RAWALPINDI: Kashmir Black Day was observed in Rawalpindi and Murree on Tuesday through rallies, seminars, solidarity walks and other activities to condemn India’s occupation of Jammu and Kashmir and express support for the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

The Rawalpindi Arts Council (RAC), in collaboration with the All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association (APPSMA), organised a programme attended by Additional Assistant Commissioner Faizan Ahmad as chief guest. Senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader Shamim Shal, APPSMA President Mohammad Abrar and divisional president Aamir Nawaz also attended.

The programme aimed to highlight the struggle of the people of Indian-held Jammu and Kashmir and raise awareness about their sacrifices and demand for freedom.

Addressing participants, Mr Ahmad said the determination and sacrifices of the Kashmiri people must not be forgotten. He stressed the need to educate younger generations about the Kashmir issue and support the legitimate rights of Kashmiris.

Students presented tableaus depicting the hardships and resilience of the Kashmiri people, participated in speech competitions and sang Kashmiri songs conveying solidarity. A one-minute silence was observed in remembrance of those martyred in the conflict.

A photographic exhibition showcasing Kashmir and its people’s struggle was also arranged, while a documentary highlighted the historical background of the dispute and challenges faced by Kashmiris.

The participants later joined a solidarity walk, reaffirming their support for peace, justice and self-determination in Kashmir.

RAC Director Mohammad Shakoor said Kashmir Black Day reminded the public of the continuing hardships faced by Kashmiris and the importance of keeping their struggle in public awareness. He appreciated the participation of students and educational institutions and thanked APPSMA for its cooperation.

Meanwhile, Rawalpindi Women University (RWU) observed the day by holding a seminar titled “Black Day: The Call of Kashmir” and a solidarity walk.

Faculty members, administrative officers and a large number of students participated in the activities. Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Tayyaba Zarif said the day symbolised the Kashmiri people’s decades-long struggle, sacrifices and determination to secure their right to self-determination.

She highlighted restrictions on fundamental rights, the continued military presence and human rights violations in Indian-held Jammu and Kashmir, calling for sustained international attention.

Guest speaker Haseeb Jamal of Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University said Pakistanis stood in solidarity with Kashmiris, who had endured decades of atrocities since the Indian occupation in 1947. He expressed concern over the failure to implement United Nations resolutions seeking a settlement of the dispute based on the wishes of the people of Kashmir.

In Murree, Kashmir Black Day was also marked on Tuesday. On the instructions of Deputy Commissioner Agha Zaheer Abbas Shirazi, a solidarity walk was organised along The Mall. District administration officials and heads of various government departments attended the event.

Published in Dawn, October 28th, 2026