For decades, Jammu and Kashmir has remained at the center of a complex geopolitical dispute shaped by competing national claims, cross-border tensions, and cycles of militancy.

Since 1947, successive phases of conflict including tribal incursions, conventional wars, and later proxy engagements have defined the security landscape. Indian officials have consistently maintained that Pakistan has supported militant activity in the region, a charge Islamabad denies, asserting instead that it offers diplomatic and moral backing to Kashmiri self-determination.

The conflict evolved significantly in the late 20th century, particularly during the 1990s, when an armed insurgency intensified across the Valley. Indian security agencies have described this period as the institutionalization of a proxy war, marked by the rise of non-state armed groups and cross-border infiltration.

Pakistan has rejected these allegations, though international bodies such as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) placed the country on its “grey list” from 2018 to 2022, citing deficiencies in counter-terror financing frameworks.Recent incidents continue to shape security perceptions.

In April 2025, an attack in Pahalgam targeted civilians, including tourists, underscoring concerns among Indian authorities about the persistence of militant networks. Officials have argued that such attacks aim to undermine economic recovery, particularly in tourism, which has shown significant growth in recent years.

India’s policy approach has shifted notably since August 2019, when the government revoked the region’s special constitutional status and reorganized Jammu and Kashmir into a Union Territory. The move was presented by New Delhi as a step toward deeper integration, administrative efficiency, and expanded access to national laws and welfare schemes.

Critics, including some political groups within the region and international observers, have raised concerns about federalism, civil liberties, and political representation following the change.

Since the reorganization, the administration under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has emphasized governance reforms and development initiatives. Official data indicates that welfare coverage has expanded, including the issuance of approximately 2.1 million health insurance cards under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Infrastructure in healthcare has been scaled up with new medical colleges and planned All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) facilities in Awantipora and Jammu.Education policy has also undergone changes aligned with the National Education Policy 2020, with authorities reporting increased funding for scholarships targeting tribal and economically disadvantaged students.

In rural development, more than 63,000 houses have reportedly been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, while tap water access under the Jal Jeevan Mission has reached over 80 percent of rural households, according to government figures.

Economic indicators cited by officials point to increased investor interest, with investments worth ₹5,600 crore realized since 2019 and proposals totaling approximately ₹66,000 crore under consideration.

The tourism sector has been a focal point of recovery efforts. Government data shows that 23.5 million tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir in 2024, marking a record high, while international tourist arrivals have grown significantly since 2022.

Large-scale infrastructure projects have also been highlighted as symbols of integration and development. The completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail link, including what authorities describe as the world’s highest railway bridge, is expected to enhance connectivity and economic activity.

Hydropower development remains a long-term priority, with a projected potential of 20,000 megawatts.At the grassroots level, officials report a rise in local entrepreneurship, particularly in tourism-linked sectors such as homestays, cafés, and small hospitality ventures.

More than 2,500 homestay units have been registered, reflecting a shift toward decentralized economic participation. Skill development initiatives, including coaching programs for national-level examinations, have been introduced to improve employment prospects for youth.

Security conditions, while still closely monitored, have shown signs of stabilization according to official assessments. The successful hosting of the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar in 2023 was cited by the government as evidence of improved security preparedness.

Religious tourism, including the annual Amarnath Yatra, has also seen enhanced logistical and safe arrangements.Despite these developments, the human cost of past decades remains visible.

Cases of civilian suffering continue to be documented by local communities and advocacy groups.

In Pulwama district, the case of Gul Hassan Shah, a nonagenarian who lost his son to abduction and killing in 2003, reflects the long-term impact of violence on families.

Similarly, accounts such as that of Fareeda Begum, who sought state support for over two decades after her husband’s killing, highlight administrative delays and gaps in victim rehabilitation frameworks. Her eventual appointment to a government position in 2025 was presented by officials as part of a broader effort to address legacy grievances.

The pre-2019 governance structure has also come under scrutiny in official narratives, with authorities alleging that institutional inefficiencies and political patronage systems hindered equitable access to state resources.

Specific cases, including the 2009 Shopian incident, remain contested, with differing interpretations regarding investigative processes and accountability.

Analysts note that the region’s trajectory will depend on a combination of sustained security measures, political engagement, and economic inclusion.

While the government emphasizes a transition from conflict management to development-driven governance, questions around political representation, restoration of statehood, and long-term reconciliation remain part of the broader discourse.

India’s position continues to stress that security and development are interlinked, and that economic normalization is essential to counter militancy. Pakistan maintains its stance on Kashmir as a disputed territory requiring international attention.

The divergence in narratives ensures that Jammu and Kashmir remains a focal point in regional geopolitics, even as on-ground indicators point to gradual changes in governance and economic activity.

The truth is stark, data-backed, and irrefutable: India is building lives in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan is destroying them in PoJK.

In the ongoing war of narratives between India and Pakistan over Jammu & Kashmir, facts have finally caught up with fiction. While Pakistan peddles a tired tale of prosperity in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), the truth tells a dramatically different story, one of neglect, repression, and economic decay on its side, and of transformation, investment, and democratic inclusion in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir.

Budgetary Commitment: India’s Investments Leave Pakistan Behind

Let’s begin with the basics—money.

The development budget for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in 2025–26 stands at a remarkable ₹1,12,310 crore (USD 12.9 billion), reflecting India’s strong financial commitment to the region’s growth. In sharp contrast, the Annual Development Programme for Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) amounts to just PKR 49 billion (USD 1.77 billion).

On a per capita basis, the disparity is even more striking: India allocates approximately USD 1,032 per person in J&K, while Pakistan spends only USD 393 per person in PoJK.

India’s per capita investment in J&K is nearly three times what Pakistan spends in PoJK. That alone exposes the hollowness of Pakistan’s claims of parity or superiority in developmental efforts. These aren’t just numbers; they represent hospitals built, schools upgraded, roads constructed, and lives improved.

Education: A Tale of Two Systems

India has placed a strong emphasis on educational excellence in Jammu & Kashmir, transforming the region into an emerging hub of academic and professional institutions. Today, J&K is home to nine state universities, two central universities, and four Institutes of National Importance—including IIT Jammu, IIM Jammu, NIT Srinagar, and NIFT Srinagar.

The region also boasts eleven medical colleges, fourteen engineering colleges, and two AIIMS campuses—one operational in Samba and another upcoming in Awantipora. In stark contrast, Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) lags far behind with only seven universities and four medical colleges. Compounding the problem are chronic shortages of qualified faculty, poor remuneration, and mismanaged institutions—conditions that render PoJK’s education system ill-equipped to prepare its youth for the future.

