26 January observed as Black Day in occupied Kashmir highlighting self-determination struggle

ISLAMABAD: While India marks 26 January as Republic Day, the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir observe the day as Black Day, symbolizing their resistance against the illegal imposition of India’s constitution.

Kashmiris view 26 January as a reminder of the forced constitutional application on 26 January 1950, which denied them the right to decide their own future as outlined by the United Nations. Every year, the day sees a complete shutdown and peaceful protests across the region.

This silence is not a sign of fear but a refusal to accept governance imposed by force as democratic. The situation has worsened since 5 August 2019, when India revoked Articles 370 and 35A, stripping Kashmir of its special status, followed by lockdowns, communication blackouts, detentions, and arrests—all implemented without public consent.

Pakistan has consistently supported Kashmiris’ right to self-determination in accordance with UN resolutions, and its constitution affirms that the people of Kashmir should determine their own future under the UN Charter. Observing Black Day serves as a stark reminder to the world that sustainable peace in the region is impossible without the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.