Today Marks ‘Kashmir Martyrs’ Day’: Remembrance of Sacrifices

Kashmir Martyrs’ Day, or Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir, is observed every year on July 13. This day commemorates the sacrifices of Kashmiris in their struggle for freedom against the oppressive Dogra rule and Indian state.

Honouring the Martyrs:

On July 13, 1931, 22 Kashmiris were martyred by Dogra soldiers outside Srinagar Jail while attempting to say the Azan (call for prayer). This tragic day is a significant milestone in the history of the Kashmiri struggle against foreign occupation.

The Struggle Against Oppression:

The day marks a revolt against atrocities when Kashmiris rose against the autocratic Dogra rule. They protested the prosecution of Abdul Qadeer Khan Ghazi, a sympathizer of the Kashmir struggle.

Dogra Rule: A Dark Era:

The British sold Jammu and Kashmir to Hindu Maharaja Gulab Singh for Rs. 750,000. The Maharaja banned pre-prayer sermons, allowed desecration of the Holy Quran, and dispossessed Muslims of their land. The 100-year span of Dogra rule was a period of immense suffering for the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Tragic Events of July 13, 1931:

During Abdul Qadir’s trial, a young man tried to call Azaan and was shot dead. Another man continued the Azaan and met the same fate. In total, twenty-two Kashmiris embraced martyrdom during the completion of the Azaan.

Ongoing Struggle:

Kashmiris have continued their struggle against the forcible occupation of their land by India. The data below highlights the continuous brutalities against Kashmiri Muslims:

– Total Shaheed: 96,320

– Custodial killings: 7,341

– Civilian arrested: 171,627

– Structures Arsoned/Destroyed: 110,515

– Women Widowed: 22,976

– Children Orphaned: 107,963

– Women gang-raped/molested: 11,264

Political Oppression:

After revoking Article 370 and 35A on August 5, 2019, the Modi government aims to redraw the electoral map. This ‘delimitation exercise’ could install a Hindu chief minister in the Muslim-majority region or leave a Kashmiri chief minister dependent on Jammu votes.

Continued Sacrifices:

Kashmiris have shown unwavering determination to achieve freedom from Indian tyranny. From Maqbool Bhat to Burhan Wani, the list of martyrs has grown, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination.