The administration in Jammu and Kashmir has turned down requests from political parties, including the National Conference (NC), to hold commemorative events in Srinagar on July 13, traditionally observed by some as Martyrs’ Day.
A wreath-laying ceremony had been planned at the graveyard in Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta, where several political figures are buried. Senior NC leaders, including Omar Abdullah and Dr. Farooq Abdullah, were expected to participate in the tribute. However, officials cited administrative concerns and denied permission for the gathering.
A police statement confirmed that the Srinagar district administration has not authorised any such event, and that any attempt to proceed toward the site would be dealt with according to law. Authorities have also advised all parties to adhere strictly to the directives in place.
Appeals for Public Holiday, Historical Significance Recalled
Earlier, the National Conference had formally requested the Lieutenant Governor’s office to reinstate July 13 as a public holiday. The date marks a 1931 incident during which 22 protestors, who attacked the Srinagar Jail to get an accused of sedition free, lost their lives during protests under the then-monarchical regime, an episode often cited as a milestone in the region’s political evolution.
The event had been a public holiday for decades until its removal from the official calendar in 2020. Despite returning to government in 2023, the National Conference has not been able to restore either of the two dates to the holiday list.
Security and Policy Protocols Post-2019 Continue
Since the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status in 2019, administrative restrictions on public events at sensitive locations have become more frequent. In recent years, several political leaders have faced movement restrictions on similar occasions to ensure public safety and avoid large-scale gatherings.
Responding to the denial of permission, NC spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq said the decision was “unfortunate,” adding that peaceful remembrance events should not be restricted.
The National Conference, along with other parties such as the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Apni Party, had expressed intentions to observe the day with symbolic tributes, all of which have now been halted following the administration’s directive.
