On January 26, 2025, people in both Indian and Pakistani-administered Kashmir observe India’s Republic Day as a symbol of resistance, calling it “Black Day.” The day is not celebrated as a national holiday for Kashmiris; instead, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles they face due to the denial of their fundamental rights.
Kashmiris, both inside Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) in Pakistan, participate in strikes, protests, and rallies. These demonstrations are organized by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) and other pro-freedom groups, who have been fighting for the self-determination of the Kashmiri people for years. The protests aim to draw attention to the ongoing political and human rights situation in the region.
In IIOJK, a complete shutdown is observed. Markets remain closed, public transport is halted, and daily life comes to a standstill. This is done to show solidarity with the Kashmiris’ demand for justice and self-determination. At the same time, anti-India rallies are organized in AJK and various cities across the world, particularly where Kashmiri communities live in exile.
The key message being sent to the international community is that India has no right to celebrate its Republic Day while it continues to deny Kashmiris their basic rights. For many Kashmiris, India’s Republic Day is a stark reminder of the military occupation they live under, and the struggles they face to gain recognition for their rights.
On this day, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir becomes even more tense, as Indian forces increase their military presence throughout the region. There are more security checks, frisking, and surveillance, particularly around the locations where Republic Day functions take place. Authorities deploy additional forces in an effort to maintain control and prevent any protests or unrest. These heightened security measures often result in restrictions on movement and communication for local people.
Kashmiri leaders from the Hurriyat Conference and other organizations condemn the heavy military presence, calling it illegal and a violation of international law. They argue that the presence of Indian forces in Kashmir is unconstitutional and has been imposed without the consent of the Kashmiri people. They stress that India’s actions are an infringement on the region’s right to self-determination, which is a fundamental principle under international law.
Kashmiris are asking the world to pay attention to their plight. By observing “Black Day,” they hope to bring international focus to the situation in the region and show that their struggle for freedom and justice continues. For them, January 26 is a day not of celebration, but of protest against the ongoing military occupation and the suppression of their rights.
As the conflict continues, the people of Kashmir are determined to remind the world that their struggle for self-determination is not over. They call on the international community to recognize their right to decide their own future and to help bring an end to the ongoing human rights violations in the region.
