Srinagar, Mar 6: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday asserted that July 13, 1931, marked the first call for democracy in Jammu and Kashmir, as people rose against the monarchy while the rest of the country was fighting for independence.
“While the entire nation was struggling for freedom and democratic ideals, the people of Jammu and Kashmir also made sacrifices to be part of the same movement. The only difference was that their fight was against the local monarchy,” the party said.
Hitting out at the BJP, the PDP accused the party of distorting historical facts for political gains. “The BJP is attempting to rewrite history with a divisive narrative. If they truly respect Maharaja Hari Singh, why did they revoke the state flag, the constitution, and the special status that he had ensured for the people of J&K at the time of accession after negotiations with the Government of India?” the statement read.
The PDP reiterated its demand for the reinstatement of July 13 as a public holiday, accusing the BJP-led administration of erasing J&K’s historical identity and legacy. [KNT]
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