London, 06 August (H.S.): A protest was held outside the Indian High Commission in London on Wednesday to mark the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir. The demonstrators also raised Kashmir-related slogans and observed the day as Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir (Kashmir Exploitation Day).

On August 5, 2019, the Government of India, through a Presidential Order, effectively revoked most provisions of Articles 370 and 35A, ending the erstwhile special status of Jammu and Kashmir. Since then, the region has witnessed significant administrative changes and, according to the Indian government, an improved security environment.

According to Pakistan-based Dunya News, protesters waved Pakistani and Kashmir flags during the demonstration. Some participants declared that Pakistan would continue its claim over Kashmir.

The protesters also alleged that the Indian High Commission in London was involved in anti-Pakistan and anti-Kashmir activities.

Demonstrators accused India of human rights violations in Kashmir and called on the international community to take notice of the situation. The protest was attended by members of the British-Kashmiri and Pakistani communities.

Such demonstrations, supported by pro-Pakistan groups, have been organised annually on August 5 since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar