| Jammu and Kashmir Black Day | |
|---|---|
| Status | Observed |
| Date | 22 October |
| Frequency | Annual |
| Country | India |
| Next event | 22 October 2025 |
| 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, and to term it as an invasion and a "Black Day." [1] [2] The creation of the day has been described as a move to counter Pakistan's narrative on Kashmir. [3]
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. [4] Sehnsa was attacked on 9 October, and the following days saw more skirmishes at different locations. [4] 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. [4]
A number of awareness related events, including cultural event, have been held. [5] [6] In 2020 a number of panel discussions were held, with panelists including Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain and Amitabh Mattoo. [7] The Union Ministry of Culture and state government of Jammu and Kashmir mark the day with exhibitions and events. [7] In 2020, Raiders in Kashmir, a book written by Mohammed Akbar Khan, a retired major general of Pakistan Army, was republished. [8] Refugees also mark the day. [9] [2]