July 13 martyrs fought for democracy, constitution: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary

Jammu, Mar 05: Jammu and Kashmir’s Minister for Industries and Commerce, Surinder Kumar Chaudhary on Wednesday criticized the opposition for its remarks on July 13 martyrs, saying the language were inappropriate.

"Martyrs should be respected, no matter from which community they belong. They fought for upholding democracy, safeguarding constitution and the rights of the people," Chaudhary said, insisting the need to honor those who made sacrifices for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

His comments come amid the ongoing political debate surrounding historical decisions and the legacy of Jammu and Kashmir’s erstwhile rulers in Assembly.

Taking a dig at opposition BJP leaders, he questioned their selective praise for the regions past rulers. "If these people love the Maharaja so much why BJP abrogated Article 370 and 35(A) granted by Maharaja Hari Singh, and stripped down the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories. Why don’t they speak about this?” he questioned.