Muzaffarabad/Azad Jammu and Kashmir: Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and across the globe are today observing Kashmir Martyrs’ Day to honor those who fell on July 13, 1931, and all subsequent Kashmiris who have sacrificed their lives for freedom. The day marks a pivotal moment in Kashmiri history, commemorating the 22 individuals killed by Dogra forces during a protest outside Srinagar Central Jail.
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has reiterated its call for a complete shutdown across Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) today to mark the solemn occasion. This call has been supported by various pro-freedom leaders and organizations, who have also urged people to march towards the Martyrs’ Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib in Srinagar. However, authorities in Srinagar have denied permission to political parties to visit the Mazar-e-Shuhada, maintaining restrictions that have been in place since 2019. Senior APHC leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has also been placed under house arrest, preventing him from offering congregational Friday prayers and participating in today’s commemorations.
In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and major capitals worldwide, a series of rallies, seminars, and conferences are being organized to honor the martyrs. In Muzaffarabad, the Kashmir Liberation Cell, in collaboration with the APHC AJK Chapter, is arranging a public gathering followed by a rally to pay tribute to the sacrifices. Pasban-e-Hurriyat has also organized a protest rally at Burhan Wani Shaheed Chowk, demonstrating continued resolve.
As a mark of respect to the “Shuhada” (martyrs), a smartly turned out police contingent will present a salute at the Shuhada Monument in Muzaffarabad.
The July 13, 1931, incident is considered a significant turning point in Kashmir’s political awakening, laying the groundwork for subsequent movements demanding rights and self-determination against autocratic rule.
