Kashmiris Not Being Told Anything, Every Rumour is Torture: Locals

They believe that the special rights given to them by Article 370 have been snatched away from them.

Security personnel stand guard during restrictions, in Jammu, Monday, 5, August. 

(Photo: The Quint)

Video Editor: Abhishek Sharma

The Parliament on Tuesday, 6 August, approved a resolution revoking the special status accorded to Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Articles 370 and 35A, and dividing the erstwhile state into two Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

But what do local Kashmiris, in Srinagar, think about this move?

A hotel management professional, Sajjad Ahmed, told The Quint that Kashmiris don’t accept the change. He also said, “We were not told anything about this. Neither our governor nor PM Modi told us anything.”

A dhaba owner, Shyamusuddin said, “Without our consent or opinion, we are being detached from what is happening in Parliament. We aren’t getting to know anything.”

“The truth is that everyday we are tortured several times, once by every rumour.”

Shyamusuddin, Kashmiri local

“We should also be in the know so that we can prepare. We have nothing to eat or drink. We can’t connect to our kin. My family members, my parents are worried because I am in another district,” said Ahmed.

The Kashmiri locals believe that the special rights that were given to them because of Article 370 have been snatched away from them.

“It’s like we have been imprisoned by India. If India claims that we are a part of it, then sit and solve the issue.”

Another local, who wanted to remain anonymous, said that whatever is happening in the Valley with Article 370, shouldn’t happen. “It just started overnight. It will only lead to a lot of damage.”

“We have been fighting for 30-40 years. Our brothers and sisters have been martyred. Everyone is disturbed about what is happening here,” said Sajjad, adding, “We want peace.”