Kashmir Marks India’s Independence Day as Black Day

Today, Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and around the world are observing India’s Independence Day as a Black Day. They aim to highlight the ongoing dispute over Jammu and Kashmir and signal to the international community that India has no right to celebrate the day in the region.

In Jammu and Kashmir, a complete shutdown is in effect. Residents are displaying black flags on rooftops, street poles, and trees. The valley appears deserted due to the strike.

The Indian authorities have transformed the Jammu and Kashmir Valley into a heavily fortified zone. Checkpoints and barricades are set up at major locations. A comprehensive security setup, including helicopter patrols and drone surveillance, is in place to prevent anti-India protests.

Elite Special Operational Group personnel, alongside the Indian Army and paramilitary forces, are conducting area domination exercises around Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and Bakhshi Stadium. These areas host the primary Independence Day celebrations.

Protest rallies are also taking place in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and major global capitals. Protesters, waving black flags, are chanting slogans such as “Go India Go Back,” “We Want Freedom,” “Wake Up UN,” and “Kashmir Seeks Attention.

In Brussels, a demonstration is planned in front of the Indian Embassy to mark the day as Black Day. The Kashmir Council Europe is organizing this event, expecting a large turnout of Kashmiris and their supporters. These protests aim to draw international attention to what is described as Indian brutality in the occupied region. The observance of Black Day is a symbolic act of defiance against India’s governance of Jammu and Kashmir.