The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (UAJK) observed Kashmir Black Day on Tuesday with a rally and a seminar to express solidarity with the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and to reaffirm their right to self-determination.

The day marks Oct 27, 1947, when Indian troops landed in Srinagar following the signing of the Instrument of Accession. Pakistanis and Kashmiris who observe the day regard the landing as the beginning of India’s illegal occupation of the territory.

Organised by the Directorate of Students Affairs, the rally set out from the Administration Block and ended at the Institute of Kashmir Studies (IKS). Former Chief Justice, Justice (retd) Syed Manzoor Hussain Gillani, Vice Chancellor UAJK Prof Nasir Jamal Khattak, university officials and students took part. Participants condemned India’s occupation, expressed solidarity with the Kashmiri people and chanted slogans in support of the freedom movement.

Addressing a seminar at the IKS afterwards, Justice Gillani spoke about the historical significance of Oct 27, 1947. He rejected India’s narrative of tribal interference and said the freedom movement in Jammu and Kashmir was indigenous. He also referred to the violence in Jammu and the suffering of Muslims during the events surrounding Partition.

He stressed the need to move beyond rhetoric and take practical steps towards a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute. He urged young people to understand the historical and political dimensions of the issue and to raise awareness about the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Prof Khattak said the youth were the future of Kashmir and must approach their responsibilities with confidence and a constructive mindset. Urging students to avoid knee-jerk reactions, he asked them to reflect on the progress made in the first quarter of the 21st century and to learn from past mistakes. He also urged them to understand themselves and take pride in their surroundings, institutions and country.

Justice Gillani answered questions from participants and presented his book, Aaina-e-Kashmir, to the vice chancellor.

Earlier, IKS Director Dr Sumaira Shafique welcomed the guests. The registrar, the controller of examinations, the director of student affairs, faculty members and students attended the seminar.