MUZAFFARABAD: Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and across the world are observing Kashmir Martyrs’ Day today (Monday) to pay tribute to the twenty-two martyrs of July 13, 1931, and all other Kashmiri martyrs.
The observance marks the death anniversary of the 22 unarmed Kashmiris who were shot dead outside Srinagar’s Central Jail on July 13, 1931, during protests over the trial of Abdul Qadeer, who had urged people to defy Dogra rule. The incident is widely regarded by many Kashmiris as a defining moment in the region’s political history.
Authorities and organizers in Azad Kashmir said special prayers, seminars and rallies would be held at district and tehsil headquarters, including Mirpur, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Bagh, Rawalakot, Bhimber, Haveli, Neelum Valley and Hattian Bala to pay tribute to the martyrs.
The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has declared a public holiday to facilitate public participation in the commemorative events.
Organizers said participants would renew calls for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with the aspirations of the people of the region and international commitments.
They also said prayer gatherings and visits to martyrs’ graveyards were planned in several areas.
According to Kashmir Media Service, despite threats from the Indian BJP regime and its forces, a complete shutdown will be observed in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir today.
The call for the strike has been given by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and is supported by all pro-freedom leaders and organizations.
The APHC has also appealed to the people to march toward the Martyrs’ Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib in Srinagar to offer Fateha for the departed souls.
