KP Government Announces Public Holiday. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has officially announced a public holiday across the province on February 5, 2026, in observance of Kashmir Solidarity Day. The decision reflects the provincial government’s continued support for the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir and aligns with similar announcements made at the federal level.
According to an official notification issued by the Additional Chief Secretary (General), all government and semi-government institutions under the administrative control of the KP government will remain closed on this day. The announcement applies to offices, educational institutions, and public-sector organizations across the province.
Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed every year on February 5 in Pakistan to express moral, political, and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri people and their right to self-determination.
One-Minute Silence to Be Observed Across KP
As part of the official observance, the KP government has directed that a one-minute silence will be observed at 10:00 am on February 5. This symbolic act is intended to honor the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people and to express unity with those affected by the ongoing conflict.
Government departments, educational institutions, and public offices have been instructed to ensure compliance with this directive. Sirens may be sounded at the designated time to mark the beginning of the silence, as has been practiced in previous years.
Province-Wide Solidarity Activities Planned
The provincial government has also confirmed that various activities and programs will be organized throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day.
These activities are expected to include:
- Solidarity walks and rallies
- Seminars and awareness sessions
- Special prayers in mosques
- Speeches highlighting the Kashmir issue
- Educational programs in schools and colleges
The aim of these events is to raise awareness about the Kashmir dispute and to reaffirm Pakistan’s stance on supporting the Kashmiri people through peaceful and diplomatic means.
Offices and Institutions to Remain Closed
The public holiday applies to a wide range of institutions under KP’s jurisdiction. According to the official statement, the following will remain closed on February 5:
- Provincial government offices
- Autonomous and semi-autonomous bodies
- Government corporations
- Public and semi-public educational institutions
This includes schools, colleges, universities, and training institutes managed or overseen by the KP government. Private institutions may decide independently whether to observe the holiday.
Federal Government Also Declares Nationwide Holiday
The KP government’s decision follows a similar announcement by the federal government, which has also declared February 5, 2026, as a nationwide public holiday for Kashmir Solidarity Day.
This means that all federal offices across Pakistan will remain closed, ensuring uniform observance of the day throughout the country. The coordinated decision highlights the importance Pakistan places on Kashmir Solidarity Day as a national cause.
Pakistan Stock Exchange to Remain Closed
In a related development, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has announced that it will remain closed on Thursday, February 5, 2026, due to the public holiday.
In an official circular issued to market participants, the exchange informed TRE certificate holders, investors, and staff that:
- All trading activities will be suspended
- No clearing or settlement operations will take place
- PSX offices will remain closed for the day
Trading will resume as per normal schedule on the next working day.
Impact on Financial and Business Activities
The closure of the Pakistan Stock Exchange means that stock market trading will be paused nationwide for one full day. While this is standard practice on public holidays, investors and traders are advised to plan their transactions accordingly.
Banks and financial institutions usually follow public holiday notifications issued by the State Bank of Pakistan. Customers are encouraged to confirm branch operations in advance, especially for time-sensitive transactions.
Online banking services and ATMs are expected to function as usual.
Significance of Kashmir Solidarity Day
Kashmir Solidarity Day holds deep political and emotional significance in Pakistan. The day is dedicated to:
- Highlighting alleged human rights violations in Kashmir
- Supporting the Kashmiri people’s struggle
- Reinforcing Pakistan’s diplomatic stance on Kashmir
- Demonstrating national unity on the issue
Every year, government institutions, political parties, civil society organizations, and the general public participate in events to mark the occasion.
Public Response and Expectations
Public reaction to the announcement has generally been positive, with many citizens welcoming the holiday and planned solidarity activities. Educational institutions, in particular, see the day as an opportunity to educate students about the Kashmir issue through seminars and discussions.
At the same time, authorities have urged the public to observe the day peacefully and responsibly, ensuring that all activities remain within legal and ethical boundaries.
Administrative Preparations Across KP
Provincial departments have been directed to finalize arrangements ahead of February 5. District administrations are expected to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to ensure smooth conduct of events and maintain public order.
Special instructions may also be issued regarding traffic management, security arrangements, and emergency services to ensure that essential services remain operational.
Conclusion
The KP government’s decision to declare February 5, 2026, a public holiday reflects Pakistan’s continued commitment to the Kashmir cause. With province-wide closures, solidarity events, and a coordinated national observance, Kashmir Solidarity Day remains a powerful symbol of unity, awareness, and peaceful support for the Kashmiri people.
