SRINAGAR, Jul 14: Security restrictions remained in effect for a second consecutive day in parts of Srinagar, specifically the Naqshband Sahib area and its surroundings, as authorities aimed to prevent any public gatherings to commemorate Martyrs’ Day.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that security forces maintained a strong presence, including police and paramilitary personnel, across the old city areas such as Nowhatta and Naqshband Sahib. These measures were implemented as a precautionary step to ensure law and order, according to officials.
On Monday, the Naqshband Sahib locality was entirely cordoned off by security forces to forestall any assemblies intended to observe July 13 as Martyrs’ Day. This day marks the anniversary of the 1931 incident when 22 individuals were reportedly killed by the soldiers of Maharaja Hari Singh during protests outside Srinagar’s central jail.
Political figures, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, stated that they were prevented from visiting the martyrs’ graveyard to pay their respects. Both leaders subsequently offered tributes at their respective party headquarters.
The administration, led by the Lieutenant Governor, had previously removed July 13 from the list of gazetted holidays in 2020. The events of July 13, 1931, hold historical significance in the region, stemming from the firing incident that resulted in the deaths of 22 protestors.
The Chenab Times News Desk