India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi made his first official visit to Kashmir's main city since New Delhi stripped the disputed region of semi-autonomy and took direct control of it in 2019. Addressing a crowd in a soccer stadium in Srinagar, Modi announced development projects and stated that previous governments had misled people over the region's now-scrapped special status.
Modi emphasized the region's progress since the 2019 move, expressing his commitment to winning the hearts of the people. He accused Kashmir’s pro-India parties of corruption, misleading Kashmiris, and promoting separatism, while Kashmiri politicians criticized Modi as divisive and anti-minority.
Security was tight across the Kashmir Valley, with armed paramilitary troops and police maintaining vigilance. Modi did not mention plans for elections or restoring statehood, despite demands from Kashmir's pro-India political parties. The region has been under direct central government control since 2019, following the revocation of its semi-autonomous status.
India's Home Minister Amit Shah has pledged to restore statehood after elections, as mandated by the Supreme Court. The region has faced tensions due to new laws that residents fear could alter its demographics. Modi's visit is seen as part of his campaign ahead of national elections scheduled for April and May.
Security measures in Kashmir have been common since the insurgency began in 1989. The region is divided between India and Pakistan, with both countries claiming it in its entirety. India views the Kashmir militancy as Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, while Pakistan considers it a legitimate freedom struggle. The conflict has resulted in numerous casualties over the years.
Authorities in Srinagar implemented stringent security measures ahead of Modi’s visit, including road closures, frisking of residents, and closure of schools. The event underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the complex dynamics surrounding Kashmir's status and future.
