Public holiday expected across Pakistan

WEB DESK: As February approaches, public interest is once again growing around whether Kashmir Solidarity Day on February 5, 2026, will be observed as a public holiday across Pakistan.

Traditionally, the federal government declares February 5 as a nationwide public holiday to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day. Each year, the Cabinet Division issues an official notification listing public and optional holidays, and Kashmir Day has consistently been included in past calendars. A formal notification for 2026 is expected closer to the date, as per established practice.

Once notified, the holiday would apply to government offices, educational institutions, and most public-sector organisations, while the operational status of banks, essential services, and critical institutions would be clarified separately through official directives.

Kashmir Solidarity Day is observed annually across Pakistan and by Kashmiris around the world. The day serves as a symbol of unity and support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), reaffirming Pakistan’s longstanding political, moral, and diplomatic stance on the Kashmir issue. Rallies, seminars, human chains, and special programs are typically held nationwide to highlight the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

The final status of the February 5, 2026 holiday will be confirmed once the Cabinet Division issues its official notification, after which clarity will be provided regarding closures of schools, universities, banks, and other institutions across the country.