ISLAMABAD, FEB 9 /DNA/ – The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad, hosted the launch of the Urdu translation of ‘Tragedy in Kashmir’, the seminal historical work by Abdul Haq Suharwardy, highlighting the continued relevance of the Kashmir dispute and the importance of preserving its authentic historical narrative.

In his welcome remarks, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President, IRS, described the book as a rigorously researched account of the events surrounding the 1947 Partition and the annexation of Jammu and Kashmir. He noted that the work’s credibility is reinforced by corroboration from Indian and British sources, making it a trusted reference for scholars, researchers, and diplomats.

Mr. Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon, Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir, said the book serves as a powerful reminder of the historical injustices faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He added that its translation into Urdu would strengthen public awareness and national resolve on the Kashmir issue, particularly among younger generations.

Ms. Mushaal Hussein Mullick, Chairperson of the Peace and Culture Organization and former Advisor to the Prime Minister on Human Rights and Women Empowerment, emphasized that the Urdu translation is vital for highlighting the human dimension of the Kashmir dispute and for sustaining informed human rights advocacy.

Presenting an overview of the book, Senator Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur highlighted its academic depth and documentary evidence, noting that the Urdu translation makes this authoritative work accessible to a wider audience in Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Senator Barrister Syed Ali Zafar reflected on the legal and constitutional aspects of the Kashmir issue, stressing the need to ground contemporary discourse in verified historical facts.

Ambassador Ashraf Jehangir Qazi underscored the importance of historical accuracy in shaping sound policy and diplomacy, describing the book as a serious scholarly contribution that helps separate fact from myth.

In his address, Ambassador Sardar Masood Khan, former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, termed the Urdu translation an intellectual and national endeavour aimed at reconnecting people with the true historical context of Kashmir.

Ms. Nasim Zehra, author and senior journalist, highlighted the role of credible historical documentation in countering misinformation and historical distortion, particularly in the context of Kashmir.

Mr. Farhan Bokhari, seasoned multimedia journalist and columnist, discussed the relevance of the book for media narratives and public discourse, noting that such works help reconnect society with forgotten or overlooked historical realities.