Restrictions intensified in IIOJK ahead of Pahalgam “false flag” anniversary
Massive troop deployment, surveillance raise concerns among locals
Srinagar: Indian authorities have imposed sweeping restrictions across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the anniversary of the Pahalgam incident, raising concerns among residents who view the move as part of a continued pattern of control and intimidation.
According to Kashmir Media Service, strict restrictions have been put in place in the name of security measures across major tourist destinations and sensitive areas, with additional deployments of Indian troops, intensified surveillance and frequent checking operations.
Officials said all forces have been placed on high alert, while ground-level and high-level meetings have been conducted to finalize security plans.
The measures come ahead of April 22, marking one year since the deadly incident at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam in Islamabad district.
Indian authorities have attributed the attack to militants, while Kashmiris and observers have questioned the narrative, terming it a “false flag operation” used to justify further militarization and restrictions in the territory.
Under the new mechanism, pony operators, vendors and other workers have been subjected to background checks and issued QR code-based identification, containing personal and official details, further tightening control over economic activities linked to tourism.
Senior police officials, including Inspector General V K Birdi, have chaired multiple review meetings directing forces to strengthen security around tourist spots and key installations. Personnel from various agencies, including police, paramilitary forces and disaster response units, have been deployed in large numbers.
Analysts and civil society members say the continued imposition of such measures reflects a broader strategy of enforcing control in the garb of security. They argue that repeated use of such incidents to justify restrictions, surveillance and militarization has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, while also raising serious questions about the intent behind these actions.
