Kashmir Martyrs Day 2025
The politics of Jammu and Kashmir in 2025 is tense around Martyrs’ Day on July 13. This day, once an official holiday, honours those killed in 1931 during protests against the Dogra regime. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the holiday was scrapped. With an elected government now in power, political parties planned to visit the Martyrs’ Cemetery. The BJP opposed this. To prevent visits, the police placed many leaders under house arrest. The controversy marks deep political divides and the complex legacy of Kashmir’s struggle.
Historical Background of Martyrs’ Day
Martyrs’ Day commemorates the killing of 22 Kashmiri Muslims on 13 July 1931. They were shot by Dogra police outside Srinagar Central Jail during a protest. The protest was against the Dogra rulers’ autocratic rule. The victims were buried at the shrine of Khawja Bahaudin Naqashbandi. Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah declared this day as Martyrs’ Day to honour their sacrifice. The event marked the start of political awakening and identity assertion in Kashmir.
Events Leading to the 1931 Shooting
Discontent against the Dogra regime had been rising. Abdul Qadeer Khan, accused of sedition, was on trial. Thousands gathered outside the jail to witness the trial. Protestors camped outside the jail and raised slogans. Police opened fire, killing 22 and injuring many. Narratives differ on whether protestors tried to breach the jail or were peaceful. The killing became a symbol of resistance against oppression.
Official Commemoration and Political Significance
Before 2019, July 13 was a state holiday in Jammu and Kashmir. Political leaders visited the Martyrs’ Cemetery annually. The day united mainstream and separatist parties in remembering the fallen. The BJP opposed the holiday and preferred commemorating Maharaja Hari Singh, the Dogra ruler during the killings. The PDP-BJP coalition government in 2015 saw mixed participation in Martyrs’ Day events, reflecting political divides.
Post-2019 Changes and Current Controversy
After Article 370’s abrogation, the official holiday was removed. The Martyrs’ Cemetery was sealed and political visits blocked. The birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh was declared a holiday instead. The current elected government has avoided official commemoration, causing criticism. Police actions to restrict leaders’ movements have increased tensions. The day remains a flashpoint symbolising Kashmir’s struggle and political fault lines.
Political Responses and Public Sentiment
The National Conference and PDP have sought to honour the martyrs despite restrictions. The BJP opposes official recognition of the day. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the police detentions as undemocratic. He compared the 1931 killings to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Public sentiment remains divided but the day continues to evoke strong emotions about identity, history and politics in Kashmir.
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