October 22 marks 31 years since the Bijbehara incident in Kashmir's Anantnag district, where 51 civilians lost their lives and over 200 were injured during Friday prayers in 1993.
According to historical records, the incident occurred when the 74th Battalion of the Border Security Force (BSF) established a perimeter around the Hazratbal shrine. Reports indicate approximately 10,000 worshippers had gathered at the Bijbehara Jamia Masjid for Friday prayers.
Human Rights Watch documentation shows that medical and paramedical staff attempting to assist the injured also faced obstruction. A media blackout was subsequently implemented in the region.
The BSF initially claimed self-defense, though official records note only one BSF constable was injured in the incident.
In 2007, an Indian court offered compensation to the victims' families, which was declined. A subsequent government commission of inquiry held the BSF responsible for the incident.
The official investigation report, while acknowledging BSF's role, led to no significant legal proceedings. Thirty-one years later, families of the victims continue to seek justice through legal channels.
The incident remains a significant historical event in the region's chronicles, documented by various international organizations and human rights bodies.
