Web Desk: Kashmiris across Azad Kashmir and worldwide observed India’s Republic Day on Monday as a “Black Day,” staging demonstrations to highlight their long-standing grievances. Local organisers said protests took place in the capital and in towns of varying sizes across the region.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and other groups led marches and public gatherings. Speakers at the events told participants that the day was intended to send a message to the international community that, in their view, India’s policies in occupied Jammu and Kashmir violate basic rights and democratic principles. Organisers also emphasised decades of violence, property damage, detentions, and loss of life, noting that many families have been affected by the ongoing conflict.
By taking to the streets, groups aimed to maintain global attention on Kashmir and urged the international community to press for the implementation of United Nations resolutions on the dispute.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Indian authorities imposed a strict lockdown across Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Republic Day. Security measures included intensified searches, frisking, aerial surveillance and the deployment of large numbers of armed forces, significantly disrupting daily life.
The APHC called for a full shutdown in occupied Jammu and Kashmir and anti-India demonstrations in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and major world capitals. In response, Indian authorities established a multi-layered security grid across the Valley, deploying police and paramilitary personnel at sensitive locations, roads, markets, and public spaces. Checkpoints were increased and residents faced repeated identity checks and frisking.
Kashmir Inspector General of Police V. K. Birdi said elaborate security arrangements were put in place around Srinagar’s Bakshi Stadium, where the main Republic Day ceremony was held. He added that drone surveillance complemented ground-level measures. Birdi said, “Sensitive areas in Kashmir have seen enhanced security, including road blockades, vehicle checks, security cordons, and search operations.” Vehicle inspections and identity verifications intensified across all 20 districts, including Srinagar, Gurez, Uri, Karnah and Tangdhar, disrupting civilian movement and traffic near the Line of Control. Night patrolling and raids were also increased as preventive measures.
Advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and high-resolution CCTV cameras, were deployed at official venues, while additional checkpoints were established in towns and district headquarters, particularly at key entry points.
Kashmiris marked the occasion under tight restrictions, viewing the day as a reminder of prolonged repression and denial of political rights in the occupied territory. Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, called on the international community to fulfill its legal and moral responsibilities and ensure a just resolution to the Kashmir issue.
In a statement issued ahead of Republic Day, the Prime Minister said Kashmiris observe January 26 as a Black Day to protest India’s occupation of their homeland. Referring to ongoing bloodshed, human rights violations, and civil restrictions, he argued that India’s claims of normalcy in the region were misleading.
Rathore criticised draconian laws and restrictions imposed in occupied Kashmir, describing them as violations of international law and democratic values. Highlighting developments since August 5, 2019, he said India’s unilateral actions intensified the military presence and imposed unjustified constraints on civil liberties.
Despite the situation, Rathore emphasised that India’s measures had failed to weaken the resolve of Kashmiris. Reiterating their commitment to the liberation struggle, he said the people of Kashmir will continue seeking their right to self-determination in accordance with United Nations resolutions until it is realized.
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