SRINAGAR: The Indian-occupied region of Jammu and Kashmir, January has a dark history marked by brutal massacres committed by Indian troops and paramilitary forces. An analytical report released by Kashmir Media Service sheds light on five major incidents, including the infamous Magarmal Bagh massacre, that have left indelible scars on the Kashmiri population.
Magarmal Bagh Massacre (January 19, 1991)
Indian paramilitary forces carried out a brutal massacre in Srinagar’s Magarmal Bagh area, leaving 14 civilians dead. Justice for the victims remains elusive even after 33 years, symbolizing the ongoing struggle for accountability.
Gaw Kadal Massacre (January 21, 1990)
Indian troops slaughtered over 50 civilians in the Gaw Kadal area of Srinagar during a peaceful protest against the molestation of women by the forces. The incident underscores the indiscriminate use of force against unarmed demonstrators.
Sopore Town Massacre (January 06, 1993)
On January 6, 1993, Indian soldiers set Sopore town ablaze, resulting in the martyrdom of over 60 civilians and the destruction of numerous structures. The victims’ families still await justice, highlighting the impunity enjoyed by the perpetrators.
Handwara Massacre (January 25, 1990)
In Handwara town, Indian troops gunned down at least 25 Kashmiris on January 25, 1990. The incident adds to the series of violent crackdowns on civilian populations, reflecting the deep-rooted tensions in the region.
Kupwara Massacre (January 27, 1994)
A day after India’s Republic Day, Indian troops massacred 27 civilians in Kupwara town. The report suggests that these massacres, aimed at instilling fear, serve as a stark reminder of the criminal actions perpetrated by Hindutva forces.
The report highlights a total of 634 people killed and billions of rupees worth of property ruined in around 30 massacres since January 1990. Despite international concerns raised by organizations like Genocide Watch and Human Rights Watch, the fear persists that the BJP-RSS nexus plans more such atrocities in the occupied Kashmir.
As India celebrates its Republic Day on January 26, the people of Kashmir are urged to observe it as a Black Day to protest against the forcible occupation. The posters circulating in the region call for special prayers to honor the martyrs and emphasize the rejection of India’s illegal occupation.
In the face of persistent atrocities, Kashmiris continue to hold onto their aspiration for freedom, seeking global intervention to halt the ongoing genocide perpetrated by Indian forces.
