Kashmiris across the world, including those on both sides of the Line of Control, observed India’s 78th Independence Day as a ‘Black Day’ to protest against India’s occupation of their homeland.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) leaders, currently imprisoned in Tihar Jail, New Delhi, called on Kashmiris to send a clear message that they reject India’s control and demand the right to self-determination. They urged the international community to pressure India into recognizing this right.
The leaders reiterated their commitment to pursuing the demand for a plebiscite in Kashmir to its logical conclusion, stating that India has no legal or ethical right to celebrate its freedom in occupied Kashmir. They emphasized that India’s occupation is a violation of UN resolutions and international law.
In response, Indian authorities have increased restrictions across Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) ahead of India’s Independence Day celebrations.
Meanwhile, Kashmiri refugees in Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu, and Kashmir held a protest against India, gathering at Azadi Chowk. Anti-India rallies and demonstrations are being held in various cities and towns on both sides of the Line of Control. Participants of these protests are wearing black bands to express their opposition to India’s presence in Kashmir.