The Kashmiri nation and its diaspora will commemorate the 41st anniversary of the illegal and brutal state assassination of Maqbool Bhat by India. Bhat, often cited as the father of Kashmiris’ armed struggle for independence, was a great leader advocating for the right to self-determination. He was executed by the state of India in 1984.
Maqbool Bhat’s execution was meant to silence the Kashmiri struggle, but instead, it fueled a movement for self-determination that continues today.
The day of 11th February entails re-commitment to his vision of a free and independent Kashmir, in accordance with the universal principle of self-determination of the UN, international law, and moral justice. Since his execution, this day has been observed not only as a day of mourning by Kashmiris but also as a symbol of a solemn pledge by every Kashmiri to sacrifice to accomplish the mission of freedom through self-determination.
The last words attributed to Bhat before his execution —”If the Indian authorities believe that by executing me, they can suppress the Kashmiri struggle, they are mistaken. The real struggle will begin after my execution”—not only proven correct in annals of history but also a testimony of his belief in his cause.
Maqbool Bhat was a multi-faceted personality ideologue, statesman, warrior, political leader, and diplomat. Each one of these faces, in one way or another, enriched the Kashmiri movement in its intellectual and strategic dimension. Through his supreme sacrifice, he left behind a legacy of perseverance and commitment to a noble cause such as independence. His life, struggle, and sacrifice have inspired a whole generation of Kashmiris to pursue their struggle despite massive opposition. His vision of an independent and sovereign Kashmir survived his death-his unwavering commitment to the cause continued to inspire.
Bhat’s legacy imparts martyrdom rather than subjugation. His stout defiance of oppression showed that the state’s violence paradoxically kindles resistance rather than douses it. His deeds are part of Kashmir’s history and a guide and inspiration to those in the ongoing struggle for self-determination.
Bhat is still considered a symbol of freedom and resistance. He was the harbinger of the practical struggle for self-determination, not only for Kashmiris but also for other politically oppressed societies around the world. Commonly known for his role in the armed struggle, Bhat was also an ideology and academic to the core.
His legacy is a testament to the unbreakable will of Kashmiris, proving that oppression only strengthens the resolve for freedom.
This dimension of his personality was irradiated through his letter writing during his 12-year-long captivity in Delhi by the Indian state. His letters echo his innate intellectual profundity and real ideological commitment. These writings are a source worth reading for every young Kashmiri because they reflect the life and ideas of a man who sacrificed himself for the cause of freedom.
Neither his imprisonment nor execution by the Indian state could erase Bhat’s political legacy. It continues to inspire millions who fight for human rights and dignity. It is alive in the Kashmiri people’s movement for freedom today.
A major, long-standing demand of the people of Kashmir has been the return of the mortal remains of both Maqbool Bhat and Afzal Guru to their families. Guru was another Kashmiri youth who was sentenced by the state of India like Bhat and his dead body was not returned like Bhat. This state behavior by India marks an unprecedented low in statecraft and global diplomacy which is only going to add more credence to the struggle for freedom and self-determination.
The cases of Maqbool Bhat and many after him substantiate the series of systemic injustices against the Kashmiris. During the 1990s, following militant attacks, it became normal for the security forces to arrest and torture civilians. Surrendered militants were easy victims; many were arrested for extended periods and were forced to give false confession statements under coercion and torture.
There is a set pattern of custodial torture, forced confession, and verdicts politically motivated from behind. Many young Kashmiris have committed suicide due to repeated arrests and torture by Indian occupying forces in Kashmir. Such incidents present before the naked eye a chronic history of torture, duress, and false accusations that have not eroded with the passing of time.
Despite decades of oppression, Kashmir’s fight for self-determination remains unshaken, inspired by the sacrifices of leaders like Maqbool Bhat.
Despite all evil tactics, the Indian state has failed miserably to curb the freedom struggle in the valley. This continued struggle and all the sacrifices made in it, something that began with Maqbool Bhat’s assassination, continue to symbolize the steadfastness of Kashmiris, generation after generation, for their final destination of self-determination and independence.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.
