Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed disappointment over the restrictions imposed on the observance of July 13, 1931, martyrs’ day, calling them unnecessary and regrettable. He emphasized that the historical event symbolized a fight against oppression rather than a religious conflict. Abdullah, addressing the media at the National Conference headquarters, condemned the security measures, stating that the sacrifices of the martyrs cannot be erased by barricades or restrictions.
The Chief Minister highlighted that the restrictions imposed in the city were unfortunate and reiterated that the essence of the 1931 martyrs’ sacrifices should not be overlooked. He criticized the authorities for preventing leaders from visiting the Martyrs Graveyard, emphasizing the importance of understanding the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdullah underscored that the struggle of July 13, 1931, was a battle against oppression, democracy, and British paramountcy, not a religious altercation.
Abdullah questioned the rationale behind the stringent measures, noting that the restrictions were unwarranted, especially considering the limited number of people intending to pay tributes at the graveyard. He emphasized that the attempts to portray the historical event in a different light were misleading. The Chief Minister asserted that those enforcing restrictions in the region were temporary occupants and that the people of Jammu and Kashmir would persist. Abdullah vowed that despite the obstacles faced, tributes would be paid at the Martyrs Graveyard in due time.
