Petition Seeks ‘Martyr’ Status for Pahalgam Terror Attack Victims
A petition has been filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking posthumous recognition as “Martyrs/Shaheed” for the 26 tourists who were killed in a terror attack in Pahalgam.
The public interest litigation was filed by Ayush Ahuja, a practising advocate of the High Court, who urged the court to direct the Central Government and the Prime Minister’s Office to officially confer the title of ‘Martyr/Shaheed’ on the victims. Ahuja also called for the installation of statues commemorating the deceased, with their names inscribed in golden letters.
As part of the plea, Ahuja requested that the location of the attack be renamed “Memorable Martyrs/Shaheed Hindu Valley Tourist Place” as a permanent tribute to the victims.
In his submission, Ahuja stated that the tourists had been peacefully enjoying the natural beauty of Kashmir when they were brutally targeted and killed by terrorists, allegedly after being identified based on their religion. He emphasized that official recognition would not only bring solace to the victims' families, but would also symbolize a national tribute, keeping their memory alive in the hearts of India’s 140 crore citizens.
Ahuja further raised a legal question for the court’s consideration: Can innocent civilian victims of terrorism be officially recognized as Martyrs/Shaheed in acknowledgment of their sacrifice?
The case is now pending before the High Court for further deliberation.
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