Rochdale Kashmiri Association celebrates annual Kashmir flag raising

Kashmir National Day flag raising ceremony

Mayor of Rochdale, councillor Mike Holly, council leader Neil Emmott, elected members of Rochdale Borough Council and members of Rochdale’s Kashmiri community gathered at Number One Riverside, Rochdale on Tuesday 24 October for the annual Azad Kashmir flag raising organised by the Rochdale Kashmiri Association.

The event began with a heartfelt recitation by Fawad Farooq. Councillor Aftab Ahmed, conducted the event emphasizing its profound historical significance.

Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Mike Holy, delivered a message of solidarity with the Kashmiri community, reinforcing the unbreakable bond between the community. Deputy mayor, Councillor Shakil Ahmed, conveyed a message on behalf of Rochdale MP Tony Lloyd, expressing unwavering support for oppressed communities worldwide.

Councillor Neil Emmott, leader of the council and Conservative leader Councillor John Taylor highlighted the importance of such events that promote unity and solidarity between local communities and expressed their sincere hopes for a peaceful resolution to global conflicts.

The event also honoured the presence of distinguished personalities including Javed Akhtar, chair of Rochdale Kashmiri Association; Councillor Iftikhar Ahmed; Councillor Ali Ahmed; Councillor Janet Emsley; Councillor Phil Massey; the deputy mayor’s consort; Councillor Rachel Massey; former mayor Mohammed Zaman; Farooq Qureshi; Kamran Majid; Saghir Ahmed and large number of men, women, and children who enjoyed the spirit of this celebration.

Following the event a reception was organised by Kashmir Youth Project (KYP) where cake was cut to mark this event and guests were served with refreshments.