The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is very concerned about the fear surrounding this year’s July 13 Martyrs Day observance in Jammu and Kashmir. The authorities sealed access to Srinagar’s Martyrs Graveyard. Put party president Mehbooba Mufti under house arrest before the anniversary.
Restrictions Imposed Ahead of the Anniversary
A day before July 13, authorities sealed all routes to the Martyrs Graveyard in Srinagar’s city area. They imposed restrictions in five police station areas of the city, including Nowhatta, MR Gunj and Khanyar, as a measure. The graveyard was completely closed. No one was allowed to enter or visit during the day or at night.
A senior police official said the restrictions were in place as a precaution. He confirmed that any political leader trying to reach the site would have their movement restricted. Security forces were deployed with barricades and checkpoints set up in parts of downtown Srinagar.
Mehbooba Mufti Placed Under House Arrest
Mehbooba Muftis daughter, Iltija Mufti told reporters that authorities put her mother under house arrest on Saturday to stop her from visiting the Martyrs Graveyard on Sunday. The PDP strongly criticized the action saying it was part of a pattern of stopping political leaders from participating in the annual commemoration.
What Martyrs’ Day Commemorates
July 13 is observed as Martyrs Day in Jammu and Kashmir. It commemorates the killing of 22 Kashmiris by forces to Maharaja Hari Singh outside Srinagars Central Jail in 1931. The killings happened when demonstrators protested against Dogra rule and it triggered unrest.
A Recurring Point of Political Contention
The restrictions this year are not new. Access to the graveyard has been restricted in years since the holidays removal. Political parties, including the National Conference (NC) PDP, Apni Party and Peoples Conference have been denied permission to pay tribute at the site.
Political Divisions Among Mainstream Parties
The PDP criticized the ruling National Conference saying they only paid symbolic tribute to the 1931 martyrs. Mehbooba Mufti mentioned the rejection of a PDP-sponsored resolution in the Assembly seeking restoration of the holiday.
The BJPs Position
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is against reinstating July 13 as a holiday. Some BJP leaders have drawn criticism for referring to the 1931 martyrs in a way.
Why This Debate Persists
The dispute over July 13 reflects tensions in Jammu and Kashmirs political landscape. It touches on questions of memory, regional identity and the balance between security considerations and political and religious expression.
What Happens Next
The annual dispute over Martyrs Day appears set to remain a recurring issue in Jammu and Kashmirs political calendar. The PDPs renewed public criticism and its framing of the climate, as one of fear may lead to further political statements and demands regarding the holidays status.
