Srinagar: Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and around the world observed Jammu Martyrs’ Day on Friday to reaffirm their commitment to the cause of self-determination as recognized by the United Nations. The day marks the tragic events of November 6, 1947, when hundreds of thousands of Kashmiris were killed by forces of the then Maharaja Hari Singh, Indian troops, and affiliated groups while attempting to migrate to Pakistan.

According to Radio Pakistan, the massacres took place across various parts of the Jammu region during the first week of November 1947. The events have been described by Hurriyat leaders and organizations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir as one of the most somber and grievous episodes in the history of Kashmir. In statements issued from Srinagar, these leaders referred to the massacre as a significant act of genocide and ethnic cleansing.

The Hurriyat leaders and organizations further alleged that the 1947 massacre was part of a deliberate plan to alter the demographic composition of Jammu by reducing its Muslim majority to a minority. They have called on the international community to pay attention to what they describe as ongoing human rights violations by Indian forces in the region.