Tarigami pays tributers to workers

Srinagar, Jul 21: Recalling the historic silk factory incident of July 21, 1924, senior CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami paid tribute to the workers who sacrificed their lives while demanding justice and dignity, a press release said.

“They did not present their lives. Their lives were snatched,” he said, as he remembered the slain workers who were protesting for fair wages and better working conditions.

“The incident saw a large number of workers participating, voicing their concerns over meagre wages and exploitative working conditions. “They were raising voices for their rights, but faced bullets,” Tarigami said. “Those in power did not bring the protest to the forefront. Instead, bullets were fired to crush it,” he added.

Tarigami recalled that the protestors were not only demanding a raise in wages – which were as low as 4 aanas a day – but also the release of their arrested leaders and punishment for corrupt officials. “Some people said ten people presented their lives. They did not present their lives. Their lives were snatched away,” he repeated.

He highlighted the significance of the silk workers, pointing out that the same silk produced in Srinagar was once worn by kings and elites. “Even today, if you go to the village, that factory is still there. Some people still take care of it,” he said, drawing attention to the heritage and continued relevance of the silk industry in Kashmir.