Introduction
The Tension at LoC and Kashmir Demolition Drive has intensified the security and political crisis in Jammu & Kashmir. Following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, security forces launched an aggressive crackdown, demolishing houses linked to terrorists. Meanwhile, small arms fire exchanges at the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan entered the third consecutive day, forcing civilians into underground shelters. Regional leaders across Kashmir are warning against indiscriminate actions that could alienate innocent citizens.
Rising Tensions at the Line of Control (LoC)
The LoC remains volatile as Indian and Pakistani armies engaged in small arms fire across sectors like Tutmari Gali and Rampur. According to an Army spokesman, Pakistan initiated unprovoked fire, prompting Indian forces to respond appropriately (Source: The Hindu).
The escalating situation has led to mass evacuations. Residents in Rajouri, Poonch, and Jammu districts have sought safety in underground bunkers as fear of a broader confrontation looms large.
In a tragic incident in north Kashmir, a civilian named Ghulam Rasool Magray was shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Kupwara, further aggravating the already tense environment.
The Demolition Drive Post-Pahalgam Attack
Security forces have demolished at least ten houses suspected to be linked to terrorist outfits like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad, and Hizbul Mujahideen. Controlled blasts were carried out to dismantle the properties.
One notable case was the demolition of Jameel Ahmad Shergojri’s home, suspected of joining terror groups in 2016. Although only a portion of the three-storey house was destroyed, the visuals of families salvaging belongings triggered public outrage.
Political Leaders React
Prominent Kashmiri leaders raised serious concerns about the ongoing demolition strategy:
- Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of J&K, stated: “Punish the guilty, show them no mercy but don’t let innocent people become collateral damage.”
- Mehbooba Mufti, former CM and PDP President, urged the government to differentiate between militants and civilians, emphasizing the risk of alienating the population. She warned that: “Alienation aids terrorists’ goals of division and fear.”
- Umar Farooq, Hurriyat Chairman, highlighted that Kashmiris collectively condemned the Pahalgam attack but cautioned against indiscriminate actions that could further distress families.
- Sheikh Khurshid, MLA from Langate, called the demolition drive a form of “collective punishment,” incompatible with democratic norms.
These reactions underline the growing consensus that justice must prevail without further marginalizing the innocent population.
Controversies Surrounding the Arrests and Deaths
Another controversy brewing is the death of Altaf Lalli, who was initially detained by police and later killed in an encounter. His family alleges that due legal process was not followed, and the authorities mishandled the burial rights, shifting his body to Handwara instead of his native Bandipora. (Source: Indian Express)
Additionally, J&K Police have detained social media handlers for allegedly spreading misinformation related to the Ajas encounter. The authorities claimed that such activities could destabilize regional security.
Human Rights Concerns and Need for Transparency
As the Tension at LoC and Kashmir Demolition Drive continues, human rights advocates have demanded transparent investigations into arrests, demolitions, and deaths. Leaders like Mehbooba Mufti have rightly emphasized that justice and trust are Kashmir’s strongest weapons against terrorism.
There is growing pressure on the central and state governments to ensure that anti-terror operations:
- Focus strictly on militants
- Avoid blanket actions against communities
- Uphold democratic and humanitarian values
International organizations like Amnesty International have previously flagged concerns over such demolition drives in conflict areas, urging governments to balance security needs with human rights protections.
Conclusion
The situation in Kashmir today is a delicate balancing act between fighting terrorism and preserving civilian trust. The Tension at LoC and Kashmir Demolition Drive showcase the complexity of operating in a conflict zone. Authorities must ensure that genuine anti-terror efforts do not devolve into actions that fuel resentment and instability.
As leaders from across the political spectrum voice their concerns, there is a clear message: Security and peace must be pursued without compromising justice and humanity.
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