Ahead of Afzal Guru’s 5th death anniversary, north Kashmir is witnessing unprecedented security measures.
The authorities have deployed security personnel in strength at various places. At Doabgah Sopore, the birth place of Afzal Guru, the locals are preparing for the fifth anniversary of Guru. Though Sopore is witnessing intense security measures, however at Doabgah, there is calm with people making arrangements to commemorate Guru’s death anniversary on Friday.
“It is our routine to visit the bereaved family on February 9… we offer prayers for the departed soul” said Ghulam Nabi, a local resident.
“How can people here forget that Afzal was hanged to satisfy the ‘collective conscience’. For us he was a freedom fighter who sacrificed his life and infused a new life to the freedom struggle” he added.
“Afzal has become role model after his death for many youth across Kashmir. This should awaken the conscience of those who wanted his hanging. For the people of Kashmir who strive for complete resolution of Kashmir issue, sacrifices of Afzal is a legacy which thousands will carry forward,” said a group of locals.
It is a normal practice for the state government to impose restrictions across Kashmir on February 9 so that any protest is avoided on the day.