Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir sealed all roads leading to the Martyrs' Graveyard in Srinagar’s Nowhatta area on Sunday, citing potential law and order concerns during Martyrs' Day commemorations. Heavy deployments of police and paramilitary forces were stationed at entry points to the city, allowing only official and security vehicles to pass through barricades, officials confirmed.

The National Conference (NC), the ruling party, had sought permission from the Srinagar District Magistrate to hold a homage ceremony at the graveyard to honor the martyrs of July 13, 1931, when Kashmiris were killed by the Dogra army while protesting against Maharaja rule. However, the district administration denied the request, prompting strong backlash from the NC.

In a public advisory posted on X, Srinagar Police stated, "The District Administration Srinagar has denied permission to all applicants intending to proceed towards Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta on July 13, 2025." The police urged the public to comply, warning that violations would face strict legal consequences.

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NC chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq called the decision "deeply unfortunate," emphasizing the significance of the day. "July 13 is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made for dignity, justice, and rights," he posted on X. He vowed that the people of Kashmir would continue to honor their martyrs peacefully and with resolve.

The NC also alleged that several of its leaders, including senior members, an advisor to the Chief Minister, and multiple sitting MLAs, were placed under house arrest since Saturday night. Sadiq described the move as a "deliberate attempt to suppress remembrance" and an "unjustified" disregard for history. "Such actions are deeply insensitive and troubling," he added.

Before the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories in August 2019, July 13 was observed as a public holiday. The tradition involved mainstream political leaders visiting the Martyrs' Graveyard to pay tributes. However, the day was removed from the list of gazetted holidays in 2020, a move that continues to spark controversy.

The restrictions and alleged house arrests have heightened tensions, with the NC condemning the administration’s actions as an affront to the region’s history and the right to commemorate its martyrs.

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