As the tensions rise in the disputed region, the mobile phone networks and internet services are reportedly being cut in Indian-occupied Kashmir. Meanwhile, public gatherings have been banned and schools are kept closed by the Indian authorities.
The latest tensions in the disputed region between India-Pakistan started almost 10 days after Government of India deployed at least 10,000 troops, whereas further 70,000 had also been reportedly deployed at a later stage according to AFP.
Renowned international media outlets including The Guardian have confirmed that prominent politicians in Indian-administered Kashmir have been placed under house arrest, while communications to Kashmir valley have been cut off following a security crackdown and fears of unrest.
According to reports, since last week Indian authorities had imposed a curfew in India-occupied Kashmir, shut down communication networks including private mobile networks, internet services, and telephone landlines cut. The authorities have deployed tens of thousands of soldiers from across India to implement something that seemed a mystery.
Major districts of the occupied valley are placed under restrictions and it is feared that India is preparing to scrap Kashmir’s special status, which prevents people from outside of the state from buying land in the territory.
Before internet services were cut, Mehbooba Mufti, a regional leader, and Modi’s former ally wrote on Twitter:
“How ironic that elected representatives like us who fought for peace are under house arrest. The world watches as people & their voices are being muzzled in J&K. The same Kashmir that chose a secular democratic India is facing oppression of unimaginable magnitude. Wake up India.”
She also wrote about the incidents happening after curfew was imposed on Twitter by stating;
Hope those who accused us of rumour mongering realise that our fears weren’t misplaced. Leaders under house arrest, broadband services suspended & section 144 enforced isn’t normal by any standard.
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) August 4, 2019
It is worth mentioning here that Indian govt is creating a scare just a few days ahead of Eid. Following their tradition, the ruling Hindu nationalists have once again demonstrated deep hostility towards the sentiments of Muslims.
