Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and around the world are observing India’s Republic Day as Black Day today, protesting the ongoing denial of their democratic right to self-determination by India.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference and other pro-freedom organizations have called for this protest.
In Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the day is marked by a complete shutdown, while anti-India rallies are taking place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and key global cities.
These actions are aimed at sending a clear message to the international community that India, as the occupier of Kashmir’s fundamental rights, has no moral or legal authority to celebrate its Republic Day in the region.
Meanwhile, increased security restrictions have worsened the already dire situation for Kashmiris.
In a message from New Delhi’s notorious Tihar jail, APHC Chairman Masarrat Aalam Butt condemned India’s military presence in Jammu and Kashmir as illegal, unconstitutional, and a breach of international law.
Protest Outside Indian High Commission in Islamabad
Kashmiris across Pakistan are marking India’s Republic Day as Black Day, protesting India’s continued occupation of Kashmir.
A large protest is underway in front of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad, organized by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference. The demonstration has seen significant participation, including women and children, and the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, has joined in.
Protesters are wearing black armbands and waving black flags, symbolizing their rejection of India’s actions in Kashmir. They are vocally condemning India’s policies, with many labeling India not as a democratic nation, but as a fascist state.
The protesters also emphasized the ongoing denial of basic human rights in Indian-occupied Kashmir, calling attention to India’s oppressive tactics against the Kashmiri people.
Indian Allegations Against Pakistan Criticized
Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, has accused India of using false allegations against Pakistan to conceal its own state-sponsored terrorism.
In a press conference, he claimed that India had orchestrated killings in Canada and the United States to further its political agenda.
Haq criticized the international community for its double standards, stressing that the world could no longer accept such actions. He stated that the fight for Kashmir’s freedom would require sacrifices, as all freedom struggles are fought with blood.
The Prime Minister called for more than just moral and diplomatic support, urging concrete steps to advance Kashmir’s independence and urging the international community to take stronger action in supporting the region’s right to self-determination.
