Srinagar: The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) solemnly remembered the martyrs of Bijbehara on the anniversary of their deaths, reinforcing the resolve of Kashmiris to achieve self-determination in accordance with United Nations resolutions.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the tragic incident occurred on October 22, 1993, when Indian Border Security Force personnel fatally shot over 50 Kashmiri civilians during a peaceful protest in Bijbehara, against the military encirclement of Srinagar’s Hazratbal shrine. This event is remembered as a significant atrocity in the region’s turbulent history.

APHC spokesperson Abdul Rashid Minhas issued a statement demanding an unbiased investigation into the Bijbehara massacre and other similar incidents involving Indian forces in occupied Kashmir. Minhas stressed that the cycle of violence and suffering would continue until justice is served and the Kashmir conflict is resolved in line with international guidelines.

Furthermore, Minhas encouraged the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir to maintain their unity and perseverance in the struggle for their inherent and UN-affirmed rights. He denounced the ongoing human rights abuses by Indian troops and the suppressive tactics of the BJP-led government.

Minhas also reflected on the significance of October 27, the date marking the Indian military’s arrival in Jammu and Kashmir in 1947, which he described as the beginning of India’s colonial imposition in the region. He called on locals to observe this day as Black Day, highlighting it as a period of mourning and remembrance.

He concluded by urging the United Nations to formally recognize the acts of state terrorism by India in Kashmir and to actively facilitate a resolution that aligns with the desires of the Kashmiri population.