Events of July 13, 1931, and the Beginning of the Azadi Movement in Kashmir

Background

Kashmir under Dogra Rule: The princely state of Jammu and Kashmir, ruled by the Dogra dynasty since
1846, was a region with a Muslim-majority population governed by Hindu rulers. The Dogra rulers,
particularly Maharaja Hari Singh, implemented policies that led to socio-economic disparities, including
high taxes on Muslims, limited educational and employment opportunities, and discriminatory legal
practices. These injustices fostered resentment among Kashmiri Muslims, setting the stage for political
unrest.

Key Preceding Events

1. Religious and Property Rights Violations:

o Conversion Case in Udhampur: A businessman who converted to Islam had his property
confiscated and given to his brother. This was in line with a decree issued by the Dogra
government in 1882, which stated that converts to Islam forfeited their property unless
they re-entered the Hindu faith.

o Khutbah Incident on April 29, 1931: Police interference during a Khutbah (sermon) led
to public outcry. Mir Hussain Bakhsh's protest against excessive interference in religious
matters incited further demonstrations.

o Desecration of the Quran: On June 4, 1931, police constable Fazal Dad Khan's Panjsurah
(Quranic text) was thrown away by a sub-inspector in Jammu's Central Jail, sparking
anger among Muslims.

o Quran Desecration in Srinagar: On June 20, 1931, leaves of the Quran were found in a
public lavatory in Srinagar, escalating tensions.

2. Abdul Qadeer Khan's Arrest:

o Speech at Khanqah-i-Maula: Abdul Qadeer Khan, an employee of an English officer,

delivered an impassioned speech on June 21, 1931, urging Kashmiris to resist
oppression. His speech, recorded by authorities, led to his arrest on June 25, 1931, on
charges of sedition.

July 13, 1931 - The Martyrs' Day

1. Protest at Central Jail, Srinagar:

o Thousands of Kashmiri Muslims gathered outside the Central Jail in Srinagar on July 13,
1931, demanding Abdul Qadeer Khan's release. The crowd, denied entry, attempted to
storm the jail.

o As noon prayers (Adhan) began, the police, under orders from Governor Raizada Trilok
Chand, opened fire on the unarmed protestors. The muezzin (the person calling for
 prayer) was shot dead, followed by the second muezzin, and indiscriminate firing
ensued.

2. Casualties and Aftermath:

o Official records state that 17 Muslims were killed on the spot, with several others
succumbing to their injuries later. The Hindu newspaper reported 21 deaths.

o The bodies were buried in the graveyard of the Shrine of Khwaja Bahawuddin
Naqshbandi in Srinagar, known today as Mazar-e-Shuhada or the Martyrs' Graveyard.

3. Reactions:

o The massacre provoked widespread outrage and galvanized the Kashmiri Muslim
community. It marked a pivotal moment in the history of Kashmir, as the people began
to organize more effectively against Dogra rule.

Beginning of the Azadi Movement

1. Political Mobilization:
o The tragic events of July 13, 1931, united the Kashmiri Muslims in their struggle for
justice and self-determination. Political organizations began to form, advocating for the
rights of Kashmiri Muslims and pushing for an end to Dogra rule.
2. Formation of Political Bodies:
o The All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference, founded in 1932, emerged as a
prominent political organization advocating for the rights of Muslims in Kashmir. This
organization would later evolve into the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference,
playing a crucial role in the region's political landscape.
3. Continued Struggle:
o The massacre and subsequent political mobilization set the stage for the broader Azadi
(freedom) movement. Over the years, the demand for independence from Dogra rule
evolved into a call for freedom from Indian rule following the partition of British India in
1947.
4. Commemoration:
o July 13 was observed as Kashmir Martyrs' Day, a state holiday in Jammu and Kashmir,
until its removal in December 2019 by the Government of India. It remains a day of
remembrance in Pakistan and for Kashmiris who honor the sacrifices made by the
protestors.

Conclusion

The events of July 13, 1931, mark a watershed moment in the history of Kashmir, symbolizing the
beginning of the organized struggle against oppression and for self-determination. The massacre outside
the Central Jail in Srinagar and the subsequent martyrdom of 21 Muslims catalyzed the Azadi movement,
uniting the Kashmiri Muslim community and laying the foundation for future political mobilization and
resistance. This day remains a significant historical milestone, remembered for the courage and sacrifice
of those who fought against the injustices of the Dogra rule.