Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti joined other regional parties on Thursday to pay tributes to civilians killed in 1931 during the Dogra monarchy. The PDP’s coalition partner, the BJP, however, stayed away from the event.
“The best way to remember the sacrifices of these martyrs is that the people of J&K work together in strengthening the democratic, secular and tolerant system, which was set up after huge sacrifices and struggles by our forefathers,” said Ms. Mufti.
Accompanied by top PDP ministers and legislators, besides top police officials, Ms. Mufti visited the graveyard located next to the Hazrat Bahau’din Naqshband shrine in the old city.
BJP’s stand
For the second year running, the BJP has refused to be a part of the State event. “The BJP ideologically doesn’t accept July 13, 1931 as martyr’s day. People killed then are those who broke the law and the State forces did what was required under the law. We neither believe in martyr’s day, nor do we approve it,” BJP chief spokesperson Sunil Sethi said.
Criticising the BJP, National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah, also MP from Srinagar, said, “It is obvious they (BJP) have nothing to do with this. They are only here to stay in power and loot the public of J&K.”
Separatists stopped
Meanwhile, curfew-like restrictions were imposed in parts of Srinagar to prevent separatist protests. Internet services were also stopped suspended.
The police also stopped Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq from leading a march towards the graveyard. “Every day charred and bullet ridden bodies of our youth are sent to homes. Hundreds are pushed to the wall and forced to take up arms due to repeated persecution and witch-hunt of police. When is this politics of revenge and harassment going to end he asked?” the Mirwaiz said.
Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani was also prevented from entering the old city.
Meanwhile, normal life remained affected in the Valley due to separatists shutdown call.