JAMMU/LADAKH, Oct 20: The Bharat Tibet Sahyog Manch (BTSM) observed Black Day across the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh on October 20 to commemorate the beginning of China’s military offensive against India in 1962 and to pay tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and valour of Indian soldiers who defended the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
As part of the observance, BTSM members and activists tied black ribbons around their wrists as a symbolic expression of protest against Chinese aggression. Meetings were also organised at various places across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, where participants reflected on the historical significance of the 1962 India-China War, the importance of national security, and the need to remain vigilant in safeguarding India’s territorial integrity and national interests.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Vivek Sharma, State President of BTSM for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, emphasised that national unity, public awareness, and collective responsibility are essential to protecting India’s sovereignty and security. He called upon the people of India to remain united and vigilant in the face of challenges to the country’s territorial integrity.
Dr. Sharma expressed concern over China’s policies towards India and stressed the importance of assessing its actions and diplomatic commitments in the light of historical experience. Referring to the 1962 war, he stated that the events of that period should serve as a reminder of the need to strengthen national defence, remain strategically prepared, and safeguard India’s interests through a firm and well-considered foreign policy.
He further appealed to citizens to support the call for a boycott of Chinese-made products and promote the use of indigenous goods. He urged people to support Indian manufacturers, local industries, and domestic enterprises, observing that economic self-reliance is an important component of national security. According to him, responsible consumer choices can contribute to strengthening the Indian economy and reducing dependence on foreign products.
“The people of India must stand united in protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. We must learn from history, strengthen our economic self-reliance, and encourage the use of Indian products. If China continues to strengthen its economic and strategic capabilities while pursuing expansionist policies, India must remain alert, united, and prepared to safeguard its national interests,” Dr. Sharma said.
BTSM members reiterated that the observance of Black Day was intended to raise public awareness about the historical events of 1962 and reinforce a spirit of patriotism, national solidarity, and responsibility towards the country. They emphasised that India’s strength lies in the unity of its people, the dedication and sacrifice of its armed forces, and the collective determination to protect the nation’s interests.
The organisation also appealed to the youth to remain informed about national and international developments, support indigenous initiatives, and actively contribute to building a strong, self-reliant, and secure India.
The Black Day observance concluded with a renewed pledge to uphold India’s sovereignty, honour the sacrifices of the armed forces, promote indigenous products, and strengthen national unity across Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Among those who were present in the meeting at various places Dr Rajesh Sharma, Dr Vikrant Singh, Dr Rohit Sharma, Rajinder Sadotra, Dr Mukesh Sharma, Alok Mahajan, Kulveer Katal, Vishal Sharma, Mushtaq Khandey, Dr Charanjeet Singh, Ramneek Singh, Dr Sonam Jodan and others.