Islamabad:
Kashmiris across both sides of the line with control (LOC) and around the world marked India’s 78th Friday Friday as Black Day, staging protests and events to condemn New Delhi’s coercion and illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.
The coordinated compliance – called by All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and approved by Pro -Freedom groups – unfolded under sweeping restrictions in IIOJK and on the basis of increased tension between India and Pakistan.
Reports from Srinagar described an unprecedented security presence, with heavily armed troops patrolling streets, staffing controls and blocking key crosses.
Authorities that fear large demonstrations in support of Pakistan and against Indian regime introduced motion restrictions and intensified surveillance. The whole city feels like a fortress. Even small gatherings are spreading, said media reports.
According to APHC leaders, the shutdown is part of a long-standing strategy to “suppress peaceful political dissent” in the region.
“Black Day is a reminder to the world that the Kashmir conflict remains unresolved, and our demand for self-determination is non-convertible,” an APHC spokesman said in a statement.
The observation stretched far beyond the valley. In cities, including London, Brussels, Washington DC and Toronto, staged Kashmiri Diaspora communities and their supporters with black flags, posters and banners calling for a cessation of the Indian occupation.
The protesters said the demonstrations aimed to break the international silence over human rights violations in IIOJK and press for a UN-monitored Plebiscite.
Pakistan’s political leadership also marked the day with statements confirming solidarity with the Kashmiri people. The annual observance of Black Day goes back to October 27, 1947 – the day Indian troops entered the former prince of Jammu and Kashmir after its illegal accession to India.
