SRINAGAR: Kashmiris will observe October 27 as a Black Day to protest against the Indian occupation of the valley.
According to the Kashmir Media Service, October 27 marks the historic day when Indian forces entered the disputed region, an action that has compounded the suffering of the Kashmiri people of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Each year, the people of occupied Kashmir assert their rejection of Indian occupation on this date.
Background of the Issue
On July 19, 1947, a significant resolution was passed by Kashmiris at the residence of Sardar Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, advocating for Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to Pakistan based on cultural, religious, and economic ties. However, Maharaja Hari Singh disregarded this call. On October 22, 1947, Pashtun tribesmen, along with Pakistani forces, entered Kashmir to support local aspirations for independence, eventually securing what is now known as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K).
On August 5, 2019, India revoked Articles 370 and 35A, which had granted special status to the region. The arrival of Indian forces in Srinagar on October 27, 1947, marked the beginning of what Kashmiris describe as an era of subjugation.
Following the entry of Indian troops, Pakistan and India engaged in war in 1948 over the region. The UN called for a referendum to allow Kashmiris to determine their future, as requested by Indian leader Jawaharlal Nehru. However, this referendum has never been held.
Repeal of Articles 370 and 35A
The repeal of Articles 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, further intensified unrest in the region, leading to an increased military presence and reports of human rights violations.
Election Controversies
The upcoming general elections are viewed by many as part of India’s strategy to cement its control over the region. Numerous Kashmiris, along with Hurriyat leaders, advocate for a peaceful resolution under UN supervision, asserting that a true solution requires a referendum. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent Hurriyat leader, emphasized the importance of peaceful negotiation, while Amnesty International continues to highlight alleged human rights violations in the region.
Global Attention
Amnesty International has expressed serious concerns regarding India’s human rights record in Kashmir, calling for the repeal of oppressive laws and better protections for journalists. Reports indicate that the international community is closely monitoring India’s policies, particularly in light of its aspirations for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
In solidarity, Pakistan has also declared October 27 as Black Day, reaffirming its support for the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination and highlighting their ongoing hardships under Indian military occupation. The National Assembly of Pakistan passed a resolution to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people, demanding that the Kashmir issue be resolved according to their aspirations and in line with UN resolutions.
