Kashmir’s Martyrs' Day

Martyrs' Day, Jammu and Kashmir, is a significant and politically sensitive observance in the Union Territory. It holds deep historical relevance and has become a key point of discussion in current affairs, especially after the abrogation of Article 370.

For SSC aspirants, understanding the background, events, and political developments surrounding Martyrs' Day y Jammu and Kashmir is crucial for exams and interviews.

What is Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir?

Martyrs' Day, Jammu and Kashmir, is observed every year on 13 July to commemorate the killing of 22 Kashmiri Muslims in 1931 by the Dogra police. This incident occurred outside the Srinagar Central Jail, where people had gathered to support Abdul Qadeer Khan, who was on trial for making anti-Dogra speeches.

The crowd protested against the autocratic Dogra rule, and police opened fire, killing 22 unarmed protestors. The victims were later buried at the Martyrs Cemetery in Srinagar, and the day became a symbol of resistance against political oppression.

Why is Martyrs' Day Observed in Kashmir?

Many aspirants may ask: Why is Martyrs Day observed in Kashmir?

The answer lies in the long-standing struggle against Dogra regime oppression. This day marks the beginning of the Kashmiri political awakening.

Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, one of the most influential political figures of Kashmir, declared 13 July as Martyrs’ Day in Jammu and Kashmir to honour those who sacrificed their lives for justice and civil rights.

History of 13 July 1931 in Srinagar

The 13 July 1931 protest was a turning point in Kashmir’s political history. Key facts include:

• Location: Outside Srinagar Central Jail

• Cause: Support for Abdul Qadeer Khan, accused of sedition

• Action: Dogra police opened fire on peaceful protestors

• Casualties: 22 protestors were martyred

• Significance: Marked the beginning of organized political resistance in Kashmir

This event is often referred to as Kashmir’s Jallianwala Bagh, a comparison drawn by leaders like Omar Abdullah.

Political Importance Before and After Article 370

Before the abrogation of Article 370, Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir was an official public holiday. Political leaders from mainstream parties such as the National Conference (NC) and PDP visited the Martyrs Cemetery in Srinagar annually to pay homage.

After the removal of Article 370 in 2019, several changes occurred:

• Martyrs' Day, Jammu and Kashmir, was removed from the official holiday list

• The birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh was declared a holiday instead

• The Martyrs Cemetery was sealed off, and political gatherings were restricted

This move drew criticism from multiple parties and marked a shift in how the Kashmir identity and political history were being reshaped.

Political Reactions to Martyrs' Day 2025

The year 2025 saw heightened tensions around Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir:

• With a newly elected government in power, NC and PDP leaders planned to visit the Martyrs Cemetery

• The BJP opposed the move, calling it a politically motivated act

• Police placed several leaders under house arrest, including Omar Abdullah

• There was a Kashmir police crackdown to prevent any form of public commemoration

The political reactions to Martyrs Day 2025 demonstrate the deep divide between the BJP and regional parties regarding Kashmir’s historical narrative.

Role of Sheikh Abdullah in Martyrs’ Day

Sheikh Abdullah played a pivotal role in institutionalizing Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir. He saw the 1931 massacre as the first expression of Kashmiri self-respect and political consciousness. He used this event to rally support against the Dogra monarchy and later became the first elected Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

His contributions remain a key part of the commemoration of Kashmir martyrs post-2019, even though the official recognition of the day has been withdrawn.

Current Public Sentiment and Divided Views

Public opinion on Martyrs Day in Kashmir remains sharply divided:

• Many Kashmiris still view the day as sacred, representing their struggle for dignity and justice

• BJP supporters emphasize celebrating Maharaja Hari Singh Day, viewing him as a unifying figure

• Silent protests, social media posts, and local gatherings continue despite restrictions

The difference between Martyrs Day and Maharaja Hari Singh Day reflects two contrasting interpretations of Kashmir's political history.

Impact of Article 370 Removal on Martyrs’ Day

The impact of Article 370 removal on Martyrs Day is evident in:

• The erasure of Martyrs’ Day, Jammu and Kashmir, from official calendars

• The rebranding of political narratives around historical events

• Increased tensions between regional parties and the central government

For SSC exams, this topic is highly relevant in both the General Awareness and Polity sections.

Key Facts for SSC Aspirants

• Date: 13 July

• Incident Year: 1931

• Victims: 22 Kashmiri Muslims

• Location: Srinagar Central Jail

• Ruler at that time: Maharaja Hari Singh (Dogra rule)

• Declared by: Sheikh Abdullah

• Holiday Status: Scrapped post-2019

• Replaced by: Maharaja Hari Singh Day

• Main parties involved: BJP, NC, PDP

• Focus term: Martyrs' Day, Jammu and Kashmir

Final Thoughts

Martyrs' Day Jammu and Kas,hmir continues to be more than just a remembrance—it’s a reflection of the region’s unresolved political history, identity, and struggle. The 1931 uprising against the Dogra regime marked the start of Kashmir’s political consciousness, and nearly a century later, it still echoes in today’s debates.

The removal of Article 370, shifting holiday narratives, and police crackdowns in 2025 have only deepened the divisions. For SSC aspirants, this is a vital current affairs topic that connects history, politics, and governance.

Understanding why Martyrs’ Day matters today helps decode Kashmir’s complex reality. As political parties clash over its legacy, the people of Kashmir continue to seek recognition for their past and clarity for their future.