Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and around the world are observing the 42nd martyrdom anniversary of renowned pro-freedom leader Muhammad Maqbool Butt, renewing their pledge to continue the struggle for freedom from Indian illegal occupation until its ultimate goal is achieved. According to Kashmir Media Service, India hanged Muhammad Maqbool Butt on February 11, 1984, in the infamous Tihar Jail in New Delhi for his active role in the freedom movement.

Instead of handing over his body to his family, the Indian authorities buried him within the jail premises. Born on February 18, 1938, in the Trehgam area of Kupwara district in the occupied Kashmir Valley, Muhammad Maqbool Butt emerged as a powerful voice for the oppressed Kashmiris living under Indian occupation. Fearing his influence, India convicted him in a fabricated case and carried out his execution.  The All Parties Hurriyat Conference and the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front have called for a complete shutdown today in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. 

In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, and cities worldwide, commemorative programmes will be held today to pay rich tributes to Shaheed Maqbool Butt.  Hurriyat leaders, while honoring his sacrifice, described martyrs like Shaheed Maqbool Butt as the real assets of the Kashmir freedom movement. They reaffirmed that the Kashmiri people are determined to take the mission of these great martyrs to its logical end. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)