Bukhari to visit Martyrs’ graveyard on July 13, renews call for statehood

Srinagar, Jul 10: Stating that his party has applied for a permission to visit martyrs graveyard on July 13, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Thursday reiterated his long-standing demand for the immediate restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, while also urging the Union Government to rebuild trust with the people through meaningful political engagement and an end to administrative discrimination.

Speaking at a well-attended workers’ convention at the party headquarters here, Bukhari emphasised the need for the Centre to “unmerge J&K from the AGMUT cadre” and restore its distinct bureaucratic and political identity. He accused the central government of backtracking on its promises made in the aftermath of the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir were stabbed and stripped of their legitimate rights on that day. We were promised engagement, development, and reconciliation—but those words are yet to translate into real action,” Bukhari said, addressing the gathering of senior party leaders and grassroots workers.

In a strongly worded appeal, the Apni Party chief demanded that July 13 be officially observed as Martyrs’ Day, commemorating the lives lost in 1931 during the uprising against the autocratic Dogra rule. Bukhari announced that he and his colleagues will visit the martyrs’ graveyard at Naqshband Sahib in Srinagar on the day to offer prayers and pay homage. He said the party has formally sought permission for the visit, adding that remembering these martyrs is vital for preserving J&K ’s historical and democratic consciousness.

He highlighted the desire to hold Fatiha Khawani and a public function to honor the martyrs, asserting that their sacrifices laid the foundation for the present-day Kashmir. The leader reminded the audience that demands like the restoration of statehood and protection of land and jobs were not new, citing his party’s longstanding agenda, which also includes halting demographic changes and ensuring the release of political prisoners.

During his address, Bukhari launched a scathing attack on both the central government and the regional administration for what he termed “deliberate political victimization and developmental discrimination.” “This government is punishing people for exercising their democratic rights. Individuals are being transferred, areas are being ignored in development plans, and basic services are being denied—all because of political choices made by the people,” he said.

Warning of mass protests, he added: “I am giving the administration two months to correct this discriminatory behaviour. If things do not change, we will be left with no option but to take to the streets.”

Referring to Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s earlier statements about engaging with the youth of Jammu and Kashmir rather than Pakistan, Bukhari urged the Centre to follow through on its commitment. “If the Government of India can initiate talks with the people of Leh and Kargil, Nagaland and Mizoram why can’t it do the same with the people of Jammu and Kashmir?” he asked.

Bukhari raised concerns over the continued detention of hundreds of youth, especially in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack. He shared the emotional account of a father whose son was arrested despite no criminal record, saying such actions are breeding alienation.

He also renewed his call for medical attention to jailed separatist leaders Shabir Ahmad Shah and Dr. Abdul Hameed Fayaz, and demanded a fair trial for Yasin Malik. “A democratic country must provide every citizen with due legal rights, including a fair trial and humane treatment,” Bukhari stressed.

Additionally, he urged the immediate conduct of long-pending Panchayat and Urban Local Body (ULB) elections, saying that denying people the right to elect their representatives is a grave injustice.

Highlighting the plight of Srinagar residents, especially in downtown areas, Bukhari painted a grim picture of overcrowded housing, youth unemployment, and infrastructure decay. “Multiple families are crammed into single rooms. Our youth are educated but jobless. They are being pushed to the wall,” he said.

Bukhari demanded a modern and inclusive housing policy for Srinagar, along with an efficient drainage system, to address the deteriorating urban infrastructure. He also called for revival and promotion of the traditional handicrafts sector to uplift artisans and preserve cultural heritage. Additionally, he demanded a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for Dal Lake dwellers, many of whom face displacement and livelihood threats.

In a direct appeal to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the Revenue portfolio, Bukhari urged him to amend the domicile eligibility rules. “Change the current 15-year domicile eligibility to a 50-year residency requirement. You have the power and discretion to do this, Omar Sahib. At least do this much for the people,” he pleaded.