Kashmir Leaders Allegedly House Arrested to Prevent Homage to 1931 Martyrs

Top political figures in Jammu and Kashmir, including PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and NC leader Omar Abdullah, claimed they were put under house arrest to prevent them from paying respects to martyrs of 1931. Authorities are accused of suppressing tributes to the state's historic figures.

Several political leaders in Jammu and Kashmir, including People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader Omar Abdullah, claimed on Saturday that authorities have placed them under 'house arrest' to prevent them from paying homage to the people allegedly killed by the Army on this day in 1931.

Mufti stated, 'The gates of my house have been locked up yet again to prevent me from visiting Mazar e Shuhada—an enduring symbol of Kashmir's resistance and resilience against authoritarianism, oppression, and injustice. The sacrifices of our martyrs attest that the spirit of Kashmiris cannot be crushed. Today, even observing it in remembrance of the protesters martyred on this day has been criminalized.'

Omar Abdullah also expressed outrage over police actions aimed at stopping people from paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives to establish a 'just, fair, and democratic regime' in Jammu and Kashmir. 'Another 13th July, Martyr's Day, another round of locked gates and police excesses. This is the last year they will be able to do this. InshaAllah, next year we will mark 13th July with the solemnity & respect this day deserves,' Abdullah posted on X.

Sajad Lone, Jammu, and Kashmir People's Conference (JKPC) chairman, claimed he has also been placed under house arrest. 'For no reason informed of being under house arrest. People have a right to choose their heroes and the martyrs are heroes for the people of Kashmir. Why be in denial?' Lone posted on X.