Islamabad: The Modi-led Indian government has been criticized for a recent decision to enhance the powers of the Lieutenant Governor in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), a move seen as an attempt to diminish the influence and autonomy of Kashmiris.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the report released today argues that granting additional authority to the unelected Lieutenant Governor serves to undermine the prospects of a democratically elected government in IIOJK. This action is viewed as part of a broader strategy initiated by the Modi government since August 2019, following the revocation of Kashmir’s special status and the imposition of a military siege. The report also contends that these changes are aimed at imposing Hindutva ideology in the region. Omar Abdullah, a leader from the National Conference, voiced his opposition in Srinagar, stating that IIOJK deserves better than a powerless, nominal Chief Minister. The report further discusses the various measures taken post-August 2019 aimed at the political, constitutional, cultural, and economic disempowerment of the Kashmiri people. It warns of continuous conspiracies to enforce the Hindutva agenda and calls for vigilance among Kashmiris to counteract these maneuvers.