The contrast is equally severe in terms of job creation. In PoJK, youth are either absorbed into the government sector or pushed into the Pakistan Army’s Northern Light Infantry. Meanwhile, in J&K, expanding industry, tourism, and startups are opening up new avenues for educated youth, with the support of central government schemes like Startup India, Digital India, and the Industrial Development Scheme for the UT.

Healthcare: Pakistan’s Neglect, India’s Transformation

Healthcare is another area where Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir is significantly ahead of its Pakistani-occupied counterpart. With a total of 5,534 health institutions—comprising 4,433 government and 1,101 private facilities—J&K maintains a doctor-patient ratio of 1:1658, reflecting a relatively robust healthcare infrastructure.

In stark contrast, PoJK has only 73 hospitals and health centres, with an alarming doctor-patient ratio of 1:4916, exposing the deep neglect and systemic healthcare crisis in the region under Pakistani control.

J&K’s Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is 23, three times better than PoJK. In 2023, J&K was declared #1 in India for IMR reduction, slashing it by 8 points in one year. AIIMS, district hospitals, telemedicine, and Ayushman Bharat cards are bridging the last-mile health delivery gap.

By contrast, PoJK residents have to protest for basic access to emergency care, suffer under dilapidated facilities, and rely on non-local doctors due to persistent staff shortages.

Freedom, Democracy & Governance: J&K Joins India; PoJK Remains Pakistan’s Colony

Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir has been fully and firmly integrated into the constitutional and political framework of India. The region now enjoys full representation in both houses of the Indian Parliament, participates in the nationwide electoral process, and benefits from central welfare schemes on par with other Indian states.

Additionally, the implementation of Panchayati Raj has empowered local governance, bringing decision-making closer to the grassroots and strengthening democratic institutions in the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, PoJK and GB are not even listed in Article 1 of Pakistan’s own Constitution. Their legal status is determined by the highly dubious Karachi Agreement of 1949, signed behind closed doors without any GB representation. PoJK is run via an ‘interim constitution,’ and GB via an executive order, not a law passed by any legislature.

Worse, PoJK’s constitution bans anyone from even questioning its accession to Pakistan. Section 4(7)(3) of the 1974 Act makes any political expression against Pakistan’s claim a punishable offence. This is not democracy, it’s colonialism in disguise.

Discrimination, Repression, and Sectarian Violence

While J&K thrives in a secular, pluralistic democracy, where Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians co-exist, PoJK and GB are trapped in systemic discrimination.

In Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), religious persecution and sectarian discrimination remain deeply entrenched. Since Ahmadis, are constitutionally declared as non-Muslims in Pakistan, they face daily persecution and systemic exclusion from public life.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, Shia Muslims—despite forming the majority—suffer from state-backed discrimination, targeted killings, and institutional bias. Sectarian violence is alarmingly common, and authorities have repeatedly failed to ensure basic law and order in key areas such as Gilgit, Skardu, and Chilas.

Enforced Disappearances and Suppression of Dissent

While Indian-administered Jammu & Kashmir enjoys a vibrant media landscape, active political debate, and the freedom to protest without fear, Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) have become zones of repression for activists and dissenters. Journalists, students, and political figures routinely disappear without a trace, often without any official explanation.

The United Kashmir People’s National Party (UKPNP) and the Awami Action Committee have consistently raised concerns about enforced disappearances and custodial killings. In a chilling incident from May 2025, two young men from PoJK, Zarnosh Naseem and Jibran Naseem, were executed by Pakistani forces and falsely branded as “terrorists,” further intensifying public outrage and highlighting the climate of fear and impunity in the region.

Such acts have triggered widespread unrest. In both 2024 and 2025, mass protests swept across PoJK and GB demanding lower electricity tariffs, subsidised flour, and basic governance. Islamabad responded not with reform, but with detentions, intimidation, and media blackouts.

Infrastructure and Connectivity: A World Apart

India is rapidly connecting Jammu & Kashmir to the rest of the country through a modern transport revolution. The recently inaugurated Chenab Bridge, now the world’s highest railway bridge, stands as a symbol of engineering excellence and integration.

Simultaneously, the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra-Srinagar expressway is progressing at a swift pace, promising seamless travel and economic connectivity. Jammu & Kashmir now boasts over 1.4 lakh kilometers of road network—more than any region with similar terrain—significantly enhancing mobility, trade, and access to essential services.

Meanwhile, in PoJK and GB, poor road infrastructure, irregular power supply, and limited internet access have crippled economic activity. Tourism, which flourishes in Indian J&K, is negligible in PoJK due to insecurity and lack of facilities.

Natural Resources: Looted by Pakistan, Denied to Locals

Despite their mineral richness, PoJK and GB have no control over local resources. Coal, uranium, water, and timber are all exploited by Pakistan’s elite and military-industrial complex. Locals get no royalties, no jobs, and no say.

In Indian J&K, recent policy changes have encouraged local entrepreneurship in mining, horticulture, handicrafts, and IT, with transparent auction processes and guaranteed revenue sharing with panchayats and district bodies.

A Contrast That Can No Longer Be Denied

It’s no longer a contest between two narratives—it’s a contrast between two stark realities. On one side is Jammu & Kashmir: democratic, rapidly developing, and increasingly integrated with the world’s fastest-growing major economy. On the other side lie Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, where people are denied basic rights, exploited by the Pakistani state, and left to languish under military domination and a string of broken promises.

Pakistan must stop using PoJK as cannon fodder for its failed Kashmir policy. The world must now call it out for what it is, an occupying force in a region it neither nurtures nor understands.

The truth is stark, data-backed, and irrefutable: India is building lives in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan is destroying them in PoJK.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.

Turkey’s propaganda media front, TRT World, has spearheaded anti-India narratives, peddling full-blown pro-Pakistani propaganda

Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif is meeting Turkey President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan TWICE in ONE month, post the Pahalgam terror attack and after #OperationSindoor.

This not only reveals the true nature of their alliance but also EXPOSES their transnational alliance against India!

What we’re seeing today is a reflection of years of planning and collaboration. From 2018’s coordinated social media campaigns to 2022’s RToK in Sarajevo, every major anti-India narrative has been amplified simultaneously from Islamabad and Istanbul!

