Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD): With Martyrs’ Day around the corner, the Omar Abdullah-led government in Jammu and Kashmir has formally proposed reinstating July 13 and December 5 as official public holidays—moves seen as an attempt to restore key dates from the region’s political history. The final decision now lies with the Lieutenant Governor’s office.
July 13 marks Martyrs’ Day, commemorating the 1931 killing of 22 civilians outside Srinagar Central Jail during protests against autocratic rule. December 5 is the birth anniversary of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, widely regarded as the architect of modern Jammu and Kashmir and founder of the National Conference (NC). Both holidays were removed from the official calendar following the 2019 revocation of Article 370.
A senior NC leader, speaking anonymously, said the party had fulfilled its commitment to history and public sentiment. “The ball is now in the LG’s court. We have placed the proposal, and it’s up to Raj Bhawan to decide,” the leader said.
Meanwhile, NC General Secretary Ali Muhammad Sagar chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar to review preparations for the observance of Martyrs’ Day. The party has formally sought permission from the administration for a visit to the Martyrs’ Graveyard at Naqshband Sahib.
Despite uncertainty over the LG’s response, the party is going ahead with its plans to commemorate the occasion, reflecting what leaders describe as a commitment to protect “the historical and emotional milestones” of Kashmir’s political journey.
Whether the proposed holidays will be officially reinstated before July 13 remains uncertain—but for the National Conference, the message is clear: the demand for remembrance and recognition is non-negotiable.(DD)