Srinagar: Indian forces have detained seven Kashmiri youth in a series of raids across several districts in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, intensifying the already strained relations within the region. These arrests are part of broader operations that locals and activists are decrying as acts of state-sponsored terrorism.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the operations led by Indian troops included cordon and search activities that resulted in the arrest of three individuals in Bijbehara, located in the Islamabad district. Additional arrests included four youth in Billawar, Kathua district, and one in Basantgarh, Udhampur district. Following their arrest, all individuals were transferred to various interrogation centers, indicating a likely extended period of custody and questioning.
The response from local Hurriyat leaders and organizations has been one of strong condemnation. Statements issued in Srinagar have criticized the continuous detentions and called upon the international community to intervene. They urge global actors to pressurize India to uphold human rights and freedoms for the Kashmiri population, reflecting growing desperation among locals and advocates for an end to what they describe as oppressive tactics by Indian authorities.