The Erdoğan network isn’t just diplomatic — it’s operational. Through a web of NGOs spanning continents, the Erdoğan family has built an influence ecosystem that abets everything — from Hamas to Pakistan-sponsored anti-India campaigns, including terror attacks.

Two weeks ahead of the Pahalgam terror attack, a sequence of events transpired between Pakistan and Turkey:

a. A think tank linked to Turkey’s Erdoğan family hosted a propaganda event on Kashmir.
b. TRT World interviewed a white-collared terrorist, Muzzammil Thakur, for propaganda on Kashmir.

On 9th April, Pakistani think tank CISSAJK released a report whitewashing the Pulwama terror attack and blaming India’s ruling party for “pushing South Asia to the nuclear brink.”

On 6th April, Muzzammil Thakur was also the “chief guest” at TUGVA — an organization closely linked to the Erdoğan family. Bilal Erdoğan (Erdoğan’s son) sits on the advisory board of TUGVA. TUGVA pursues the political ambitions of Erdoğan’s AK Party via its programs.

Note: TUGVA is also known for corruption allegations, promoting extremist Islamist ideology through jihadist camps, and working with Insani Haq-o-Hurriyat (IHH), which supports Al-Qaeda and ISIS.

On one hand, TUGVA hosted Muzzammil Thakur; on the other hand, he was interviewed by Turkey’s state-affiliated media and propaganda arm, TRT World. Muzzammil also shared the stage with Hamas supporter Azzam Tamimi at Ummatics Istanbul — a network founded by a Pakistani-American.

This is not the first time Turkey has abetted this anti-India figure. In 2016, TRT was the first portal to interview Muzzammil and project him as the face of resistance in Kashmir globally. It was the first time Muzzammil Thakur began receiving an international platform.

This is not a one-off or isolated instance where Turkey has abetted the Pakistani agenda globally. In fact, it has even worked hand-in-hand with Pakistan against certain countries, including India. To put things in perspective, both Turkey and Pakistan are strategic partners.

Turkey not only provides military support to Pakistan, but their alliance is marked by various aspects, including:
a. Defence deals
b. Info-war coordination
c. Military exercises
d. Technology deals

Turkey’s propaganda media front, TRT World, has spearheaded anti-India narratives, peddling full-blown pro-Pakistani propaganda — including Pakistani fake news and giving space to Pakistani faces — weaving the narrative of an alliance between India and Israel as colonial settlers.

According to a 2021 report, TRT World employed at least 50 Pakistanis out of 300-odd staff, collectively comprising correspondents, producers, and editors based in Istanbul. TRT World and Anadolu Agency are tasked with carrying propaganda favourable to the Turkey-Pakistan alliance.

Turkey under Erdoğan positions itself as a Muslim world leader, using Islamic identity to counter Western influence, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Pakistan has often aligned with Turkey’s narratives, including on Islamophobia, to resonate with global Muslim populations.

Targeting Muslim Brotherhood–targeted Countries:

Turkey and Pakistan jointly targeted countries that have also been targeted by the global radical Muslim Brotherhood — namely France, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India.

In May 2020, #BoycottUAE trended in Pakistan after Turkish social media users promoted the hashtag. Turks were angered by the UAE’s support for Haftar’s forces in Libya (which opposed the Turkey-backed GNA) and the UAE’s ties with India.

In October 2020, Turkey and Pakistan united to push #BoycottFrenchProducts over France’s defence of free speech. Erdoğan urged Turks to shun French goods, while Pakistan’s parliament passed a resolution in 2020 backing Turkey’s call to boycott French products.

Similarly, this group also executed a slander campaign against Saudi Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). A number of pictures of the Saudi Prince with the Indian PM were recycled to suggest he was not standing up for the cause of Muslims.

As noted, Turkey supports Pakistan in several ways: endorsing its stance on Kashmir, pushing anti-India narratives like “Islamophobia,” and using diplomatic channels and state tools — including TRT World and social media — to fuel global boycott campaigns against India.

This alliance gained more visibility after the Indian government abrogated Article 370 in J&K. Turkey and Pakistan intensified coordinated disinformation campaigns on Kashmir, weaponizing tropes like ‘Islamophobia’ to malign India’s image and hinder India’s economic interests.

On August 5, 2019, after India revoked Articles 370 and 35A, while Pakistani media pushed aggressive propaganda, Turkish outlets like TRT World and Anadolu Agency were among the first international platforms to echo Pakistan’s Kashmir narrative against India.

TRT World published over 30 long stories related to Jammu and Kashmir, and interestingly, 14 of them were also recommended by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry. A word cloud and timeline of TRT World’s coverage on Kashmir is shown below.

Turkey’s state-funded Anadolu Agency amplified fake news claiming India issued 3.4 million bogus domiciles in Kashmir to alter its demography post-Article 370. The false report was widely shared by Pakistani media — later proven fake.

The first BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) call against India appeared on Facebook on August 8, 2019 — just 3 days after the abrogation of Article 370. By August 13, 2019, the Palestinian BDS Committee had released a statement amplified via Pakistani- and Turkish-aligned platforms.

Pakistan-backed accounts launched a coordinated BDS campaign targeting India using #BoycottIndia and #BoycottIndianProducts, with over 162K tweets on X — mostly from fake or new Pakistan-based handles.

In September 2019, then-Pakistan PM Imran Khan used the UN General Assembly to accuse India of “Islamophobia” post-Article 370 abrogation. That same year, Pak sympathizer CJ Werleman pushed the Islamophobia trope against India, amplified by Turkish and Pakistani networks.

Weaponizing the OIC

Pakistan and Turkey also weaponized the OIC to amplify anti-India narratives in 2020 — citing CAA/NRC and Kashmir to push claims of ‘Islamophobia’. Turkey’s Anadolu Agency, TRT World, and Erdoğan backed the line.

OIC Statement & Fake Arab Handles Campaign

In April 2020, after OIC criticized India over Islamophobia, Pakistan launched a fake social media campaign. Pak accounts posing as Arab royals unleashed a disinformation campaign (later exposed) to target India with Islamophobia.

Soft Calls for BDS Against India

In collusion, Turkey and Pakistan organized several events equating Kashmir with Palestine and called for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against India. Seminars and events were organized jointly by this alliance.

In May 2020, an event was jointly hosted by Kashmir Civitas (based in Pakistan, Istanbul, Shanghai, and Qatar), along with Turkey-based Center for Islam and Global Affairs (CIGA), to draw a parallel between Kashmir and Palestine and seek BDS against India.

