Kashmiris living on both sides of the Line of Control, including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), and across the world, observed Indian Republic Day on Monday as a black day. They marked the occasion to express rejection of Indian rule and to draw global attention to the need for an early and peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
Kashmiris observed the day on the call of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, with full support from the government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. They used the occasion to reaffirm their dissociation from India and to protest what they described as decades of political subjugation.
In IIOJK, a complete strike was observed to mark Indian Republic Day as a black day. Shops remained closed and normal life was disrupted as people protested against India’s continued control over the region.
Observers said the day symbolised collective protest against India’s long-standing control of large parts of the internationally recognised disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Protesters also highlighted what they termed persistent human rights violations, including the killing of civilians, in the occupied valley.
Kashmiris observe Indian Republic Day as a black day every year to highlight alleged abuses by Indian forces and to remind the international community of the unresolved status of the Kashmir dispute, which dates back 78 years.
Participants said the observance also aimed to expose what they called India’s hostile attitude toward Kashmiris, including the denial of their right to self-determination. They urged the world community to play its role in ensuring a peaceful settlement of the dispute in accordance with international norms and resolutions.