Authorities on Sunday sealed all roads leading to the Martyrs’ Graveyard in Nowhatta area of Srinagar’s old city, effectively blocking any commemoration of Martyrs’ Day, once a significant political and public event in Jammu and Kashmir.
The restrictions come after the National Conference (NC) sought permission to pay homage at the graveyard, which was denied by the district administration citing law-and-order concerns. In response, NC claimed that many of its senior leaders — including sitting MLAs and leadership at Gupkar — have been placed under house arrest.
Security was visibly tight across Srinagar. Police and central paramilitary forces were deployed at all major entry points to the city, and barricades allowed only official and security vehicles to pass through.
“The District Administration Srinagar has denied permission to all applicants intending to proceed towards Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta on July 13,” Srinagar Police posted on X (formerly Twitter), adding that violations would invite strict legal action.
NC Calls Restrictions “Deeply Unfortunate”
Tanvir Sadiq, NC’s chief spokesperson, said the denial of permission was unjustified and an attempt to erase history.
“July 13 is not a routine date. It is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of dignity, justice, and rights,” Sadiq posted on X.
In a follow-up post, Sadiq said he and many colleagues were locked inside their homes since Saturday night.
“This is not just unfortunate, it is a deliberate attempt to suppress remembrance and deny the right to honour the martyrs of July 13. It shows a troubling disregard for history,” he said.
History of July 13
Martyrs’ Day commemorates the killing of 21 Kashmiris in 1931 by the Dogra army outside Srinagar Central Jail. They were protesting the autocratic rule of the Maharaja. Until 2019, the day was a public holiday, and leaders from across the political spectrum traditionally visited the graveyard to pay tribute.
However, after the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories, the administration removed July 13 from the list of official holidays in 2020.
This year’s clampdown continues the pattern of shrinking space for political expression in Kashmir. NC leaders said they will continue to “honour the martyrs peacefully, with dignity, and unwavering resolve.”
No official statement was issued on the reported house arrests of NC leaders.
