Kashmir Martyrs Day: Honoring 22 Lives Sacrificed for One Call to Prayer
Introduction
Every year on July 13, Kashmiris across the globe observe Kashmir Martyrs’ Day to remember the 22 brave men who were killed in 1931 while trying to complete the Adhan (Islamic call to prayer) during a protest outside Srinagar Central Jail.
This day marks not just a tragic memory, but the beginning of a long and painful freedom struggle for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
What Happened on July 13, 1931?
On that day, a peaceful protest was being held outside Srinagar Central Jail against the arrest of Kashmiri political prisoners under Dogra rule.
During the protest:
- A Kashmiri man stood up to give the Adhan
- Dogra soldiers shot him dead
- Another man took his place and was also killed
- This continued until the Adhan was completed, but 22 Kashmiris were martyred in the process
This act of faith and defiance ignited the flame of resistance and self-determination in Kashmir.
Global Observance and Memorials
Today, July 13 is marked with:
- Prayer gatherings across Jammu & Kashmir, Azad Kashmir, and worldwide
- Peaceful rallies honoring the martyrs
- Statements of solidarity from Pakistani leadership and civil society
Leadership Pays Tribute to the Martyrs
🟢 President Asif Ali Zardari said:
“The sacrifice of the martyrs lit a torch of freedom in the hearts of Kashmiris that still burns bright. Pakistan will continue to support their just struggle.”
- Condemned India’s illegal occupation of Jammu & Kashmir
- Highlighted ongoing human rights violations such as:
- Extrajudicial killings
- Enforced disappearances
- Political imprisonment
- Demographic changes
- Erasure of Muslim identity
🟢 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said:
“This day reminds us of the inherited strength and resistance of Kashmiri Muslims. Their unwavering courage against oppression is an inspiration.”
- Reaffirmed Pakistan’s political, diplomatic, and moral support
- Called for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute according to UN Security Council Resolutions
India’s Occupation: A Human Rights Crisis
The leadership emphasized the worsening human rights situation in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, describing it as:
- A militarized prison
- A zone of state terrorism
- A site of cultural and demographic aggression
FAQs: Understanding Kashmir Martyrs’ Day
❓ What is Kashmir Martyrs’ Day?
It is observed every year on July 13 to honor the 22 Kashmiris martyred in 1931 during a protest, while attempting to complete the Adhan.
❓ Why were the 22 Kashmiris killed?
They were shot by Dogra soldiers during a peaceful protest outside Srinagar jail, simply for completing the call to prayer.
❓ Why is this day significant?
It marks the beginning of the freedom movement in Kashmir and symbolizes sacrifice, resistance, and spiritual strength.
❓ What does Pakistan do on this day?
Pakistan holds national tributes, official statements, and prayer events, and reaffirms its full support for the Kashmiri cause
❓ What are the global demands regarding Kashmir?
International human rights groups and Pakistan urge the world to:
Take immediate notice of Indian atrocities
Support Kashmiris’ right to self-determination
Pressure India to follow UN resolutions
Conclusion
Kashmir Martyrs’ Day is more than just a remembrance — it’s a reminder of resistance, sacrifice, and the unshakable spirit of a people striving for freedom. The story of 22 martyrs completing the Adhan under gunfire is not just a historical event; it’s a symbol of faith, courage, and resilience.
As Pakistan’s leadership pays tribute and the world watches, the demand for justice, peace, and the right to self-determination in Kashmir grows louder. Until the dreams of these martyrs are fulfilled, their memory will live on in the hearts of millions.
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