PDP Raises Concerns Over Security Clampdown, Restrictions on July 13 Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday expressed serious concern over what it described as a continuing atmosphere of fear and uncertainty in Jammu and Kashmir. In a core committee meeting chaired by party president Mehbooba Mufti, party leaders discussed the impact of raids, searches, and coercive measures on civil life, alleging widespread harassment and insecurity among ordinary citizens.
The PDP spokesman said the committee noted that repeated searches and prolonged detentions have created an environment of constant apprehension, undermining democratic values. The party also highlighted the plight of hundreds of families whose members remain in jail for extended periods without timely conclusion of trials. In some cases, even after courts grant bail, fresh cases are filed, leading to continued incarceration, the party said.
The committee condemned restrictions imposed on the observance of July 13 Martyrs’ Day, describing them as inconsistent with democratic values. The PDP stated that while the nation commemorates those who fought against autocratic rule, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are prevented from paying homage to the martyrs of July 13, 1931, who died in a struggle against autocratic governance. The party argued that history cannot be erased through prohibitory orders or barricades.
Meanwhile, citing the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and associated traffic restrictions, the PDP resolved to observe its Foundation Day on July 28 through district-level conventions across Jammu and Kashmir instead of a central gathering.
The government has not officially responded to the allegations. Authorities typically impose restrictions during the Amarnath Yatra to ensure security and prevent law and order issues, and have cited security concerns for curbs on July 13 observances in the past.
