Birmingham: British Kashmiris staged a protest outside the Indian Consulate in Birmingham, marking India’s Republic Day as a “Black Day” to protest against India’s occupation of Jammu and Kashmir.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, demonstrators carried placards and flags, chanting pro-freedom and anti-India slogans. The protest was led by Fahim Kayani, President of the All Parties International Kashmir Coordination Committee (APIKCC), with notable figures like Inamul Haq, Muhammad Ghalib, and Mufti Fazal Ahmed Qadari participating.

Speakers at the event underscored that Kashmiris worldwide observe India’s Republic Day as a “Black Day” to highlight the denial of their right to self-determination. They criticized India’s actions in the region, accusing it of human rights violations.

Fahim Kayani declared that Kashmiris would continue their struggle for self-determination as per United Nations resolutions. He criticized India’s democratic claims and stated that the protest symbolized opposition to Modi’s policies and the regime in occupied Kashmir.

Kayani urged international sanctions on India, accusing it of violating UN resolutions and international law. Inamul Haq and Muhammad Ghalib also condemned India’s Republic Day celebrations, insisting the country lacks moral authority due to its actions in Kashmir.

The event drew participation from Kashmiri and Pakistani communities in Paris, who also protested against India’s policies. Participants vowed to persist until Kashmiris are granted the right to vote.

Nazir Ahmad Qureshi, Chairman of Kashmir Campaign Global, criticized India’s democratic claims and called on the international community to support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.