Similarly, on June 29–30, 2020, Istanbul University organized an event on Kashmir attended by Pakistani ministers and convicted ISI agent Ghulam Nabi Fai among others. Masood Khan urged Turkey’s intervention in the Kashmir issue while seeking BDS against India.

To lend legitimacy to the BDS campaign against India, pro-Pakistan networks enlisted CJ Werleman to write an article on TRT World (July 2020) framing the Kashmir issue within the global BDS movement and internationalizing anti-India narratives.

A few months later, to test the waters, in September 2021, the #BoycottIndianProducts campaign trended on X — this time spearheaded by the global Muslim Brotherhood along with the nexus of Qatar-Turkey-Pakistan (QTPi).

Two months later, in December 2021, the Turkey-Pakistan nexus — including Pakistan’s Jamaat and Erdoğan-linked entities — backed by the Muslim Brotherhood nexus linked to Hamas, organized a hush-hush ‘Russell Tribunal on Kashmir (RToK)’ against India.

Major takeaway of the 3-day Tribunal: BDS Movement against India!

RToK & Erdoğan Link

Among the organizers of the RToK tribunal was the International University of Sarajevo (IUS). The president of IUS is Professor Dr. Sevgi Kurtulmuş, professor of Economics at Ankara University. Dr. Sevgi is the wife of Numan Kurtulmuş, who was Deputy PM of Turkey (2014–17), from the AKP.

IUS was founded by the Foundation for Education Development Sarajevo (SEDEF) in 2003. SEDEF is a pro-government Turkish businessmen and Islamist foundation backed by Erdoğan.

SEDEF’s constituent organization is ILIM YAYMA VAKFI, founded by Erdoğan on March 31, 1973. Bilal Erdoğan is its president.

Prior to the RToK event, IUS had never engaged with Kashmir. Yet, this Erdoğan-linked university co-organized the RToK — after months of seminars and online boycott campaigns against India. Erdoğan’s ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and Turkish state media’s role in the MB-led boycott are well known.

Another key organizer of the RToK was Kashmir Civitas (KC), established in 2019 with bases in Istanbul, London, Beijing, Rome, and Toronto. Farhan Mujahid Chak is the face of KC. He is of Pakistani origin, Qatar-resident, and currently based in Canada.

A few days after RToK, UK-based firm Stoke White — whose founder Hakan Camuz is a Turkish citizen and close to the Erdoğan family — ran a smear arrest campaign against the Indian Army and India’s Home Minister, accusing India of human rights violations in J&K.

Hakan Camuz headed the UK-based Turken Foundation (2015–19), which has deep links with the Erdoğan family.

The Turken Foundation was established by two Turkish organizations: Ensar Foundation (est. 1979) and TURGEV (est. 1996 by Recep Tayyip Erdoğan). Bilal Erdoğan was once a board member of the Turken Foundation UK.

Ensar Foundation

In 2016, Ensar Foundation was involved in a child abuse scandal in Karaman, a central Anatolian town in Turkey, in a guest house run by Ensar Foundation. The foundation is known to be run by close associates of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan!

The Relationship Goes Deeper

In 2014, Camuz represented Bilal Erdoğan in a case against CNBC and David L. Philips after they exposed alleged links between Bilal and Turkey’s Humanitarian Relief Foundation (IHH) in funding terror group ISIS. IHH is a known tool of Turkey’s intelligence agency Millî İstihbarat Teşkilatı (MİT).

Camuz’s Stoke White has run legal and smear campaigns targeting countries — UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, and France — all targeted by the Muslim Brotherhood and Turkey. Its cases also echo Ankara’s narrative, even demanding action against Erdoğan’s rival, Mohammed Dahlan.

On Jan 19, 2022, Stoke White launched a hit job against the Indian Home Minister and Army Chief (from Jan 2021), accusing India of genocide in Kashmir.

This was based on an “investigation” with Pakistan-based Legal Forum for Oppressed Voices of Kashmir (LFOVK). The campaign was strategically made to trend in Turkey.

LFOVK is headed by Pakistani Judge Justice Ali Nawaz Chawhan (late) and Advocate Nasir Qadri. It is pertinent to note that while SW launched a hit job against the Indian HM and then-Indian Army Chief, it was LFOVK that started the #arrestindianarmychief trend and peddled the narrative of ‘war crimes in Kashmir’ with SW.

LFK collaborates with think tanks like IPRI and IPS — both deeply tied to the Pakistan Army and ISI. Asad Durrani, ex-IPS member, was the general of Military Intelligence (MI) and ISI. These institutions were tasked by Pakistan’s Senate in 2016 to identify and exploit India’s “fault lines.”

Just two weeks ahead of the RToK in Sarajevo, LFOVK head Nasir Qadri and primary organizer Farhan Mujahid Chak (Kashmir Civitas) attended the 17th IPS Working Group on Kashmir in 2021 — joined by others including Irshad Mahmood, Tajammul Altaf, and APHC officials.

The New Narrative

As noted, there have been strong efforts to seek BDS against India, just like the BDS movement against Israel. Through boycott campaigns, hit job campaigns, and RToK, this alliance has been forging a narrative linking India and Israel.

Hence, this transnational alliance — driven by Turkey’s vision of becoming the poster boy of the Islamic world — uses Turkish propaganda fronts along with Pakistani allies to craft the India-Israel narrative. Turkey actively abets and drives these efforts alongside Pakistan through state machinery and media.

Most recently, TRT World gave a platform to Nasir Qadri, who accused India of adopting Israel’s settler-colonial tactics. During the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025, a number of Pakistani handles also peddled the same narrative as Nasir Qadri on TRT World.

Turkey is fast emerging as a new hub for anti-India radical Islamists.

This investigative article draws exclusively from verified research conducted by DisInfoLab, a leading organization renowned for uncovering global disinformation campaigns, propaganda networks, and hybrid warfare strategies. Every event, connection, and claim outlined in this exposé is rooted in meticulously documented findings from DisInfoLab’s reports.

The logistics of Modi’s schedule further weaken Kharge’s claim. Organizing a high-profile international trip like the Saudi visit requires weeks of preparation, leaving little room for a last-minute Kashmir visit.

In a startling accusation, Mallikarjun Kharge, president of India’s opposition Congress Party, recently claimed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi canceled a planned visit to Kashmir after receiving an intelligence warning three days before the devastating Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025.

