France: Black Day observed against IIOJK occupation

Hundreds of overseas Kashmiris and Pakistanis in France observed Black Day on Sunday, marking October 27 as a day of protest against India's occupation of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947.

The event, organised under the banner of the International Kashmir Peace Forum France (IKPFF), saw participation from Pakistani immigrants, Kashmiris, journalists, and Sikhs.

Speakers at the event unanimously pledged continued support for the Kashmiri people until a resolution is reached in line with their aspirations.

They highlighted the long and legitimate struggle of the Kashmiri people for more than seven decades to achieve the right to self-determination.

Addressing the event, President IKPFF Zahid Iqbal Hashmi said that peace in South Asia hinged on a peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

He described October 27, 1947, as one of the darkest days for Kashmiris, which marked the beginning of the stifling of the legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiris to determine their own destiny by Indian forces.

Hashmi further stated that since 1947, India has stripped Kashmiris of their democratic rights and now, New Delhi was building a huge military setup in the occupied valley to crush the ongoing political struggle of the Kashmiris.

He appealed to the world community to come forward and settle the Kashmir dispute as per the aspirations of the people of IIOJK.

Apart from Pakistani nationals, Sikh leaders also addressed the event, with slogans being raised against India and in favour of Kashmir's freedom struggle. Children also performed on stage to national songs.