Srinagar | : President Jammu & Kashmir Peoples’ Democratic Front (J&K PDF) and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Monday criticized Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) for paying tributes at Mazaar-e-Shohada on July 14 instead of the historically significant July 13.
In a statement issued here on Monday Hakeem said that this shift is disrespect to the martyrs and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that July 13 holds a unique place in history. Yaseen further said that while people are at liberty to visit and pray at any time, political leaders have a duty to honour dates of historical significance. He said that if NC leaders were genuinely committed to honoring the martyrs, they would not have been absent from the observance on July 13. He criticized the presence of Deputy Chief Minister in Jammu on that date, implying a disregard for the occasion. Yaseen also condemned Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s actions at Mazaar-e-Shohada, labeling them as inappropriate and indicative of the party’s casual attitude towards solemn events. Yaseen asserted that the JKNC’s actions not only disrespected the martyrs but also betrayed the aspirations of the people who previously supported them. He accused the party of exploiting traditions for political gains and warned against manipulating historical sentiments for optics, which he believes undermines the collective memory of Kashmiris. He called upon political parties to demonstrate genuine commitment to the legacy of the martyrs of 1931, emphasizing that true tribute lies in supporting the people and safeguarding their dignity and democratic rights.
