Why Did CM Omar Abdullah Scale the Graveyard Gate Amidst Security Confrontation?
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Synopsis
On July 14, CM Omar Abdullah and NC leaders faced off against security forces during a tribute visit to the Martyrs' graveyard in Srinagar. This unexpected confrontation raises questions about public access to historical commemorations and the government's role in such events.
Key Takeaways
- CM Omar Abdullah faced physical resistance from security forces during a visit to the Martyrs' graveyard.
- The visit commemorated the victims of the July 13, 1931, shooting.
- Authorities imposed restrictions on public access to the graveyard.
- The NC government is advocating for the restoration of historic public holidays.
- This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions in Jammu and Kashmir.
Srinagar, July 14 (NationPress) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with former CM Dr. Farooq Abdullah and several ministers from the NC government, made an unexpected visit to the Martyrs' graveyard in Srinagar on Monday, resulting in intense confrontations with security personnel and a forceful entry.
The visit was aimed at commemorating those who lost their lives on July 13, 1931, during a shooting by the forces of the Dogra Maharaja.
CM Omar Abdullah shared a video on X showing him being physically restrained by security personnel while attempting to access the Martyrs' graveyard.
“This is the physical grappling I faced, but I am resilient and refused to be deterred. I wasn't engaging in any unlawful activity. Instead, these 'defenders of the law' should clarify under which regulation they were impeding our right to offer Fatiha,” stated the CM.
Accompanying CM Omar Abdullah were his father Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary, advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, and other NC ministers as they proceeded to the Martyrs' Graveyard in old city Srinagar. They offered ‘Fateha’ prayers and laid floral tributes at the graves of those who perished during the 1931 incident, when a mob clashed with prison guards while a Pathan named Abdul Qadeer was tried for inciting unrest against the Dogra Maharaja's regime.
On this day, authorities enforced restrictions, denying all requests for permission to visit the graveyard as mandated by the district magistrate.
NC leaders, including CM Omar Abdullah, expressed on X that people had been 'confined' within their homes to prevent them from attending the Martyrs' Graveyard, which included leaders from the ruling party.
While some ministers traveled in the CM's convoy, Education Minister Sakina Itoo opted to ride as a passenger on a scooter to reach the Martyrs' Graveyard since her official vehicle was prohibited from entering the site.
The CM's cavalcade, which included Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Deputy CM Choudhary, and advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, was not obstructed by security forces while en route to the Martyrs' graveyard.
However, upon nearing the site, CM Omar Abdullah climbed over a barricade and engaged in a struggle with the security personnel stationed there.
“I paid my respects and offered Fatiha at the graves of the martyrs of July 13, 1931. The unelected government attempted to obstruct my path, forcing me to walk from Nawhatta Chowk. They blocked access to Naqshband Sb shrine, compelling me to climb a wall. They tried to physically restrain me, but I would not be deterred today,” wrote the CM on his X account.
It is noteworthy that prior to August 5, 2019, when Article 370 was revoked and Jammu and Kashmir was divided into two union territories, July 13 was recognized as a government holiday.
After August 2019, July 13 and December 5, which marks the birthday of NC founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, were removed from the official holiday list. The NC government has called for the reinstatement of both holidays.
Point of View
It's essential to present an unbiased perspective on the recent events in Jammu and Kashmir. The confrontation at the Martyrs' graveyard highlights the ongoing tension between political leaders and security forces, raising important questions about public access to historical sites and the implications of governmental restrictions.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during CM Omar Abdullah's visit to the Martyrs' graveyard?
CM Omar Abdullah, along with NC leaders, faced confrontations with security forces as they attempted to pay tribute to martyrs of July 13, 1931, highlighting ongoing tensions in the region.
Why was there security at the Martyrs' graveyard?
Authorities imposed restrictions to prevent large gatherings, disallowing applications for permission to visit the graveyard.
What historical event does July 13 commemorate?
July 13 commemorates those who were killed in 1931 during a shooting by the Dogra Maharaja's forces.
What is the significance of the NC's demand for holiday restoration?
The NC government is advocating for the reinstatement of July 13 and December 5 as public holidays, which were removed after the revocation of Article 370 in 2019.
How did CM Omar Abdullah express his concerns on social media?
CM Omar Abdullah utilized X to communicate his experience of being obstructed by security forces during his visit, emphasizing his determination to honor the martyrs.
