Kashmiris worldwide are observing a “Black Day” on October 27 to protest India’s illegal occupation of occupied Kashmir. Rallies and demonstrations are taking place in Pakistan, Azad Kashmir, and across the globe to condemn India’s actions.

A protest rally was organized by the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs to demonstrate against the illegal Indian occupation. The rally, which included Kashmiris, civilians, schoolchildren, and representatives from civil society, marched from the Foreign Office to D-Chowk. Participants carried Kashmiri and Pakistani flags, placards, and banners.

On October 27, 1947, India illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, disregarding the wishes of the Kashmiri people. This military occupation has drastically worsened the plight of Kashmiris. Every year on this date, Kashmiris reaffirm their rejection of India’s illegal occupation and call for the implementation of UN resolutions.

Historical Context:

On July 19, 1947, Kashmiris passed a resolution at Sardar Muhammad Ibrahim Khan’s residence, advocating for accession to Pakistan. This resolution highlighted the religious, geographical, cultural, and economic affinities between Kashmir and Pakistan.

However, Maharaja Hari Singh disregarded these popular demands, leading to fears among Kashmiris of accession to India. Consequently, Pashtun tribesmen entered Kashmir on October 22, 1947, to assist their Kashmiri brethren, successfully liberating significant areas of Azad Kashmir.

India’s deployment of troops in Srinagar on October 27, 1947, marks the beginning of the oppression commemorated as Black Day. The ensuing war between Pakistan and India led to a ceasefire and UN resolutions in December 1947 and 1948, respectively, calling for a plebiscite to determine the Kashmiri people’s will. However, India has yet to hold this plebiscite.

India’s disregard for UN resolutions and denial of Kashmiris’ right to self-determination led to increased oppression and brutality, forcing Kashmiri youth to take up arms. The struggle for Kashmiri freedom began in 1989.

Abolition of Articles 370 and 35A:

On August 5, 2019, India revoked Articles 370 and 35A, which granted special status to Kashmir. Three years later, India’s inability to manage the consequences, coupled with the continued Kashmiri desire for freedom, has led to intensified oppression by Indian forces.

The Indian army’s actions have made life unbearable for Kashmiris, with approximately one million troops deployed in the region.