Srinagar: Indian troops have arrested two youths in separate areas of the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, raising concerns about continued tensions in the region.

According to Kashmir Media Service, personnel from the Indian army’s Rashtriya Rifles and the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force detained a youth during a cordon and search operation on the Circular Road in Pulwama district. In a separate incident, Shahid Saleem Lone, 27, was apprehended by Indian forces at a checkpoint in the Chhampura Handwara area of Kupwara district.

The troops have justified these arrests by alleging that the youths were pro-freedom activists. However, these actions are viewed as part of a broader strategy by Indian authorities to intimidate the local population. The frequent detentions and arrests of people in IIOJK are seen as efforts to suppress dissent and undermine the Kashmiris’ demand for self-determination.