Muzaffarabad: On what is marked as India’s Independence Day, the Democratic Hurriyat Front hosted a seminar in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, calling the day a ‘Black Day’ to protest against Indian occupation.

According to Kashmir Media Service announcement issued on 16 August 2024, the seminar drew notable figures including Javed Badhanvi, Minister of Rehabilitation of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, who attended as the chief guest, and was presided over by Chaudhry Shaheen Iqbal, Chairman of the Democratic Hurriyat Front. The gathering aimed to voice the unyielding stance of Kashmiris against Indian rule and their continued struggle for freedom.

Speakers at the event labeled India’s control over Jammu and Kashmir as illegal and immoral, citing the relentless sacrifices made by the Kashmiri people in pursuit of independence. They highlighted the failure of Indian forces to quell the spirit of freedom among the Kashmiri population, asserting that India is engaged in a futile effort to maintain its grip over the region.

Chaudhry Shaheen Iqbal, in his address, expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s consistent support of the Kashmir cause, both politically and diplomatically, on international stages.

The seminar also featured speeches from several activists and leaders including Mushtaq-ul-Islam, Gauhar Kashmiri, and others, who reiterated the community’s commitment to continue their struggle until the end of Indian occupation.