NEW DELHI: As India marks its Independence Day on August 15, separatist groups in parts of the country have called for a boycott of celebrations and urged people to observe the occasion as a “Black Day”.
The calls have emerged particularly from groups operating in northeast India, where organisations linked to separatist movements have historically challenged New Delhi’s authority and demanded greater autonomy or independence.
ALSO READ: 7 Dead in North India Tunnel Accident, Rescue Efforts Continue
In Assam and neighbouring areas, security has been strengthened following boycott calls by the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent (ULFA-I) and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).
Authorities have stepped up surveillance and patrolling, particularly in sensitive districts, amid concerns over possible disruption of Independence Day events.
Separatist movements in the northeast have long used Indian national days to highlight their political demands, with boycott campaigns forming part of a broader history of opposition to New Delhi’s rule in the region.
Similar political opposition has historically accompanied Independence Day in Indian-occupied Kashmir, where pro-freedom groups have previously used shutdowns and black flags to protest Indian rule.
The boycott calls come as India observes its 80th Independence Day, marking 79 years since the end of British colonial rule in 1947.
Security arrangements have meanwhile been intensified in several parts of India. Authorities have increased deployments and surveillance around major Independence Day venues, with additional precautions introduced following security threats ahead of the celebrations.
