India’s Independence Day in Kashmir

Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and the world over observed the Indian Independence Day, 15 August, as Black Day to convey to the world that the people of Kashmir have yet to exercise their birth right to self-determination.

Call for the observance of the Day had been given by the APHC Chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, veteran Kashmiri Hurriyet leader, Syed Ali Gilani and all other liberation leaders and groups.

The occupation authorities had made unprecedented arrangements to thwart anti-India protest demonstrations on the day, imposing curfew in several cities and towns. Police and paramilitary troops had sealed all the roads leading to the Bakhshi Stadium in Srinagar, the main venue for the official function, while sharp shooters had been deployed on the top of various buildings in different areas in the city.