Martyrs’ day observed : CM pays tributes

Geelani had called for a march to Naqshband Sahib graveyard in Khanyar area of the city where the martyrs of 1931 are buried.

The Mirwaiz faction had announced that it will take out a “peaceful rally” from Jamia Masjid to the Martyrs’ graveyard to pay homage to the heroes of Kashmir’s “freedom struggle”.

More than 22 men were shot dead by the soldiers of Kashmir’s Dogra ruler on July 13,1931 after the people of Kashmir rose against the autocratic rule of the Maharaja for their rights.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other National Conference leaders paid tributes to the martyrs by laying floral wreaths and offering prayers. Omar and his entourage arrived at the venue amidst tight security. Although some National Conference workers living in the vicinity of the martyrs’ graveyard had assembled at graveyard,the Chief Minister did not address them.

Curfew-like situation prevailed in downtown Srinagar as authorities imposed Section 144,which bans assembly of four or more persons at any place without prior permission.

The restrictions on movement of people were imposed in the police station areas of Nowhatta,Khanyar,Rainawari,Safakadal and Maharajgunj to prevent any illegal gathering of people,the officials said.

Meanwhile,normal life was affected due to the strike called by moderate faction of Hurriyat Conference. Shops and business establishments remained closed in the entire city. The effect of strike was accentuated by the restrictions imposed by the authorities and on account of public holiday.