Despite India being known as the world's largest democracy, concerns are growing over its recent measures in Kashmir.
The occupied Kashmir area is divided into Ladakh (58%), Jammu (26%), and the Kashmir Valley (16%). The Modi government is employing various tactics, including the use of military force, to alter the Muslim identity of the region.
#Modi govt's tactics unveiled in #IndianOccupiedKashmir!#India's facade of democracy crumbles as it manipulates demographics.#Unconstitutional changes violate Geneva Convention (IV).#Census manipulation favors certain areas.#SamaaTV pic.twitter.com/PVYF89SnE4
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) February 1, 2024
The decision to revoke Article 370 and 35-A, violating Article 49 of the Geneva Convention, has been widely criticized.
Changes in the Census Commission have increased seats in non-Muslim majority areas, while only marginally affecting Muslim majority regions.
Reports also indicate the seizure of 56 thousand acres of land by Indian forces in occupied Kashmir. The introduction of new domicile laws has granted domicile status to over 5 lakh Hindus in the region.
The Modi government's move to establish colonies for Pandits, following the Israeli model, and the intention to create a new division with a Hindu majority have raised concerns about demographic shifts in the area.
Changes in language laws, building regulations, development acts, and forest rights further indicate a transformation from a Muslim majority to a Hindu majority in occupied Kashmir. Critics argue that all these measures are part of the Indian government's efforts to tighten control over the region.