ISLAMABAD: Kashmiris in Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and around the world are observing Black Day to mark 79 years since Indian troops entered Srinagar on October 27, 1947. A shutdown and protest demonstrations have been announced in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, while Kashmiri communities in various countries are holding rallies to draw international attention to the long-standing Kashmir dispute.
Kashmiris observe October 27 every year as Black Day, calling for their right to self-determination in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions.
In Muzaffarabad, a march towards the Line of Control is scheduled to be held along Srinagar Highway. Protest activities against Indian rule are also planned in Hattian Bala.
Pakistani Leadership Reaffirms Support for Kashmiris
In his message on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said the Kashmir dispute remained unresolved despite nearly eight decades having passed. He stressed the need for effective international efforts and reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue to raise the voice of the Kashmiri people at every international forum.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz described October 27 as a dark chapter in history, saying the Kashmir dispute had become an international issue and that Pakistan stood with the Kashmiri people.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said the dispute should be resolved through dialogue in accordance with United Nations resolutions.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah condemned Indian rule in the disputed territory and urged the international community to take effective measures to protect human rights in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.
Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said the Kashmir dispute should be resolved in accordance with the aspirations of the Kashmiri people and UN resolutions. He also reaffirmed the solidarity of the people of Pakistan and Balochistan with Kashmiris.
Amir Muqam Says Kashmiri Freedom Aspirations Remain Strong
Addressing a Black Day rally in Islamabad, Federal Minister Amir Muqam said the Kashmiri people’s desire for freedom had not diminished despite Indian actions. He said attempts to suppress the Kashmiri people only intensified their yearning for freedom.
On Black Day, Kashmiris renewed their appeal to the international community to play an effective role in achieving a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir dispute and ensuring the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
