ISLAMABAD / SRINAGAR: Kashmiris across the globe are solemnly observing Youm-e-Shuhada-e-Kashmir (Kashmir Martyrs’ Day) today, paying tribute to the 22 Kashmiris who were brutally martyred on July 13, 1931, by the forces of the Dogra regime.
This day marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Kashmiri resistance, symbolizing the beginning of an enduring struggle for freedom, dignity, and self-determination.
A Turning Point in Kashmiri History:
The tragic events of July 13 unfolded outside Srinagar Central Jail, where thousands had gathered in support of Abdul Qadeer Khan, a young man charged with sedition for demanding an end to Dogra tyranny. As the crowd assembled for Zuhar prayers, a young man began the Azan (call to prayer)—only to be shot dead by Dogra troops. Another youth stepped forward to continue the Azan and met the same fate. This continued until 22 young men were killed, each one sacrificing his life to complete the sacred call.
The massacre, carried out on the orders of Dogra Governor Raizada Trilok Chand, remains etched in Kashmiri memory as a moment of profound loss and awakening.
Historical Context:
The seeds of resistance were sown long before the tragic events of July 13. Under the Dogra rule, Kashmir’s Muslim majority faced systemic discrimination, economic exploitation, and religious persecution. From the ban on Eid sermons to the desecration of the Holy Quran, a series of provocations ignited widespread anger across the valley.
Pakistan’s Stand and Continued Support:
Pakistan views the incident of July 13, 1931, not merely as a historical tragedy but as the birth of Kashmir’s freedom movement. It symbolizes the unyielding spirit of resistance against colonial and communal oppression. Pakistan’s editorial policy emphasizes:
Recognition of the martyrs as pioneers of the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination.
Condemnation of Dogra atrocities, which laid the foundation for decades of Kashmiri suffering.
Solidarity with the Kashmiri people, reaffirming Pakistan’s moral, diplomatic, and political support for their right to freedom.
Promotion of international awareness, urging global institutions to acknowledge and investigate historical and ongoing human rights violations in Indian-administered Kashmir.
Special prayers meetings, symposiums hallmark of the Kashmir Martyrs Day across Azad Jammu & Kashmir as well as at various places in the strife-torn Indian Illegally occupied Jammu Kashmir Stste and rest of the world to observe the day.
The martyrs of July 13 were buried at Mazar-e-Shuhada in Srinagar, which has since become a symbol of Kashmiri resilience. Their sacrifice inspired the formation of the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference, marking the beginning of organized political resistance.
