CPI (M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and National Conference chief spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq have criticised the decision to omit July 13 and December 5 from Jammu and Kashmir's official holiday list for 2025. Both leaders labelled the move as "regrettable" and misrepresenting history.
In a statement from the party headquarters Nawa-e-Subha, Tanvir Sadiq condemned the exclusion of holidays commemorating Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s death anniversary and the 13th Martyr's Day. Tanvir expressed disappointment over the Bharatiya Janata Party's decision. He said it disregards Kashmir's rich history and the democratic struggle of its people.
"We had hoped to see holidays commemorating revered leaders such as Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and the martyrs of July 13th included in the list,” he said. “However, their absence does not diminish their significance or the enduring legacy they have left behind. Rest assured, these important holidays will be restored one day."
Tarigami echoed similar sentiments on X. He described the omission as "very unfortunate." He highlighted July 13’s historical importance, honouring those who stood against autocratic rule and the significance of December 5 in commemorating Sheikh Abdullah’s contributions to democratisation, land reforms, free education and women's empowerment.
Tarigami warned that eliminating these commemorations undermines the values and milestones they represent. "Erasing such pivotal markers from public memory weakens the foundation of our shared history. Distorting it will serve no constructive purpose," he said.
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Sheikh Abdullah is the founder of the NC and was prime minister of Jammu and Kashmir from 1947 to 1953. He later became chief minister in 1977, following the 1975 Indira-Sheikh Accord.
In November, the Omar-led government formally submitted a proposal to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, requesting the reinstatement of the holiday. However, no action has been taken, leaving the matter in limbo as 2025 draws closer.
The absence of Sheikh Abdullah’s birthday from the official holiday list underscores the ongoing power struggle between elected representatives and the lieutenant governor’s office. As the debate continues, excluding these significant dates serves as a reminder of the shifting political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir.
