Srinagar: Kashmiris around the world, including those on both sides of the Line of Control, are observing India’s Republic Day today as Black Day to emphasize what they describe as New Delhi’s ongoing denial of their UN-recognized right to self-determination.
According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and other pro-independence groups have called for protests to mark the day. In Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, a strike is being observed, while rallies and protests are taking place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan. Supporters of the cause are also holding demonstrations in global capitals to draw attention to what they term as Indian state terrorism in the region.
Meanwhile, authorities have heavily fortified the Kashmir Valley and parts of the Jammu region, imposing strict restrictions and deploying Indian troops and police personnel throughout the area. Srinagar and Jammu cities have been especially affected, with large numbers of troops stationed at key venues for Republic Day functions, such as a cricket stadium in Sonawar, Srinagar, and Maulana Azad Stadium in Jammu. Roads leading to these locations have been sealed with barbed wire and barricades, while sharp-shooters are positioned on high-rise buildings. Security forces are using drones and CCTV to monitor the movement of people closely.
New bunkers and barricades have been established in different parts of the territory to prevent anti-India demonstrations. Indian forces are also conducting surprise vehicle checks throughout the occupied region. In addition, posters have appeared in Srinagar and other areas of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, condemning India’s control and urging the United Nations to fulfill its promise of a plebiscite in the region. These posters, displayed by Hurriyat organizations, carry messages such as “Indian Republic Day is a Black Day for Kashmiris” and “UN must act to deliver justice to Kashmir.”
Organizers of these demonstrations aim to communicate to the international community that India, as the occupier of Kashmiris’ fundamental rights, lacks the moral and legal authority to celebrate its Republic Day in the disputed territory.
The post Kashmiris Mark Indian Republic Day as Black Day appeared first on pakistannewsgazette.com.
The post Kashmiris Mark Indian Republic Day as Black Day appeared first on AsiaNet-Pakistan.