Political Tensions Rise Ahead of Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir

Anticipation Surrounds Martyrs' Day Observance

In Jammu and Kashmir, the political climate is charged as July 13 approaches, a day recognized as Martyrs' Day. All eyes are on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to determine if political leaders will be permitted to honor this day at the historic Martyrs' Graveyard in Srinagar. This year marks the first observance under the newly elected government led by the National Conference, which has formally requested that July 13 be reinstated as a public holiday.

Martyrs' Day is deeply significant in Kashmir's political history, commemorating the sacrifice of 22 civilians who lost their lives during protests against the Dogra regime in 1931. Prior to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, this day was officially recognized with state ceremonies and a public holiday. However, since then, the administration led by the LG has eliminated the holiday and restricted political leaders' access to the graveyard on this day.

Political Leaders Under Scrutiny

Last year, several political figures were placed under house arrest to prevent them from visiting the graveyard in downtown Srinagar. Omar Abdullah, the Vice President of the National Conference and current Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, has pledged that such restrictions will not persist. He stated on social media last year, 'This is the last year they will be able to do this. From next year, we will mark July 13 with the solemnity and respect this day deserves.'

In a letter to the District Magistrate of Srinagar, NC General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar has requested security arrangements for party leaders wishing to visit the graveyard on July 13. The NC is also advocating for the official recognition of both July 13 and December 5, Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah's birth anniversary, as public holidays.

Support from Other Political Parties

Tanvir Sadiq, the Chief Spokesperson for the National Conference, affirmed that the party will indeed visit the martyrs' graveyard on July 13 to pay their respects. He emphasized that their government will restore the holiday on this date, irrespective of opposition from the BJP.

Other regional parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and JK Apni Party (JKAP), have echoed the call for an official ceremony to honor Martyrs' Day. JKAP President Altaf Bukhari stated, 'The elected government should restore the official ceremony to pay tributes on July 13.'

Skepticism and Uncertainty

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti expressed doubts regarding the NC's intentions, suggesting that their legislative proposal to reinstate holidays would have been more credible with support from the Assembly Speaker. 'Today's exercise looks more like lip service than any serious effort,' she remarked.

As the date draws near, uncertainty remains about whether political leaders will be allowed to pay their respects at the Martyrs' Graveyard or if the LG administration will impose restrictions similar to those of the previous year. The outcome will undoubtedly influence the political landscape in Jammu and Kashmir regarding this issue.