The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] on Monday said that unity among the people and sustained struggle for the restoration of democratic and constitutional rights was the only way forward for Jammu and Kashmir, as the union territory observed the historic July 13 martyrs' day.

 

In a statement issued here, CPI(M) J&K State Secretary Mohammad Abass Rather recalled the supreme sacrifices of those who laid down their lives in 1931 against the autocratic rule of the time, asserting that the day would continue to inspire future generations to fight political and economic injustices.

 

"The memory of July 13 martyrs cannot be erased from our hearts and history by merely cancelling the holiday on this day," Rather said, while criticising the restrictions imposed on people wishing to visit the Mazar-e-Shohda to pay homage.

 

The CPI(M) leader also voiced concern over the post-August 5, 2019 changes in land and job laws, stating that the unique land reforms achieved after the overthrow of autocratic rule were being altered, adversely impacting the security of land and employment for the people of J&K.

 

He further alleged that tall claims of generating huge employment opportunities since the abrogation of Article 370 had turned out to be a farce on the ground. "People are harassed on one pretext or another by some sections of law-enforcing agencies, widening the trust deficit," he said, adding that several individuals were languishing in jails, particularly outside J&K, without trial.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

Referring to the 2024 assembly elections, Rather said that despite massive public participation, the mandate was not being appreciated by those in authority in Delhi. "The bureaucracy is ruling the roost, adversely impacting public service delivery in Jammu and Kashmir," he added.

 

The CPI(M) leader said the people of J&K were realising through their own experiences that restoration of statehood, along with the protection of land and job rights and freedom of expression, were issues of vital importance requiring a united resolve.

 

"Broader unity and struggle for immediate issues concerning the well-being of the people and restoration of democratic and constitutional rights is the only way forward," he said.

 

Rather also informed that the party had applied to the district administration for permission to proceed to the Mazar-e-Shohda to pay floral tributes but was not allowed to do so.

 

"The real tribute to the martyrs demands a firm resolve to continue the struggle for a better future for our people," he added. (KNS)