Muzaffarabad: Protest rallies and demonstrations were held in various cities and towns across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) to mark the Indian Republic Day as Black Day. Thousands of citizens marched with black flags, raising anti-India slogans, and declaring their commitment to continue their resistance for freedom.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the protests were a response to India’s actions in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). In Muzaffarabad, a large rally led by Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Chaudhry Latif Akber saw protesters chanting against Indian occupation and demanding freedom for Kashmiris.

The demonstration in Muzaffarabad included notable figures such as Chairman Jammu Kashmir Pasban-e-Hurriyat Uzair Ahmed Ghazali, Minister AJK Government Kausar Taqdees Gilani, and leaders from various political and religious groups. The speakers emphasized that the global protests are a call to highlight the plight of Kashmiris under Indian rule.

A delegation from the Pak-Kashmir Solidarity Forum also participated, underscoring the widespread support across AJK. In Mirpur, a Black Day rally was organized by the Muhajir Ittehad Forum and the district administration, with speeches from former APHC-AJK chapter convener Mahmood Ahmed Saghar and others, condemning India’s actions in Jammu and Kashmir.

The leaders called on the United Nations to uphold the promise of self-determination for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and urged for a fair referendum to decide their future. Similar rallies took place in other AJK cities, including Rawalakot, Bagh, and Bhimber, where protesters reiterated their commitment to the Kashmiri freedom movement.