Indian forces have ramped up their operations in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, conducting multiple house raids and search operations across various areas of Srinagar. This comes in response to the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead, primarily tourists. The attack is one of the deadliest in the region since 2000, sparking heightened security measures and military action, reports DAWN.
Under the direction of the Indian Home Ministry and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, the Indian police continue operations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Forces have seized a variety of items during the raids, including house and bank documents, mobile phones, and digital devices from residents. These operations are part of a broader crackdown intended to address what Indian authorities describe as unlawful activities in the region.
Indian authorities have implied cross-border involvement in the attack but have not provided concrete evidence to support the claim. Pakistan’s leadership, both civilian and military, has rejected the accusation and called for an independent and neutral investigation.
Advocate Abdul Rashid Minhas, spokesperson for the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), has raised alarm over the situation, condemning the looting of goods and attacks on properties during the raids. Minhas urged the United Nations to take immediate action, calling for a resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions and the desires of the Kashmiri people.
In the aftermath of the attack, Indian troops and paramilitary forces have conducted a large number of arrests, with more than 2,000 Kashmiris detained. Additionally, the Indian military destroyed the family homes of two individuals allegedly involved in the attack. The heightened security measures and the continued escalation of operations have added to the already tense atmosphere in the region.
The Kashmir conflict remains a focal point of international attention, with calls for UN intervention growing louder as the situation becomes more dire.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
