Massive protests erupt across IIOJK on 6th anniversary of special status revocation
Srinagar: Massive protests erupted across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, today, marking six years since the unlawful revocation of Articles 370 and 35A by the BJP-led Indian government.
According to Kashmir Media Service, big demonstrations were reported in Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, Islamabad, Baramulla, Bandipora and other districts of the territory, with hundreds taking to the streets.
In Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and main thoroughfares, protesters attempted to march towards key public squares, but Indian police used tear gas and baton charges to obstruct movements and disperse crowds. Eyewitnesses report that demonstrators were barred from entering Lal Chowk, while Indian forces intensified cordon-and-search operations in neighbouring localities.
Political parties including the National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party, Congress and Civil Society members participated in the observance, describing August 5 a “Black Day” and demanding restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s full statehood and rights.
In Kulgam, the National Conference staged a protest rally, while PDP workers announced to lead silent candlelight vigils and blackout protests across Srinagar tonight to symbolically oppose India’s actions.
Indian forces reportedly arrested numerous demonstrators; reports of injuries from clashes with law enforcement surfaced from multiple districts. Local residents described an atmosphere of heightened tension as the anniversary triggered renewed dissent and resistance across the territory.
