Srinagar: Indian authorities have intensified military presence and security measures along the Srinagar-Jammu highway in the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), increasing control over civilian movement.

According to Kashmir Media Service, additional forces from the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and local police have been stationed at strategic points in the districts of Kathua and Udhampur, which the highway traverses. Numerous new checkpoints have been established to monitor the movement of vehicles and individuals.

The use of sniffer dogs and advanced surveillance equipment to scan vehicles entering the Kashmir Valley has heightened the already restrictive atmosphere in the region.

While Indian officials assert that the security clampdown is a response to recent attacks and ongoing cordon and search operations, local residents perceive the measures as an attempt to instill fear, suppress dissent, and discourage Kashmiris from pursuing their right to self-determination as mandated by the United Nations.

In addition, security restrictions have been intensified in Reasi ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s anticipated visit. Indian media reports that Modi is set to visit the district on April 19 to inaugurate the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.