Mehbooba pays tribute to July 13 martyrs, says Amarnath attack condemnation proves Kashmiriyat is alive

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday paid tributes to the martyrs of 1931, who laid down their lives fighting the autocratic rule in the state.

On the occasion, Mehbooba said the overwhelming condemnation of the Amarnath attack by Kashmiris has proved that the eclectic culture and tradition known as ‘Kashmiriyat’ is alive.

She said despite the atmosphere of fear and terror, Kashmiris cutting across political and ideological divide have overwhelmingly condemned the attack.

Seven pilgrims were killed and nineteen injured after their bus was caught in cross-fire after following a militant attack on government forces in Botengoo area of Anantnag on Monday night, police said.

Early on Thursday, the Chief Minister arrived at the Martyrs’ graveyard in Khawaja Bazar area of the old city here. She was accompanied by senior Ministers of the ruling PDP.

A guard of honour was presented by a contingent of the state police and floral tributes were paid.

On July 13, 1931, 22 people were killed in firing by the forces of Maharaja outside the Srinagar Central Jail, where an in-camera trial of Abdul Qadeer, a freedom fighter, was being held.

The crowd was protesting in central jail against the detention of Qadeer when the forces of Maharaja opened fire.

A strict curfew was imposed in Khawaja Bazar and other areas of old city to prevent protests and rallies.