The Modi-led Indian government continues its aggressive campaign to suppress Kashmir's historical and religious identity, with fresh restrictions imposed on Martyrs’ Day commemorations, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Tuesday.
According to the report, in a blatant attempt to erase the memory of Kashmiri resistance, the administration has denied permission to hold events marking the martyrdom of those who laid down their lives opposing the autocratic rule of Maharaja Hari Singh.
According to NDTV, the commemoration of Kashmiri martyrs has been removed from the list of official holidays, while multiple areas in Srinagar have been placed under tight restrictions.
The Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s administration refused to allow even a memorial event at the Martyrs’ Graveyard—an action widely seen as an effort to silence public memory.
Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticised the move, saying, "Democracy in Jammu and Kashmir has become a tool for unelected tyranny. Delhi's handpicked appointees have imprisoned the people's chosen representatives."
PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti condemned the siege around the cemetery, calling it "a sign of a frightened administration".
J&K Peoples Conference President Sajad Lone accused the central government of trying to rewrite Kashmir’s history.
Since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, Kashmir’s special status has been stripped, and all commemorative events honouring Kashmiri martyrs have been banned.
Adding further insult, the Modi government has declared Maharaja Hari Singh’s birthday a public holiday—a move viewed by Kashmiris as a direct affront to their martyrs and collective struggle for freedom.
Reporter: Ahmad Mansoor