Accession Day is observed in Jammu and Kashmir, the northernmost state of India, every October 26. This annual holiday commemorates the day in 1947 when Jammu and Kashmir joined the Dominion of India. The region, which was a princely state under British rule, faced a critical decision during the partition of British India. Initially, Maharaja Hari Singh sought to remain independent but ultimately signed the Instrument of Accession after an invasion by Pashtun tribes from Pakistan. This document was signed on October 26, 1947, and took effect the following day. The anniversary is marked by celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir, while separatist leaders refer to it as Black Day, highlighting the ongoing tensions regarding the region's status.