Heroic Hearts: Remembering Kashmir’s Martyr
The region of Indian Occupied Kashmir has witnessed widespread human rights violations, The Kashmir conflict has long been marred by grievous human rights abuses, including unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and sexual violence. The majority of these atrocities are attributed to the Indian military, with the exact number of civilian casualties varying widely, and approximately up to 100,000. Investigations have confirmed numerous instances of torture, extrajudicial killings, and the use of rape as a weapon of war. Despite the Indian Army’s denial of most allegations, critics argue that the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) provides a shield from accountability, allowing such abuses to persist without legal repercussions.
Kashmir’s troubled history includes the brutal period of Dogra rule from 1846 to 1947. This era was marked by severe oppression and exploitation of Kashmiri Muslims, who faced inhumane treatment, forced labor, excessive taxation, and severe punishments, including capital punishment for cow slaughtering. The lives of Kashmiri Muslims were reduced to a state of misery, living in constant fear and oppression, their existence barely distinguishable from that of animals.
The oppression reached a critical point on April 19, 1931, when the Dogra authorities banned the Eid Khutba (sermon), sparking widespread protests in Jammu. These protests continued for days, culminating in the desecration of the Holy Quran by Dogra forces. This sacrilege ignited outrage among Muslims across the state, exacerbating their suffering and fueling their determination to fight against the oppressive regime.
July 13, 1931, is a date etched in the collective memory of Kashmiris, marking a pivotal moment in their struggle for freedom and rights. On this day, Kashmiri Muslims gathered outside the Central Jail in Srinagar to protest the trial of Abdul Qadeer, a young Kashmiri accused of challenging the Dogra rule. The protest was a manifestation of the widespread discontent over the injustices and discrimination faced by Kashmiris under the Dogra regime.
As the unarmed protestors demonstrated peacefully, the authorities responded with brutal force, opening fire and resulting in the deaths of 22 brave Kashmiris. These martyrs, who laid down their lives outside Srinagar Central Jail, became symbols of resistance against tyranny and oppression. Their sacrifice galvanized Kashmiri society, igniting a movement for greater political and social rights.
Kashmir Martyrs’ Day, observed annually on July 13, commemorates these 22 martyrs and serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom in Kashmir. This solemn occasion is marked by Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and around the world, including in Pakistan, to honor these heroes who sacrificed their lives for the freedom and rights of the Kashmiri people.
The victims of the July 13, 1931, massacre were buried in a special graveyard, now known as the Martyrs’ Graveyard, which stands as a testament to their sacrifice. Until 2019, July 13 was a public holiday in Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting the significance of this day in the region’s history.
The legacy of Kashmir Martyrs’ Day continues to resonate deeply within the Kashmiri community and beyond. It highlights the enduring spirit of resistance and the unyielding quest for justice and autonomy. Despite the Indian government’s efforts to downplay the significance of this day, it remains a powerful symbol of the Kashmiri struggle. Kashmiris are still determinant and are demanding for their right to self-determination.
The international community’s attention to the human rights situation in Kashmir is crucial. Advocacy for accountability, justice, and the protection of human rights remains essential. Global organizations and nations must recognize and address the plight of Kashmiris, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights upheld.
Kashmir’s history is a poignant narrative of resilience and resistance against oppression. The atrocities committed against its people, from the Dogra rule to the present day, underscore the urgent need for justice and accountability. Kashmir Martyrs’ Day stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and dignity. As we honor the memory of the martyrs of July 13, 1931, we must continue to advocate for the rights and freedoms of the Kashmiri people, ensuring that their struggle is recognized and their voices are amplified on the global stage.
The writer Saamin Sadheer is an Intern at YFK- International Kashmir Lobby Group, and a student of International Relation at UAJK.
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