Kashmiris To Observe Indian Repbulic Day As Black Day

Srinagar, Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and across the world will observe Indian Republic Day, tomorrow (January 26), as Black Day to remind the international community that IndiaIs continued denial of KashmirisI right to self-determination is contrary to its claim of being a democratic republic.

According to Kashmir Media Service, call for the observance of the Day has been given by the All Parties Hurriyet Conference, veteran Kashmiri Hurriyet leader, Syed Ali Gilani, the High Court Bar Association and other pro-liberation leaders and organisations. The day will be marked with a complete strike in occupied Kashmir with all business establishments, offices, banks and courts remaining closed. Meanwhile, the authorities have sounded a high alert across the Kashmir Valley in the run-up to the Indian Republic Day, tomorrow (January 26). The deployment of Indian police and CRPF troopers has been strengthened around the Bakhshi Staium, the main venue of official function, and other vital installations across the Valley. Hundreds of police and CRPF troopers have virtually taken over the roads, lanes and by-lanes of Srinagar. The armoured vehicles of the police and CRPF are seen on the junctions and interjections of the roads across the city. More CCTV cameras have been installed. The vehicles coming from other areas are being checked thoroughly at Parimpora and Pantha Choke before entering into the city. The police and CRPF personnel are carrying out surprise checks of light vehicles and identity cards of the pedestrians are also being checked.