In remembrance: Kashmir Martyrs Day observed

MIRPUR:

Seminars, symposiums and public gatherings marked the 81st Kashmir Martyrs Day across Azad Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, with speakers paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for Kashmir’s freedom.

The day was officially declared as a holiday to facilitate people participating in proceedings.

In Mirpur, a ceremony was held by the National Events Organising Committee. Participants prayed for those who lost their lives in their struggle for freedom.

Kashmir Martyrs Day is observed every year on July 13 to express solidarity with 22 Kashmiris who were killed by Dogra troops for protesting over the trial of a young man for treason.

The under-trial prisoner, Abdul Qadeer, had been arrested for making a violent speech against Dogra ruler at a gathering of nearly 50,000 people. The tragedy triggered a violent movement that spread across the state and continues to be remembered even after eight decades.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 14^th, 2012.