SRINAGAR: Local political parties and their leaders paid glowing tributes to martyrs of July 13, 1931, saying that the day will inspire millions of people to fight for justice, truth, and peace, though no official function was held to commemorate the day.
Highlighting the valor and selfless sacrifices of the martyrs, National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah said the 13th of July 1931 was a watershed moment in the history of Kashmir and marked the beginning of a struggle against tyranny, oppression, and despotism.
In a statement issued here, Dr Farooq Abdullah said the sacrifices of the valiant martyrs were timeless and continue to inspire millions of people to fight for justice, truth, and peace.
“The undying thirst for dignity cannot be suppressed by injustice and the 13th July Martyrs proved that non-violence and persistence always prevail over oppression and tyranny in the end. I pay my humble tributes to the martyrs and make a fervent appeal to the people in general and our youth, in particular, to be well informed about the history of our struggle against oppression and tyranny”, Dr Farooq Abdullah said in his message.
National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah said the sacrifices of the martyrs of 13th July will continue to be a beacon of humanity’s fight for dignity and justice. “I pay my humble tributes to our great martyrs who laid down their lives to pave way for a struggle against despotism and tyranny. It was their sacrifice that proved a turning point in our history and inspired millions of oppressed Kashmiris to rise in unison against oppression. 13th July will always be a day where the people of Kashmir will reiterate their commitment to overcoming evil with kindness, non-violence and peace,” he said.
Paying homage to the martyr’s on the 92nd Martyrs day, Peoples Democratic Party in a tweet said, “The martyrs of 13th July with their blood wrote a new chapter in the history of JK which triggered a yearning amongst us all to fight for a life of dignity. As we pay homage we also reiterate our resolve to strive for restoration of J&K’s dignity & democracy.”
Apni Party highlighting the significance of the day said, “This historic day reminds us of the sacrifices made by our ancestors, who laid down their lives in the struggle against autocracy. These brave individuals, who tragically fell victim to the bullets on this day some 92 years ago, epitomised the quest for democracy in the region,” it said in a statement issued.
It added, “Apni Party remains steadfast in upholding the mission of these revered martyrs, ensuring that their fight for the restoration of democracy and democratic institutions in Jammu and Kashmir continues.”
JKPC Provincial President and former legislator Mohammad Khursheed Alam said that this day holds immense significance and will forever remain in our collective memory as a testament to the sacrifices made by these valiant individuals.
“Today, we solemnly reflect upon the sacrifices made by these brave souls and recommit ourselves to upholding the principles they fought for. The martyrs made the ultimate sacrifice, laying down their lives in the pursuit of respect and rights for the people of Kashmir. Their unwavering commitment to the cause has left an indelible mark on our hearts and serves as a constant reminder of the values we hold dear”, he added.
Alam stated that it is unfortunate that he along with other leaders of the party were unjustly detained and denied the opportunity to lead a peaceful gathering of party leaders and workers to offer prayers and pay tributes to the martyrs at Manzar-e-Shohda.
