Jammu and Kashmir is on high alert on the fifth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370, which took place on August 5, 2019. Five years ago, the special status and statehood of Jammu and Kashmir were revoked, and the state was divided into two Union Territories. This anniversary has sparked contrasting reactions, with the BJP celebrating the occasion and opposition parties condemning it as a ‘black day’ in India’s history.
To commemorate the anniversary, the Jammu and Kashmir unit of BJP is holding an ‘Ekatma Mahatsav’ rally. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the Congress and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are staging protests. A local PDP leader has announced a demonstration outside the party headquarters in Gandhinagar, while the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) will hold a protest at the Maharaja Hari Singh Park to denounce the abrogation of Article 370.
Security measures across Jammu and Kashmir have been significantly enhanced. In the Akhnoor LoC area, Jammu and Kashmir Police have established checkposts at various locations and intensified patrolling. Police personnel are rigorously verifying vehicles and documents. This heightened security posture extends to the Akhnoor district, where the police are on high alert.
SP South Jammu, Ajay Sharma, cited recent terrorist activity as the reason for the heightened security measures. He emphasized that the police are vigilant, regardless of the occasion, and assured the public that no effort is being spared in ensuring security. In addition to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, other security agencies are also in a state of alert.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) data indicates a surge in terrorist attacks in the Jammu region in recent months. This includes an attack on an army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur. Up to July 21, 2023, there have been 11 terror-related incidents and 24 encounters, resulting in the deaths of 28 people, including civilians and security personnel.