The attack, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists, in the scenic Kashmir valley, sent shockwaves across India and beyond, intensifying regional tensions. Kharge’s allegation, widely shared on platforms like IndiaToday and Beatroot, has ignited controversy, with critics calling it a politically motivated fabrication.

For an international audience seeking clarity, a closer look at the timeline, Modi’s schedule, and the complexities of India’s security landscape reveals a claim that lacks evidence and struggles to hold up.

The Pahalgam Attack: A Brutal Blow

The Pahalgam attack ranks among the deadliest in Jammu and Kashmir in nearly two decades. On April 22, 2025, at 2:30 PM local time, gunmen targeted Hindu tourists in Baisaran meadow, a picturesque spot in the Kashmir valley. The Resistance Front (TRF), a militant group linked to Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility before retracting its statement due to public backlash.

India accused Pakistan of orchestrating the attack, further straining already tense relations between the nuclear-armed neighbors. The tragedy not only highlighted the fragility of security in Kashmir—a disputed region claimed by both India and Pakistan—but also raised questions about intelligence failures.

Kharge’s claim centers on a specific assertion: Modi received an intelligence report on April 19, 2025, warning of the attack and promptly canceled a planned Kashmir visit to avoid danger. The accusation paints Modi as prioritizing personal safety over leadership in a crisis. But when examined against verifiable facts, the narrative begins to crumble.

Modi’s Schedule: No Trace of a Kashmir Trip

First, let’s consider Modi’s itinerary. On April 19, 2025—the day Kharge alleges Modi was warned—India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced Modi’s upcoming visit to Saudi Arabia, scheduled for April 22–23. Modi arrived in Jeddah on April 22, where he was set to co-chair the second India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council meeting, a key diplomatic engagement to strengthen bilateral ties.

When news of the Pahalgam attack broke, Modi cut his visit short, skipping a formal dinner, and returned to New Delhi on April 23 to convene an emergency meeting with top officials, including Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This timeline, corroborated by global media outlets like The Hindu, shows Modi’s focus was on international diplomacy, not a domestic trip to Kashmir.

No evidence suggests a Kashmir visit was ever planned. Modi’s trips to volatile regions like Kashmir are often unannounced for security reasons, but no government statements, media reports, or credible social media sources indicate a scheduled visit in April 2025.

Modi’s last major Kashmir trip was in January 2025, to the resort town of Sonamarg where he inaugurated the 6.5-kilometer tunnel. Kharge’s claim of a cancellation implies a visit was on the table, but without documentation, it appears speculative. Open-source intelligence platforms, found no mention of a planned Kashmir trip in the days before the attack, undermining Kharge’s narrative.

The Intelligence Puzzle

Kharge’s allegation also hinges on the existence of a specific intelligence report warning of the Pahalgam attack. India’s intelligence agencies, such as the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the Intelligence Bureau (IB), routinely monitor threats in Kashmir, where militancy remains a persistent challenge.

These reports are highly classified, and specific warnings are rarely made public. This suggests that while general intelligence on militant activity likely existed, a precise warning about the April 22 attack may not have been issued—or was not actionable.

Kharge provides no evidence to support his claim of a specific report. As an opposition leader, his access to classified intelligence would likely come from unofficial channels or leaking buckets, casting doubt on the reliability of his statement. Without corroboration, the claim risks fueling misinformation in a region already fraught with competing narratives.

Modi’s Response: Crisis Management, Not Evasion

Modi’s actions after the attack contrast sharply with Kharge’s portrayal. Upon returning to Delhi, Modi chaired an emergency meeting, condemned the attack as “cowardly,” and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, as reported by The Hindu.

His government launched a sweeping response, detaining over 1,500 suspects, demolishing homes of alleged militants, and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan—a 1960 agreement governing shared river resources. Modi even rerouted his return flight to avoid Pakistani airspace, signaling a hardline stance. These measures reflect a leader grappling with a national crisis, not one dodging responsibility by canceling a visit.

The Political Context

To understand Kharge’s claim, it’s crucial to consider India’s domestic politics. The Congress Party has long criticized Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government over its Kashmir policy, particularly the 2019 decision to revoke Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its semi-autonomous status. The BJP touted this move as a path to stability, but the Pahalgam attack challenged that narrative, giving the opposition an opening to question Modi’s leadership.

Kharge’s allegation aligns with this strategy, aiming to portray Modi as detached or negligent. However, without evidence, the claim has drawn backlash, with social media posts on X labeling it “venomous” and accusing Kharge of inadvertently bolstering Pakistan’s narrative—a risky move for Congress’s credibility.

Logistical Realities

The logistics of Modi’s schedule further weaken Kharge’s claim. Organizing a high-profile international trip like the Saudi visit requires weeks of preparation, leaving little room for a last-minute Kashmir visit.

Why It Matters

The Pahalgam attack underscores the enduring volatility of Jammu and Kashmir, a region at the heart of India-Pakistan tensions for decades. Beyond the human toll, the tragedy highlights the challenges of securing a conflict-prone area while navigating geopolitical rivalries. Kharge’s claim, while attention-grabbing, lacks the evidence needed to hold up under scrutiny.

Modi’s documented schedule, the absence of a confirmed Kashmir visit, and the speculative nature of the intelligence report all point to a narrative driven more by political point-scoring than by facts.

For the international community, this episode serves as a reminder of the complexities of India’s internal and external challenges. The focus should remain on addressing the root causes of violence in Kashmir—enhancing security, fostering dialogue, and ensuring justice for victims.

Unsubstantiated claims like Kharge’s, while sparking debate, risk diverting attention from these critical priorities. In a region where truth is often obscured by competing narratives, facts must guide the path forward.

Now, Kashmir is at a crossroads again. The hard-won calm is in danger, and people are left wondering if the dream of a normal life was always meant to be just that—a dream.

The valley is calm, with only the distant sound of gunfire and the fast footsteps of tourists who want to leave before nightfall. In the grassy areas of Pahalgam, where people used to laugh with the sound of the Lidder River, there is now a red flag waving. This flag is a warning and shows that something is wounded or damaged.

New Mirage in the ancient Valley

For many years, the government talked about growth and peace, calling it “New Kashmir.” They said it was a place ready for business and tourists, with its problems being fixed through development. They pointed to the new train lines, hotels, and the increase in visitors as signs that the region was finally leaving its troubled past behind. But then, in April, when 26 tourists were killed, this carefully built image was destroyed. The hope, promises, and positive stories quickly faded on the bloodied grass of Pahalgam. This attack did more than take innocent lives; it showed the deep questions hiding underneath the government’s positive talk and statistics.

