You can erase our hearts, but not the memory of July 13 martyrs: Tarigami

Srinagar, July 13(PTK): You can erase our hearts, but how will you erase the memory of the July 13 martyrs?” asked MY Tarigami, CPI(M) leader and MLA from Kulgam, as he questioned the administration over restrictions on paying respects at the Martyrs’ Graveyard in Srinagar.

Tarigami was placed under house arrest on Sunday, with his gates locked to prevent him from stepping out on the occasion of Martyrs’ Day.

“13th July is an integral part of J&K’s history. This date has been etched into our memory because of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the prosperity of democracy in Jammu and Kashmir, for self-determination, and for a new beginning,” he said.

He added that no matter what today’s political parties claim, the reality remains that July 13 marks a historic movement—from Kashmir to Jammu—against meaninglessness, aristocracy, and authoritarianism. “It is a part of our identity. It cannot be erased.”

Referring to the abrogation of Article 370, Tarigami said, “August 5, 2019, was a big event, a major assault on our identity. And this identity is linked to July 13. I don’t see it separately. That’s why we don’t accept that deal, that assault. History will judge, and we hope that people will get an opportunity again.”

Targeting those questioning the significance of the day, he said, “Some are now even uncomfortable with the names of the martyrs. If someone benefits from this erasure, it is their loss too. On behalf of CPI-M and the larger community, I repeat: this day is part of who we are.”

Tarigami added that even writers like Prem Nath Bazaz have documented the importance of this day. “Such sacrifices have rarely been seen in any movement. Yes, mistakes have happened in history, and correction is needed. But July 13 was a clear message to the rulers of that time, who followed the path of Tana Shahi (autocracy), Jagirdari (feudalism), and Sahukari (moneylending exploitation).”

“Ask the people of Jammu—didn’t July 13 bring reforms? Ask the Dalits, the Kashkars (tillers). Didn’t they get land? Didn’t they get the right to education and means of livelihood? This day belongs to all of us.”

CPI(M) leader added that whether or not the government announces a holiday, the day will remain alive in the hearts of the people. “The history of rulers may differ, but the history of the people is different. This day is in our hearts. You can erase our hearts, but how will you erase this memory? That is my question to the rulers,” he said. (PTK)