Kashmir Martyrs’ Day, observed on July 13, marks a poignant chapter in the history of Kashmir’s relentless quest for freedom. This solemn day commemorates the brutal massacre of 22 brave Kashmiris by the despotic Dogra rulers outside Srinagar Jail in 1931, a grim reminder of the oppression faced by the Kashmiri people. These martyrs, who were killed while attempting to say the Azan (call for prayer), symbolize the unyielding spirit and enormous sacrifices made by Kashmiris in their struggle against both the Dogra regime and the subsequent Indian state. The tragedy of July 13 is not merely a historical event but a milestone that underscores the enduring resistance of Kashmiris against foreign occupation, epitomized by their uprising against the prosecution of Abdul Qadeer Khan Ghazi, a staunch supporter of their cause. Observed not only across the Line of Control but globally, Kashmir Martyrs’ Day serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and indomitable will of the Kashmiri people in their fight for self-determination and justice.
Despite Muslim rage and resistance, the British sold off Jammu and Kashmir to Hindu Maharaja Gulab Singh for Rs. 750,000. This transaction marked the beginning of a dark era for the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir, as the anti-Muslim Maharaja banned pre-prayer sermons, allowed the desecration of the Holy Quran, dispossessed Muslims of their land-holdings, and booked numerous youth under treason charges. The 100-year span of Dogra rule represents a completely bleak and dark part of history for the Muslims of Jammu and Kashmir, characterized by relentless oppression and suffering. The Dogra regime’s policies were not just discriminatory but explicitly aimed at subjugating the Muslim population, stripping them of their religious freedoms, economic stability, and basic human rights.
The trial of Abdul Qadir on treason charges was being held in Central Jail Srinagar when, at Zohar prayer time, a young man tried to call the Azaan. He was shot dead by police. Another man stood up to continue the Azaan; he met the same fate. Until the completion of the Azaan, twenty-two Kashmiris embraced shahadat (martyrdom) in the process. This massacre became a pivotal moment in the Kashmiri struggle against foreign occupation, igniting a spirit of resistance that has persisted through generations. The sacrifice of these 22 martyrs highlighted the extreme brutality of the Dogra regime and served as a rallying cry for the Kashmiri people, who began to unite in their quest for freedom and justice.
The 22 martyrs symbolize the unyielding spirit of Kashmiri resistance. Their sacrifice continues to inspire future generations, reinforcing the collective memory and identity of the Kashmiri people. Kashmir Martyrs’ Day is not merely a commemoration but a reaffirmation of the historical and ongoing struggle for freedom. The day serves as a reminder of the persistent fight for self-determination and justice, reflecting the unbroken resolve of the Kashmiri people. The blood of these martyrs has become the seed of the ongoing resistance, reminding every Kashmiri of their duty to carry forward the legacy of sacrifice and struggle.
Kashmiris, imbued with a spirit of freedom against foreign occupation, have continuously rendered sacrifices, including their lives, to resist the forcible occupation of their land by India. The data clearly indicates the continuous and growing Indian brutalities against Kashmiri Muslims: 96,320 Kashmiris have been martyred, 7,341 killed in custody, 171,627 civilians arrested, 110,515 structures arsoned or destroyed, 22,976 women widowed, 107,963 children orphaned, and 11,264 women gang-raped or molested. These figures are a stark testament to the immense human cost of the Kashmir conflict and the ongoing atrocities committed by Indian forces. The resilience of the Kashmiri people in the face of such brutal repression is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their cause.
The situation in Kashmir remains dire, with widespread political and human rights violations. The Modi government’s actions, such as the revocation of Article 370 and 35A, further exacerbate the plight of Kashmiris. These actions are part of a broader strategy to erode the autonomy and unique identity of Kashmir, effectively integrating it into the Indian state against the will of its people. The ‘delimitation exercise’ by the Modi government could be used to fulfill the BJP’s ambition of installing a Hindu chief minister in the Muslim-majority region or leave a Kashmiri chief minister completely at the mercy of Jammu votes. This move is a blatant attempt to manipulate the political landscape of Kashmir, undermining the democratic rights of its people and entrenching Hindu nationalist control over the region.
The data clearly indicates the continuous and growing Indian brutalities against Kashmiri Muslims. The legacy of July 13, 1931, continues to resonate in modern times as Kashmiris face new forms of oppression under Indian rule. The denial of fundamental rights has prompted a home-grown armed struggle against Indian oppression, reflecting the deep-seated desire for liberation. The list of Kashmiri martyrs has increased manifold, from Maqbool Bhat to Burhan Wani, highlighting the continued sacrifices made by Kashmiris for their freedom. The Indian state’s response to Kashmiri aspirations for self-determination has been one of relentless repression, aiming to crush any form of dissent through sheer force.
The international community’s response to the Kashmir issue has been inadequate, with many countries turning a blind eye to the suffering of Kashmiris. There is a pressing need for global awareness and support to address the injustices faced by Kashmiris and to hold India accountable for its actions. The international community must recognize the human rights violations occurring in Kashmir and take a firm stand against India’s oppressive policies. Advocacy and activism on a global scale are crucial in highlighting the plight of Kashmiris and pressuring India to respect their rights. The global community must stand in solidarity with the Kashmiri people, supporting their struggle for freedom and justice and ensuring that their voices are heard on the international stage.
It is imperative to continue advocating for the rights of Kashmiris and to support their struggle for freedom. Encouraging solidarity with the Kashmiri cause and raising awareness about their plight are essential steps in achieving justice. The international community, human rights organizations, and activists must work together to highlight the ongoing atrocities in Kashmir and to push for meaningful action to address these issues. Educating people about the historical and contemporary context of the Kashmiri struggle is vital in promoting understanding and support. Awareness campaigns and educational initiatives can play a significant role in garnering international support for Kashmir. By spreading knowledge about the history and current situation in Kashmir, we can build a global movement that demands justice and self-determination for the Kashmiri people.
The enduring spirit of the Kashmiri people, their resilience, and their sacrifices are a testament to their unwavering quest for freedom. Kashmir Martyrs’ Day is a powerful reminder of their struggle and a call to action for the international community to stand with them in their fight for justice and self-determination. The sacrifices of the martyrs and the ongoing resistance of the Kashmiri people inspire hope and determination in the face of oppression. Despite the challenges and oppression faced by Kashmiris, their spirit remains unbroken. With continued advocacy, activism, and international support, there is hope for a just and peaceful future for Kashmir. The global community must unite to support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and to demand an end to the atrocities committed by the Indian state.