Kashmiris observe martyrdom anniversary of youth leader Burhan Wani

Islamabad (Web Desk): Kashmiris across both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) and around the globe marked the 9th death anniversary of the prominent youth leader Burhan Muzaffar Wani on Tuesday, remembering him as a powerful figure in the ongoing struggle for Kashmiri freedom.

Wani, who became a symbol of resistance against Indian rule, continues to inspire the people of Kashmir with his unwavering commitment and ultimate sacrifice for the cause of independence.

Seen by many as a courageous representative of his oppressed nation, Burhan Wani is regarded as a heroic figure who stood up against what they view as India’s decades-long suppression of Kashmiri voices.

Each year, on this day, people across the region reaffirm their commitment to the mission for which Wani and more than 600,000 Kashmiris are believed to have given their lives since 1947.

Burhan Wani lost his life during what is widely described by Kashmiri sources as a staged encounter by Indian forces in the Kokernag area of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on July 8, 2016.

The anniversary of his killing is observed as Resistance Day in various parts of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Across districts, rallies, gatherings, and seminars were organized by groups such as the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Commission, Pasban-e-Hurriyat, along with other Hurriyat platforms and political movements.

These events served as opportunities for people to pay tribute to Burhan Wani and his fellow fighters who have died in pursuit of self-determination.

In the AJK capital of Muzaffarabad, a disciplined group of 313 youth participated in a ceremonial tribute at Azim Nabubat Chowk, saluting the memory of Burhan Wani and all Kashmiri martyrs. Participants waved both Pakistani and Kashmiri flags, and the national anthems of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir were played in their honor.

Youth participants raised powerful slogans including “Kashmiri youth will take freedom from India,” “This is a war of liberation,” “Burhan, your blood sparked a revolution,” and “Pakistan se rishta kya? La Ilaha Illa Allah.”

Speakers at the events emphasized that the resolve of the Kashmiri people remains strong and that no force, including India, can silence their call for justice and freedom.