J&K parties decry ban on paying tributes at Mazar-e-Shuhada
The Hindu
J&K political parties denied tribute at martyrs' graveyard, sparking controversy over erasing collective history and freedom of remembrance.
Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on July 13 alleged the J&K Lieutenant-Governor’s administration had denied them permission to pay tribute at the Mazar-e-Shuhada (martyrs’ graveyard) in Srinagar. They termed it an attempt to “erase collective history”.
Around 22 civilians died in police firing outside the Central Jail in Srinagar in 1931 in an uprising against the then Dogra monarchy.
The J&K National Conference (NC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), J&K Peoples Conference (JKPC), and the All Parties Hurriyat Conference alleged that their leaders and supporters were denied permission to visit the old city in Srinagar, and pay tribute at the Mazar-e-Shuhada graveyard situated in the premises of the Naqsband Sahib shrine.
“Another 13th July, Martyr’s Day, another round of locked gates and police excesses to stop people from paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives to establish a just, fair and democratic regime in J&K. InshaAllah next year we will mark 13th July with the solemnity and respect this day deserves,” NC vice president Omar Abdullah posted on social media platform X.
Prior to August 5, 2019, when the Union government ended J&K’s special status, the erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir observed July 13 as ‘Martyrs’ Day’, an official holiday. Regional leaders, police and officials would organise a special ceremony to pay tribute at the Mazar-e-Shuhada.
“The courage and selfless sacrifices of the martyrs were unparalleled. They declared that 13th July 1931 was a pivotal moment in Kashmir’s history, marking the beginning of a relentless struggle against tyranny, oppression, and despotism,” NC president Farooq Abdullah and Mr. Omar Abdullah said in a joint message.
“The sacrifices of the brave martyrs were timeless and continue to ignite the flames of justice, truth and peace in the hearts of millions,” Dr. Farooq Abdullah said.