Pakistan Independence Day Marked as 'Black Day' In PoK Amid Growing Protests & Unrest

As Pakistan prepares to celebrate its 77th Independence Day on August 14, a wave of dissent and protest is sweeping across its territories. Notably, in Pakistan occupied Kashmir ( PoK ), a significant movement has emerged that intends to observe this day as a " Black Day " – a somber reminder of the alleged atrocities committed by the Pakistani government. This growing dissent is emblematic of the rising discontent among the people against the establishment.

Reports from the region highlight the determination of political activists and youth organizations in PoK to mark the occasion with protests against the perceived excesses of the Pakistani authorities. This symbolic gesture of observing a "Black Day" underscores their dissatisfaction with the government's actions, and it serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the population in these areas.

Adding to the tensions, a disturbing incident has unfolded in Balochistan , a troubled province in southern Pakistan. Balochistan has long been a hotspot of conflict and unrest, and this year, its people have also chosen to observe August 14 as a "Black Day." This decision comes in the aftermath of an attack on Chinese engineers working on the Beijing-financed Gwadar Port. The attack, carried out by the Balochistan Liberation Army 's Majeed Brigade , serves as a testament to the deep-seated conflicts and grievances present in the region.

In PoK, reports have emerged of arrests and torture inflicted upon individuals accused of sharing anti-Pakistan sentiments on social media. Police in the Muzaffarabad district reportedly detained several individuals, forcing them to remove their critical posts and replace them with statements supporting the Pakistani establishment. These actions are seen as an attempt to suppress dissent and reinforce loyalty to the government.

Interestingly, these developments coincide with Pakistan's celebration of its 77th anniversary of independence. However, the situation in PoK and Balochistan paints a complex picture, one marked by political repression and opposition to the government. The Pakistan flag may be flying high on government buildings, but the undercurrents of discontent and disagreement are palpable.

The timing of these protests cannot be divorced from the larger geopolitical context. The revocation of Article 370 by the Indian government in August 2019 has reshaped the dynamics in the region. The development and progress witnessed in the Indian territories of Jammu and Kashmir have shone a spotlight on the perceived oppressive role of Pakistan in these occupied regions. The youth in PoK, no longer content with the status quo, are demanding an end to Pakistan's influence.

This brewing discontent is not limited to the occupied territories alone. The Baloch people, who have a history of resistance against the Pakistani state, are resolute in marking August 14 as a "Black Day." The memory of Balochistan's occupation in 1947 by the Pakistan Army looms large, fueling sentiments of resentment and defiance.

As the "Black Day" protests gain momentum, they serve as a reminder that the quest for freedom and self-determination cannot be stifled indefinitely. The clashes of ideology and governance are playing out on the stage of history, and the implications are far-reaching. These events in PoK and Balochistan underscore the importance of addressing the root causes of unrest and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to long-standing conflicts.

Ultimately, the decision to observe Pakistan's Independence Day as a "Black Day" is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a reflection of the voices of those who seek change, justice, and a say in their own destinies. The future of these regions, intertwined with complex political dynamics, remains uncertain, but what is clear is that the call for change will continue to resonate, regardless of the challenges that lie ahead.