PDP expresses concern over ‘atmosphere of fear’, ‘July 13 Martyrs’ Day curbs’ in J&K

The Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Sunday expressed “serious concern” over what it described as “the continuing atmosphere of fear and uncertainty prevailing in Jammu and Kashmir”. 

At a meeting of the party’s core committee, chaired by president Mehbooba Mufti, a PDP spokesman said, “Members noted that the persistent culture of raids, repeated searches and coercive measures has cast a shadow over normal civic life, creating a widespread sense of harassment and insecurity among ordinary citizens. The leadership observed that a democratic society cannot flourish where people continue to live under an environment of constant apprehension.”

The spokesman said an in-depth discussion on the “unending trauma being faced by hundreds of families whose loved ones continue to languish in jails for prolonged periods, often without timely conclusion of trials, was held”. 

“In several cases, even after courts grant bail, fresh cases are registered, resulting in continued incarceration. Such practices, the Committee said, deepen public alienation and raise serious questions about the credibility of institutions that people expect would safeguard their constitutional and legal rights,” the spokesman said.

The Committee also condemned the restrictions imposed on the observance of July 13 Martyrs’ Day.

“It’s deeply unfortunate and inconsistent with democratic values. While the entire nation rightly commemorates those who fought against autocratic and colonial rule, the people of Jammu & Kashmir are repeatedly prevented from paying homage to the martyrs of 13 July 1931, who laid down their lives in the struggle against autocratic governance, years before similar movements gained momentum in many other parts of the country. History cannot be erased through prohibitory orders, barricades or restrictions,” said the spokesman.

Meanwhile, citing the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and traffic restrictions, the PDP also resolved to observe its Foundation Day on July 28 through district-level conventions across Jammu & Kashmir instead of a central gathering.