MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) are observing India’s Independence Day today, August 15, as Black Day to protest India’s illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.
On the appeal of the All-Party Hurriyat Conference, protest rallies are being held on both sides of the Line of Control and around the world by Kashmiris against Indian occupation.
Anti-India demonstrations and rallies will also be held in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and Pakistan to express solidarity with the oppressed people of the occupied territory.
In Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the occupying authorities have imposed heightened security measures, particularly in Srinagar, to prevent pro-Pakistan and anti-India demonstrations, Kashmir Media Service reported.
Multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place around Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where the main Indian Independence Day function is being held. Sharpshooters have been deployed on high-rise buildings, while the stadium is being monitored through drone cameras.
Barricades have been erected at key locations across the city, and vehicles, passengers and pedestrians are being subjected to strict searches.
Meanwhile, a protest rally was held at Burhan Wani Chowk in Muzaffarabad on the call of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference. A large number of women, students, elderly people, political and social figures, and members of civil society participated in the rally.
The protesters chanted slogans against India and in support of Kashmir’s freedom, while participants later took out a rally through the city.
Speakers expressed their determination to continue supporting the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and urged the international community to play an effective role in resolving the Kashmir dispute.
The participants said that observing India’s Independence Day as Black Day was intended to convey to the international community the Kashmiri people’s opposition to India’s control over the territory and their demand for the right to self-determination.
