Srinagar witnessed a significant protest  led by Iltija Mufti, as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rallied against alleged derogatory remarks made regarding the July 13 Martyrs during a recent session in the Legislative Assembly. The protest commenced at the PDP headquarters and aimed to march towards Lal Chowk, but was halted by police at Polo View.

Iltija Mufti, flanked by party leaders and supporters, voiced strong condemnation of the comments, emphasizing the historical significance of July 13, 1931, as a pivotal moment in Jammu Kashmir’s struggle for democracy. “The sacrifices made by the people of JK mirror those across the nation; their fight was against local oppression,” she asserted.

During the protest, Mufti expressed her appreciation to Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather for expunging the controversial remarks from the assembly records. However, she insisted on an unconditional apology from BJP leader Sunil Sharma, accusing the party of manipulating historical narratives for political gain.

“The BJP is attempting to distort our history with a divisive agenda. If they genuinely honor Maharaja Hari Singh, why have they revoked Jammu Kashmir’s state flag, its constitution, and the special status he negotiated during the accession?” Mufti questioned.

The PDP also reiterated its call to reinstate July 13 as a public holiday, criticizing the BJP-led administration for what they perceive as an erasure of Jammu Kashmir’s rich historical legacy.