Sheikh Abdul Momin
Kashmir Martyrs day known as Youm-e-Shuhada-e Kashmir, is an annual commemoration held on July 13th to honor the 22 kashmiris who sacrificed their lives in 1931 while fighting against the oppressive rule of the Dogra rulers in an effort to liberate Kashmir.
This significant day is observed by kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control, as well as by kashmiri communities worldwide. It marks a pivotal moment in the kashmiri struggle against foreign occupation…
On July 13,1931 , the people of Kashmir rose up against the despotic Dogra authority in protest of the arrest of Abdul Qadeer Khan Ghazi, a vocal supporter of kashmiri’s independence. A large Gathering of Kashmiris took place outside Srinagar’s Central Jail, voicing their demands for freedom, equal rights and an end to the oppressive dictatorship.
Tragically , 22 kashmiris were martyred one after another by the soldiers of the Dogra Maharaja when they gathered outside the jail during the court hearings of Abdul Qadeer.
During the time of Namaz-e-Zuhr, a brave young man started the call to prayer ( Azaan) but he was ruthlessly killed by the forces of the Maharaja. These 2 young individuals sacrificed their lives while completing the Azaan.
The peaceful rally turned violent as the Dogra soldiers opened fire on the crowd, resulting in the loss of several innocent lives. This incident ignited a movement to protect the rights and self determination of the kashmiri people.
Renowned politician and academic from Kashmir, Prem Nath Bazaz, asserts that July 13th marked the official beginning of the contemporary freedom movement and quest for independence in Kashmir.
Kashmiris Commemorate Martyrs week from July 8th to July 13th. On July 8th Resistance Day is observed to honor Burhan wani and on July 13th , Kashmir Martyrs Day pays tribute to the 22 individuals who lost their lives in Srinagar in 1931 due to the gunfire of the Maharaja’s army.
For the kashmiri people, Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir is a day that inspires and motivates their ongoing struugle for freedom. It serves as a powerfull message to the Indian authorites that kashmiris will never surrender in the face of oppression.
The Writer is Islamabad Based Journalist.