Pahalgam turned into Battleground

For the people in Kashmir, having tourists return meant more than just making money. It brought a spark of hope, offering a chance to show the world that their valley was more than just bad news headlines and conflicts. However, when attackers targeted people by asking their names, their religion, or how they belong to the area, it made a frightening point: in Kashmir, your identity could be relevant. 

Attacking outsiders, particularly Hindus, is not new. This has been allegedly a common tactic since the beginning of the conflict. It is meant to send a message to New Delhi and the world that Kashmir is not as safe as it appears. Some believe the militants are not only trying to control the land but also trying to decide who is accepted there and who isn’t.

Normalcy to Darkness

After Article 370 was removed, Kashmir seemed like it was slowly coming back to normal. Markets were busy again, and Dal Lake was full of boats with tourists from all over India. The well-known meadows echoed with laughter, a sound that was missing for many years. Local elections were held again after ten years, and the economy—which had suffered a lot from conflict—began to recover. In fact, people in Kashmir were earning even more than those in Delhi and Punjab. For the first time in years, Kashmiris started to hope that peace might finally start to grow in a place that had seen much sadness.

However, the Pahalgam attack changed everything, like a sudden storm in spring. Twenty-six people, including tourists and locals, were killed in a meadow that symbolized Kashmir’s return to normal life. This was more than just an act of violence; it was a clear message. It tried to drag the valley back into the darkness, reminding everyone that old problems were not gone. Now, Kashmir is at a crossroads again. The hard-won calm is in danger, and people are left wondering if the dream of a normal life was always meant to be just that—a dream.

The Crisis of a decade

Prime Minister Modi was in Saudi Arabia when he heard about the tragic events. He was in discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on important subjects like energy and trade. As soon as he realized the seriousness of the situation in Pahalgam, he decided to return to India without delay. His urgent flight back to Delhi highlighted the critical nature of the crisis. Upon arrival, Modi’s motorcade hurried through the rainy streets, and he quickly convened emergency meetings with Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh. The entire nation was attentive, eager to see Modi’s response. In the valley, there was a strong awareness that Delhi’s attention was once again focused on them, bringing both the hope for justice and the risk of further tensions.

Muslim Parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi blames Pakistan

Owaisi, known as a great critic of Prime Minister Modi, spoke out strongly against the attack, saying Pakistan acted like ISIS by attacking innocent people in India. He asked what type of faith could justify such violence. He also argued that Pakistan should not claim to be a nuclear power while causing terror in other nations. Owaisi warned that India will not remain silent against these threats. His remarks were very clear, particularly when he blamed powerful groups and terrorist networks in Pakistan for purposely trying to stir up religious tensions in India. He accused them of targeting non-Muslims and trying to create conflicts between Hindus and Muslims.

Pakistan’s former Cricketer blames Pakistan

After the Pahalgam massacre, Danish Kaneria, a former leg spinner from Pakistan, raised his voice when the government in Islamabad remained silent. He questioned, “If Pakistan has no part in the Pahalgam terror attack, why hasn’t Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly condemned the incident? Why have your military forces become suddenly more alert? Deep down, you’re aware that you’re protecting and supporting terrorists. Shame on you.” His early remarks challenged the usual denials and diplomatic confusion. In a region already suffering from violence, his accusation spread like ripples in still water, breaking the silence and drawing attention from across borders.

Pakistan’s Response and the diplomatic, border war

Islamabad insisted it was not connected to the militants. They called for an independent investigation and accused Indian leaders of using the tragedy as a “false reason” for military action. India reacted strongly. They expelled Pakistani diplomats, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, and closed their borders and airspace to Pakistani flights. Pakistan responded by closing its ports to Indian ships, shutting its own airspace, and threatening to leave the 1972 Simla Agreement, which is crucial for maintaining the Line of Control in Kashmir. This breakdown in diplomatic communication, suspension of important agreements, and back-and-forth economic and military actions caused tensions to rise quickly. These actions led to fights across the LoC, pushing the two nuclear-armed neighbours into a new border conflict.

What’s Next for Kashmir?

Kashmir, known as “paradise on earth,” is now going through tough times. Its beautiful rivers are witnessing violence and struggle. The United Nations is urging everyone to act carefully and ensure the safety of people. India is at a crucial point where it must decide whether to respond with anger or choose a wiser and more peaceful path. To move forward, India needs to focus on smarter intelligence, advanced surveillance technology, and building strong trust with local communities. This can turn local people from passive onlookers into active partners in maintaining safety. By addressing wounds, restoring dignity, and ensuring the protection of all Kashmiris, India can work towards ending the violence. This approach will help Kashmir regain its peaceful identity, allowing a song of peace to echo through the mountains and reach across the world, rather than a song of sorrow.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.

Kashmir rejected terrorism and embraced tourism, which technically means Kashmir rejected the Pakistan’s interference and embraced India wholeheartedly

On August 5, 2019, the Indian Government revoked the special status granted under Article-370 of the Indian Constitution to Jammu and Kashmir, that buried the brutal past, and facilitated a new Kashmir by integrating it into the mainstream of Indian governance.

India’s Supreme Court this week upheld the validity of the Union Government’s 2019 decision to abolish the special status of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) under Article-370 of the Constitution. 

As every medicine tastes bitter, the decision initially met with resistance and protests, but has brought about a paradigm shift in Kashmir, with positive changes evident in various aspects of governance.

Prominent Kashmiri voice and human-rights activist Shehla Rashid initially opposed and criticized the decision to rescind Article-370. However, in the later years, she changed her stance, and praised India’s Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, and also the Lieutenant Governor of Kashmir Shri Manoj Sinha. It exudes her intellectual capacity to learn, relearn, and unlearn, to evolve into a better version of oneself.

According to Shehla, “The revocation of Article-370 in Jammu and Kashmir has brought about a significant shift, propelling the region towards development and progress. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the removal of Article-370 alone did not achieve this transformation. It is the result of consistent efforts by the Central government, the Lieutenant Governor Administration, and the security forces and police, over the past few years that have fostered an environment of peace, goodwill, and productivity”.

Shehla said, “For the first time in thirty years, the full academic calendar was followed. There have been no protests, curfews or strikes. Schools and colleges have been able to function without disruption”.

