Kashmir sees new wave of attacks as local government changes hands
Recent terrorist attack in Srinagar left multiple victims‚ showing rise in regional violence. New local government faces security challenges while experts point to complex mix of internal and external factors
A deadly grenade blast hit Srinagars flea-market in early Nov‚ injuring eleven shoppers with one fatality — marking a troubling shift in Kashmirʼs security situation
The incident happened just weeks after Omar Abdullahʼs government took charge‚ adding to this years toll of 44 deaths (including security staff) in the Hindu-majority Jammu region
Three key-factors might explain this up-tick in violence: First‚ Pakistanʼs security forces could be trying to under-mine the new administration led by Abdullah — the vice-president of National Conference party. Second: local un-rest following the removal of Article 370 (which changed Kashmirʼs self-rule status about 5 years ago). Third: Indiaʼs military re-positioning due to border issues with China that started roughly 4 years back
The regions economic state isnt helping either — high jobless rates and slow growth created a mix of problems for young people. After the Supreme Court backed Article 370s removal last December many Kashmir Valley Muslims felt their rights might be at risk
Narendra Modiʼs government‚ which came back to power in mid-2024 seems focused on other matters. Their current response includes:
- Adding more troops in troubled areas
- Increasing security checks
- Using military solutions for political issues
The new coalition government (without police powers) faces hard times ahead — dealing with both security threats and peoples hopes for better life
