Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and the world over were observed the Indian Independence Day (15 August 2023) as Black Day in protest against New Delhi’s illegal occupation of their homeland.

The Kashmiris across the world were staged anti-India demonstrations to draw world’s attention towards the Indian brutalities in the occupied territory.

The All Parties Hurriyat Conference leadership in its statement said India has no right to celebrate its Independence Day in IIOJK as it is holding the territory against the will of the Kashmiri people.

The leaders said India is rejoicing on its freedom but killing Kashmiris for demanding the same. Isn’t it a matter of shame for New Delhi? They pointed out that Indian armed forces has mercilessly killed over 500,000 Kashmiris in last 76 years but is still observing its Independence Day in the territory shamelessly.

New Delhi, they added, is celebrating its freedom from Britishers, today, but denying the same to the IIOJK people. .

Meanwhile, Indian troops, paramilitary and police personnel have been deployed in strength in every nook and corner of the territory, subjecting the people to immense discomfort.

A multi-layer security blanket involving helicopter reconnaissance and drone surveillance has been planned to ensure smooth conduct of India’s Independence Day celebrations in Kashmir. Elite Special Operational Group personnel assisted by Indian army and paramilitary forces have started carrying out area domination exercises around city centre Lal Chowk and Bakshi stadium, the venue of the main Independence Day function in the valley. The troops are frisking vehicles and passersby.

Posters have again appeared in different areas of the territory. The posters said that India had invaded Jammu and occupied Kashmir forcibly against the will of Kashmiri people.