Kashmir Martyrs' Day observed in Valley

Srinagar, July 13 (AN): Youme Shuhada-e-Kashmir or, the Kashmir Martyrs' Day was observed here on Monday in memory of 23 Kashmiris who died in 1931 while fighting against Dogra rule.

Various Kashmiri leaders including State Chief Omar Abdullah, New and Renewable Energy Minister and National Conference President Farooq Abdullah paid tributes to the 13 martyrs by offering flowers and garlands on the graves.

Main Opposition leader in the J-K State Assembly and President of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Mehbooba Mufti also visited the Mazar-e-Shuhada (martyrs' graveyard) and paid tributes to the martyrs.

Mehbooba, on this occasion, urged people to take steps for the sake of the Kashmir and appealed to make the State a place of dignity, peace and love.

To pay tribute to civilians who sacrificed their lives during last 20 years, the occasion was being observed.

Meanwhile, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chief of moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference, a separatist group, had called a shutdown and a march in memory of those who had laid down their lives in 1931.

Administrative authorities had to impose a curfew in Srinagar ahead of a 'Lal Chowk march' called by the separatists and police opened fire on people protesting outside Srinagar's Central Jail.

Demonstrators had gathered in front of the jail when the trial of a youth Abdul Qadeer accused of involvement in a case of agitation was going on inside the jail. (ANI)