“On a side note, the academic session has been synced with the March session followed in the rest of India, as opposed to the earlier system which caused students from J&K to lose a year compared to their counterparts in the rest of the country”, she added.

Moreover, the recent incident in NIT Srinagar involving protests over an alleged blasphemy incident was carefully handled by the police and administration, with the Director General of Police Mr. R. R. Swain assuring people that the honor of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) is as important as the honor of the nation.

According to Kashmiri youth-icon Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman of Save Youth Save Future NGO, “A notable feature of the post-abrogation atmosphere is the concentrated effort on the youth of Kashmir. In contrast to previous periods marked by unrest, the last four years have witnessed a notable absence of violence”.

He said, “The positive transformation in Kashmir has not escaped global attention. The newfound stability and development have created a favorable environment for hosting international events. The successful hosting of the G20 summit and international cricket matches stands as a testament to the positive transformation in Kashmir”.

Eventually, Kashmir rejected terrorism and embraced tourism, which technically means Kashmir rejected the Pakistan’s interference and embraced India wholeheartedly.

The valley witnessed a significant surge in tourism, and the stone-pelting incidents dropped overwhelmingly. Schools and Colleges started functioning regularly. Protest-calendars vanished, and militancy started to shrink.

The Kashmiris started participating in sports and arts. The food processing plants started setting up, and the biggest event G20 took place. Moreover, foreign investments started flowing in.

Eventually a sense of belonging prevailed, and India won Kashmir by winning Kashmiris. The exclusion of Kashmiris was the food for Pakistani establishment to nurture the hate against India, and to sow the separatist mindset, which India was able to pushback strategically.

Following are the impactful factors explained by the Kashmiri Muslims and the activists, which are worth pondering.

Peace and Security

The removal of Article-370 has disrupted the networks that supported and enabled terrorist activities, that led to an overwhelming decline in the acts of terror, resulting in fewer civilian and security personnel casualties.

With stricter security measures and enhanced intelligence capabilities, the security forces have been successful in thwarting potential attacks and apprehending individuals involved in militant activities.

Moreover, the recruitment of local youth into militant ranks has significantly reduced. The removal of Article-370 has dismantled the narrative propagated by extremist elements, which often exploited the special status to fuel separatist sentiments and recruit vulnerable individuals.

The government’s efforts to engage with the youth through skill development programs, education, and job opportunities have provided alternative avenues and prevented them from falling into the trap of militancy.

The State Investigation Agency has also intensified its crackdown on terror funding. By targeting the financial networks that sustain terrorist activities, the authorities have dealt a severe blow to the infrastructure of terrorism. This has not only disrupted their operations but also weakened their influence in the region.

Overall, the abrogation of Article-370 has contributed to a substantial sense of security and peace in Kashmir.

Transparency and Accountability

The revocation of Article-370 in Jammu and Kashmir has brought about significant changes in governance, streamlining government processes, and making institutions more accessible to the people.

One of the notable improvements has been the implementation of transparent and efficient recruitment procedures. This has ensured fair selection for various positions, reducing favoritism and nepotism in the hiring process.

Merit-based recruitment has enabled qualified individuals to secure jobs based on their skills and qualifications rather than personal connections or ‘Waasta’.

The Lieutenant Governor Administration has also taken steps to address concerns about the integrity of exams. The introduction of measures such as online exams and the integration of technology has minimized the scope for malpractice and manipulation. This has not only enhanced the credibility of the examination system but has also provided equal opportunities for all candidates.

In addition to these changes, the integration of online services with a feedback system has empowered citizens to voice their opinions and share their experiences with government institutions. This feedback mechanism allows authorities to identify areas for improvement and address grievances promptly.

Even the government critics acknowledged the transparency of the institutions. The emphasis on fairness, efficiency, and accessibility has earned recognition for the positive changes implemented in governance.

Further, the removal of bureaucracy has boosted trust between the administration and the people, leading to a more inclusive and participatory system.

Community Power and Grassroots Democracy

Revocation of Article-370 has also had an impact on grassroots democracy, empowering local communities and enabling them to actively participate in decision-making processes.

The elections to Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) have played a crucial role in this empowerment. These institutions, at the village, block, and district levels, provide a platform for the people to elect their representatives and voice their concerns.

The participation of over 27,000 stakeholders in the PRI elections is a testament to the success of grassroots democracy in Kashmir. These elected representatives, who are from the local communities themselves, understand the ground realities and the needs of the people they serve. They act as a bridge between the government and the citizens, advocating for their rights and addressing their grievances.

According to Shehla, “Over 9,000 of these representatives are women, thereby ushering in a critical mass of grassroots women leaders who, in the future, will form cohort of empowered women seeking representation in legislatures once the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act comes into force”.

Through the PRIs, local communities have gained decision-making powers in areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and social welfare schemes. This decentralization of power has allowed for more targeted and effective governance, as decisions are made at the grassroots level, taking into consideration the specific needs and aspirations of the local people.

Moreover, the active participation of local communities in decision-making processes has fostered a sense of ownership and responsibility. It has encouraged individuals to take an active interest in the development of their villages and to contribute to the betterment of their communities. This bottom-up approach to governance has not only empowered the people but has also resulted in more inclusive and sustainable development.

Looking Forward

As Kashmiris move forward, the whopping transformation the Valley witnessed with the revocation of Article-370 serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of its people.

With peace, progress, and active participation from the local Kashmiri populace, a new era of harmony is anticipated to shine upon the region of Jammu and Kashmir, and the Kashmiris would enjoy its fruits.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran khan promised a lot on Kashmir and delivered little. His speech in United Nations was seen as a milestone by many. He attacked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi like no one has done before.

His statements suggested that Pakistan would take a very aggressive stance on Kashmir. Kashmiris finally saw hope in a leader who couldn’t be corrupted.

Nawaz Sharif was always blamed for preferring his own business over Pakistan and Kashmir. However after initial outburst Imran Khan seemed to be short of ideas.

Meanwhile, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan cleverly exploited Pakistani sentiments over Kashmir. He understood nothing could get him more support among Pakistanis than statements about Kashmir. That’s what he did, though it didn’t go beyond statements.

Talk of a new Muslim alliance supporting Kashmir was highlighted without actually suggesting anything concrete besides statements. So, Imran Khan went on path without knowing the road map.

Now with one year over and no progress, the government did some meaningless steps like issuing a new map, changing road signs and even composing a song.

