Authorities have imposed a sweeping lockdown across the territory, deploying multi-layered security grids and additional checkpoints, as Kashmiris mark India’s Republic Day as a ‘Black Day’.

Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and across the globe are participating in the observance today.

According to Kashmir Media Service, anti-India protest demonstrations and rallies have been organised in various world capitals, as well as in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan.

The day is intended to convey the message that participants consider India a usurper of their fundamental rights and believe it has no legitimacy to celebrate the occasion in the territory.

In preparation for Republic Day, occupation authorities significantly increased their presence, with residents subject to repeated identity checks throughout the region.