Kashmiris across the globe, including those on both sides of the Line of Control, are observing India’s Republic Day as a Black Day today. The protests are a strong condemnation of India’s ongoing denial of Kashmiris’ democratic right to self-determination.
The call for the protest has been issued by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and various other pro-freedom organizations in the region.
In Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the day is being marked by a complete shutdown, while anti-India rallies are taking place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and other key cities around the world. These actions are intended to send a powerful message to the international community, emphasizing that India has no moral or legal authority to celebrate its Republic Day in a region where it continues to violate Kashmiris’ fundamental rights.
Meanwhile, heightened security measures have only worsened the already dire conditions faced by Kashmiris, who continue to live under India’s military occupation.
From New Delhi’s infamous Tihar jail, APHC Chairman Masarrat Aalam Butt, who is currently incarcerated, issued a statement condemning India’s military presence in Jammu and Kashmir as illegal, unconstitutional, and a breach of international law.
Protest Outside Indian High Commission in Islamabad
In Pakistan, Kashmiris are observing Black Day in protest against India’s occupation of the region. In Islamabad, a significant protest is taking place outside the Indian High Commission, organized by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference. The demonstration is being attended by a large number of people, including women and children, as well as Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
Protesters are donning black armbands and waving black flags, symbolizing their firm rejection of India’s actions in Kashmir. The demonstrators are vocal in their condemnation of India’s policies, with many asserting that India is no longer a democracy but a fascist state. They also decried the ongoing denial of basic human rights to Kashmiris and called out India for its oppressive tactics in the region.
Indian Allegations Against Pakistan: A Diversion from State Terrorism
During a press conference, Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq accused India of using false allegations against Pakistan to cover up its own state-sponsored terrorism. He claimed that India had orchestrated killings in countries like Canada and the United States to further its political agenda, attempting to shift attention away from its brutal occupation of Kashmir.
Haq also criticized the international community for its double standards, emphasizing that the world must no longer tolerate such practices. He reiterated that the fight for freedom in Kashmir would not be won easily and that it would require significant sacrifices, as freedom struggles are often fought with blood.
The Prime Minister also stressed that while moral and diplomatic support is appreciated, it would not be enough to resolve the Kashmir issue. He called for concrete actions to support Kashmir’s independence and urged the international community to take stronger measures to uphold the region’s right to self-determination.
