Birmingham, Across the United Kingdom, protests and demonstrations took place on India’s Republic Day to highlight the ongoing issue of India’s occupation of Kashmir. These protests, held in cities including Birmingham, Luton, Walsall, Bradford, and Glasgow, aimed to remind India of its obligations to the Kashmiri people as per promises made by the UN and the international community.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the protestors declared India’s Republic Day as Black Day. They argued that India, while celebrating its constitutional day, continues to illegally occupy Kashmir, thereby violating international law. Fahim Kayani, president of Tehreek-e-Kashmir UK, criticized India for turning into a neo-colonial power by using its constitution to justify the occupation of Kashmir. He pointed out the contradiction in celebrating a document that simultaneously is used to oppress the Kashmiri people.

Kayani also raised concerns about the violation of Kashmiri rights and dignity under the Indian constitution, calling on the international community to question the legality of India’s actions in Kashmir and whether they meet international standards. The demonstration highlighted the stark difference between the celebration of constitutional rights and the reality of the situation in Kashmir.

Muhammad Ghalib, leader of Tehreek-e-Kashmir Europe, emphasized that the issue is not with Indians celebrating their constitutional rights, but with the Indian state’s suppression of the basic rights of Kashmiris. He pointed out the commitments made by the UN to Kashmiris, including their right to self-determination, and condemned the Indian state for its actions in Kashmir that contradict the principles of international law and UN resolutions.

The protests in the UK were part of a broader effort to bring international attention to the Kashmir issue, particularly on a day when India celebrates its democratic values, contrasting sharply with the situation in the occupied territory.