Mehbooba Mufti, Iltija Placed Under House Arrest Ahead of Martyrs’ Day

Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti and party leader Iltija Mufti were placed under house arrest on Sunday ahead of Martyrs’ Day observances, the party said. According to PDP leaders, the restrictions were imposed to prevent Mehbooba Mufti and Iltija Mufti from participating in programmes marking Martyrs’ Day. The party alleged that the move was aimed at restricting political activity and the leaders’ right to pay tributes. Martyrs’ Day is observed in Jammu and Kashmir to commemorate those who were killed on July 13, 1931, during protests against the Dogra rule in the erstwhile princely state. The PDP has criticised the reported house arrest, stating that such measures prevent leaders from visiting memorial sites and participating in public engagements. The administration has not issued an official statement regarding the restrictions. The development comes ahead of the annual commemorations, which have historically witnessed political leaders and groups paying homage to the 1931 martyrs.