Omar Abdullah calls Martyrs’ Graveyard restrictions temporary, says sacrifices for freedom will remain eternal

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticised the restrictions imposed on access to the Martyrs’ Graveyard in Srinagar, saying those preventing people from paying homage would not remain in power forever, but the sacrifices of martyrs would always be remembered.

Addressing reporters at the National Conference headquarters in Srinagar, Abdullah said the martyrs’ legacy would continue despite attempts to stop people from visiting the site. He said people would return to the graveyard and pay their respects whenever possible.

Senior National Conference leaders, including party president Farooq Abdullah, gathered at the party office to mark the martyrs of July 13, 1931. On that day, 22 people were killed outside Srinagar’s Central Jail by the Dogra forces during protests against the then princely rule.

Abdullah said the martyrs’ struggle was not based on religion but was a fight for democracy and freedom. He alleged that their sacrifices were being ignored due to political interpretations and stressed that their contribution was part of Jammu and Kashmir’s historical struggle.

The Chief Minister also questioned claims of normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir, citing restrictions around the Martyrs’ Graveyard and security measures during the Amarnath Yatra. He said such decisions raised concerns over the situation in the region.

Meanwhile, Abdullah said the National Conference was awaiting permission from the Delhi Police to hold a protest at Jantar Mantar over the issue.