Now to hide failures and being outsmarted by Modi it was important to create a distraction. That’s when they created the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Saudi story related to Kashmir.

It’s important to know Imran Khan’s party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) is the most pro-Iran party in Pakistan and was most vocal to oppose Pakistan’s intervention in Yemen.

Many PTI leaders are on an agenda to weaken Saudi-Pak relations. So Imran Khan created a hype about Kashmir and his foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi took a very aggressive stance, and their supporters couldn’t stop praising their tough stance on Kashmir.

Yet Qureshi suddenly came up with this statement that supported pro-India leaders in Kashmir who demanded restoration of Article-370. This goes totally against Pakistan’s stand on Kashmir that demands implementation of UN resolutions on Kashmir.

Saudi Arabia officially supports UN resolutions on Kashmir. Adel Jubeir said it explicitly in Delhi. Now Qureshi blames OIC and Saudi Arabia, and here he is climbing down on Pakistan’s historic stand on Kashmir.

He is supporting those who facilitated India’s occupation of Kashmir. This exposes his duplicity and deceit. He tried to make a scape-goat out of Saudi Arabia and OIC. If Pakistan itself is downgrading it’s stance how can we blame others?

Farjad Ahmed is an independent Political Analyst on Pakistan and Middle-eastern affairs. He tweets under @farjad99.

Police and CRPF personnel were deployed in strength across the valley to ensure that the plans of the separatists to disturb peace did not succeed, officials said.

They said police vehicles, fitted with public address systems, went around localities announcing imposition of strict curfew for two days.

“People are requested not to violate the law and stay indoors, ” the police said.

Barricades have been set up at hundreds of places in Kashmir, including Srinagar city, to regulate movement of essential services and emergencies while concertina wires have been also been laid, the officials said.

Srinagar District Magistrate Shahid Iqbal Choudhary issued an order that any such mass gathering would also be detrimental to efforts related to COVID containment.

He added that, movement and crowd gathering have been prohibited to avoid the spread of infection, particularly in the wake of recent surge in COVID cases.

“Therefore, after having considered the material facts in said report and examining the situation in backdrop of prevailing factors, I, District Magistrate, Srinagar, by virtue of powers vested in me u/s 144 Cr PC hereby order complete restrictions on public movement/curfew in territorial jurisdiction of District Srinagar,” the order read.

The Centre had repealed provisions of the article that gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, and bifurcated it into union territories of Ladakh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

“Our conservative estimates put the losses to the Kashmir economy due to the situation after August 5 at ₹15,000 crore. We will be coming up with comprehensive data about the losses within a week,” Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) president Sheikh Ashiq Hussain told PTI.

More than the losses to the economy, job loss due to clampdown on Internet services, protests and strikes was more worrying, he said.

The handicraft, tourism and e-commerce sectors were the worst hit by the situation post the Centre’s decision, Mr. Hussain said.

Though most restrictions have been lifted, the clampdown, which started on August 5, on internet services across all platforms and prepaid mobile phone still remains.

Postpaid cellphones and landlines are working in the Valley. SMS on postpaid phones are shut.

“The handicraft sector alone has witnessed over 50,000 people losing their jobs. The artisans were not getting any fresh orders in the absence of communication facilities. Even, the highly skilled artisans have been forced to look for odd jobs to meet their daily needs,” he said.

Mr. Hussain claimed that the hotel and restaurant industry has seen more than 30,000 people losing their jobs. The e-commerce sector, which includes courier services for purchases made online, has seen 10,000 people losing their jobs, he said.

“The Information Technology industry got some relief after the internet lease lines were restored for this sector but the overall situation of trade in Kashmir is dismal,” he said.

In Kashmir, markets open earlier than usual but close down by 1 pm as part of an undeclared protest programme against the stripping of the erstwhile state’s special status.

The tourism sector suffered the most as the J&K government issued an advisory to all non-locals, including tourists, to leave the Valley ahead of the August 5 announcement.

Though the advisory was revoked, tourists have by and large stayed away from Kashmir, even though there was early snowfall in Kashmir this November, which is a major attraction.

Consequently, a full-blown insurgency, like that in Vietnam, is bound to emerge soon, and then body bags will start coming back.

A time comes to speak the truth, and I suppose that time has come and it is I who will have to bell the cat. So here it is: Kashmir will soon become what Vietnam was for the French and the Americans, Afghanistan for the Russians, and Spain for Napoleon.

Those who are today gloating over their ‘great victory’ of abolishing Article 370 will soon wake up to a nightmare once body bags start coming back in large numbers from Kashmir, like what the Americans saw return from Vietnam.

Internet and mobiles are today a necessity, not a luxury. Depriving a person of these for even one day can make one miserable, so one can imagine the plight of people going without them for almost two months. Added to this are the curfews and other restrictions.

Remove the restrictions, and popular protests will engulf the whole valley. Continue them, and the pot will boil until it explodes. As is said in Hindi, the situation is such that ‘na nigalte bane, na ugalte bane’—one can neither swallow it, nor vomit it.

The truth is that due to the ill-conceived and short-sighted policies of the central governments towards Kashmir for decades, and particularly after the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, almost the entire population of Kashmir is today totally alienated and bitterly hostile to India. Consequently, a full-blown insurgency, like that in Vietnam, is bound to emerge soon, and then body bags will start coming back.

An army can fight another army, it cannot fight the masses. A tiger can kill an antelope, it cannot kill a swarm of mosquitoes. Napoleon realised this in Russia (read Tolstoy’s War and Peace), and General Westmoreland in Vietnam.

No doubt, we have half a million military and paramilitary forces in Kashmir, but how do they fight an enemy who cannot be seen, who moves in the shadows, who is nowhere and everywhere? We have created a situation where large-scale guerrilla war is bound to emerge, and the guerrilla has the advantage of surprise, using hit-and-run tactics, and deciding the place, time and duration of the attack and also of their swift withdrawal.

A guerrilla war is a cruel war, in which none of the rules of conventional war are observed. As it develops, as is bound to happen in Kashmir, more and more non-militants will become militants, for when a non-militant sees his innocent relative or friend killed in a crossfire, he becomes incensed and joins the militants. So the number of militants, presently said to be only a few hundred, is bound to rapidly increase.

Where all this will end no one can say. But, one thing can be said for sure: We are in for the long haul in Kashmir.

Article first published in The Week.

Justice Markandey Katju retired from the Supreme Court in 2011.

Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not reflect Milli Chronicle’s point-of-view.