Burhan Wani’s sacrifices are testimony of Kashmiris’ resolve: COAS

Kashmiris have the right to self-determination, tweeted Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Major General Asif Ghafoor quoting Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on the first anniversary of Burhan Wani, a Kashmiri youth martyred by Indian forces last year. 

Sacrifices of Wani and generations against Indian atrocities are a testimony of their [Kashmiris’] resolve, the tweet read.

Wani, a commander of Hizbul Mujahideen, was martyred in Indian occupied Kashmir on July 8, 2016.

Burhan Wani's martyrdom has triggered massive protests and prolonged period of curfews and shutdowns across the held valley. More than 100 innocent Kashmiris have been killed and thousands of others injured in Indian occupied Kashmir. 

Curfew imposed, internet banned 

In different parts of Kashmir valley, rallies were organised while prayers were also held to mark the first death anniversary of Wani.

Leaders who have been either confined to their houses or jailed have called for protests starting Saturday to mark Wani’s martyrdom.

Moreover, all roads leading to Wani’s hometown in Tral area of south Kashmir were blocked ahead of the anniversary. Besides, authorities seized thousands of motorbikes to prevent people from travelling between villages in the area.

Clashes broke out on Saturday when protesters tried to reach the family home. Wani's home was raided by the police and residents were harassed. 

Telecom service providers have been asked to shut down mobile internet in Kashmir for an indefinite period.

‘Wani’s sacrifice will not go to waste’

Hurriyet leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq paid tribute to Burhan Wani and Kashmiris martyred by Indian forces, saying their sacrifices would not go to waste.

Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Gilani said Burhan Wani is a role model for our youth. “He is our hero and his martyrdom serves as a milestone and an inspiration for generations to come.” 

Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Raja Farooq Haider said the Kashmir freedom struggle had entered into a new phase after the martyrdom of Wani. 

Pro-Wani graffiti and banners in Kashmir

Banners and graffiti in support of Burhan Wani were seen throughout Indian Occupied Kashmir. Graffiti was scribbled on shop shutters and wall, while posters of Wani were seen across Srinagar.

In south Kashmir, banners with pictures of Wani appeared at various places along with pictures of All Parties Hurriyat Conference Chairman, Syed Ali Gilani and United Jihad Council (UJC) Chief Syed Salahuddin.

Additional input from APP and Kashmir Media Service