Thu Mar 06 17:34:50 UTC 2025: ## Jammu and Kashmir CM Condemns BJP Leader’s Remarks on 1931 Martyrs
**Jammu, March 7, 2025** – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday strongly condemned BJP leader Sunil Sharma’s characterization of the 22 civilians killed in a 1931 uprising in Srinagar as “traitors,” not “martyrs.” Abdullah accused the BJP of denigrating the sacrifices of these Muslims who protested against Maharaja Hari Singh’s rule. He highlighted the subsequent formation of the Glancy and Dalal Commissions, demonstrating the significance of the uprising and the subsequent concessions made by the Maharaja. The Chief Minister emphasized that the BJP’s actions are an attempt to rewrite history and erase the contributions of Muslim protestors.
The PDP organized protests in the Kashmir Valley demanding an apology from Sharma. PDP leader Iltija Mufti stated that the BJP consistently tries to erase collective memory and history. CPI(M) leader M.Y. Tarigami also criticized Sharma’s remarks, calling for unity among parties to reclaim lost territories and rights. Tarigami further questioned the BJP’s stance on the 1846 Treaty of Amritsar and the separation of Ladakh from J&K.
Abdullah also criticized the BJP for removing July 13th and December 5th (the birthday of Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah) from the official holiday calendar. He accused the party of disrespecting the legacy of Maharaja Hari Singh by dismantling State Subject laws, which previously ensured jobs and land rights for locals. He called upon the Centre to reclaim Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), highlighting missed opportunities during the Kargil war.
Sharma’s comments were later expunged from the assembly records following protests from the Treasury Benches. The controversy underscores deep political divisions in Jammu and Kashmir and raises questions about the interpretation of historical events.
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