Jammu and Kashmir Black Day | |
---|---|
Status | Observed |
Date(s) | 22 October |
Frequency | Annual |
Country | India |
Next event | 22 October 2024 |
Participants | Government of India, civil society, refugees |
Major events | Awareness related events, posters, banners, hoardings, panel discussion, exhibitions, publications |
Other names | Jammu and Kashmir Invasion Day |
Jammu and Kashmir Black Day is an annual commemoration established in the Republic of India by the Narendra Modi-led government on 22 October 2020 with the stated aim of highlighting Pakistan's role in the 1947 Kashmir conflict, to term it as an invasion and a "Black Day."[1][2]
According to Indian sources, the invasion did not start on 22 October. The first skirmish, comprising 2 JAK Infantry, took place at Owen Pattan on 8–9 October 1947.[3] Sehnsa was attacked on 9 October, and the following days saw more skirmishes at different locations.[3] However, 22 October is the day of observance of the invasion due to the so-called importance of the Kashmir valley, the day the Instrument of Accession was signed, and political decisions taken.[3]
A number of awareness related events, including cultural event, have been held.[4][5] In 2020 a number of panel discussions were held, with panelists including Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Amitabh Mattoo.[6] The Union Ministry of Culture and state government of Jammu and Kashmir mark the day with exhibitions and events.[6] In 2020, Raiders in Kashmir, a book written by Mohammed Akbar Khan, a retired major general of Pakistan Army, was republished.[7] Refugees also mark the day.[8][2]