MIRPUR (AJK) – Arrangements are in place to honor Jammu Martyrs Day on November 6 (Wednesday), with solemnity and reverence, across the Line of Control in Jammu & Kashmir and among communities around the world. This observance pays tribute to the brave Muslim residents of Jammu city who made the ultimate sacrifice while migrating to the newly-formed Pakistan 77 years ago.
In November 1947, approximately 700,000 Muslims from Jammu city and surrounding areas were brutally killed during a week-long genocide orchestrated by the oppressive forces of the Dogra rulers, aided by armed Hindu extremists. Among these martyrs, over 250,000 Muslims lost their lives on November 6, 1947, as they attempted to flee to Sialkot, seeking refuge from the violent attacks and state-sponsored terrorism perpetrated by the Dogra and Indian armed forces.
Our special correspondent, Altaf Hamid Rao, reports from Mirpur AJK that this year’s commemoration coincides with heightened sentiments of freedom in Kashmir, following over five years of persistent protests against India’s actions. Since the revocation of the special status of Jammu & Kashmir on August 5, 2019, communication and information flow have been severely restricted, yet the people of the region have remained steadfast in their resistance.
Final preparations are underway for this significant day in the history of the Jammu & Kashmir freedom struggle, with observances planned on both sides of the LoC and in various global communities. Each year, Kashmiris gather to honor the immense sacrifices made by over 250,000 individuals, including men, women, children, and the elderly, who were mercilessly slaughtered as they fled toward Sialkot.
As in previous years, the observance will serve as a renewal of commitment to the cause of the Kashmiri martyrs, reinforcing the resolve to continue the struggle for the freedom of occupied Jammu & Kashmir until victory is achieved. A public holiday will be declared across Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) to enable participation in ceremonies and special prayer meetings to honor the martyrs.
Various events, including seminars, symposiums, and prayer gatherings, will take place in towns and districts throughout AJK, including Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, Kotli, Bhimbher, Bagh, Rawalakot, Palandri, Havaili, Hattiyan, and Neelam Valley, as well as in areas of Pakistan populated by Jammu & Kashmir refugees.
In Mirpur, a dedicated prayer meeting is scheduled for the morning of November 6, organized by local Jammuwal groups. Participants will pray for the elevation of the souls of all martyrs, including those who fought for the liberation of Jammu & Kashmir from Indian occupation.
Similar prayer gatherings will be hosted by various social, political, religious, and civic organizations, emphasizing the historical significance of Jammu Martyrs Day in the freedom movement. The day will begin with special prayers at dawn in prominent mosques, seeking the early liberation of occupied Jammu & Kashmir and the prosperity of Pakistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. Quran recitations in memory of the Kashmiri martyrs will be conducted at multiple locations, organized by community groups.
