AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Srinagar, Amidst ongoing tensions in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army is reportedly deploying new strategies to dissuade local populations from supporting the region’s freedom movement. These tactics mark a shift from previous approaches, which heavily relied on military force.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the Indian military and paramilitary forces are now organizing sports, musical events, Hindutva cultural showcases, and medical camps across various parts of the territory. These events, often conducted with the support of NGOs and groups backed by the Indian authorities, are said to be part of a broader psychological operation aimed at altering the perceptions of the local populace.
Political analysts, who have spoken about the matter, claim that attendance at these events is sometimes enforced, with attendees being warned against engaging in pro-freedom activities. Moreover, photographs from these gatherings are allegedly used by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government to project a facade of normalcy in the region to the international community.
The human rights situation in the region has reportedly worsened significantly since the Narendra Modi-led government revoked the special autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019. This revocation has been accompanied by increased reports of violence, arbitrary arrests, and torture by security forces. The use of stringent laws to curb dissent has also been a notable trend, further exacerbating the conflict in the region.
Experts are calling on the international community to intervene and hold India accountable for its actions in Kashmir, emphasizing the need for urgent measures to safeguard the human rights of the Kashmiri people.