Jammu: Anuradha Bhasin, managing editor of Kashmir Times, described the recent attack in Pahalgam as an “explosion of venom,” linking it to the changes implemented since India revoked Kashmir’s special status in August 2019. The attack, which occurred on April 22, has drawn global condemnation and has brought attention to the ongoing tensions in the region.

Bhasin, who currently resides in the United States, has been a vocal critic of the Indian government’s policies in Kashmir. In her 2022 book, “A Dismantled State: The Untold Story of Kashmir After 370,” she critiqued the decisions made on August 5, 2019, and examined the narrative promoted by the Hindu nationalist BJP. Bhasin has long been an advocate for media freedom and civil liberties in the region, and faced retaliation in 2020 when the Kashmir Times’ Srinagar office was sealed by authorities.

In a media interview following the Pahalgam incident, Bhasin criticized the Indian government for its portrayal of Kashmir as a peaceful tourist destination. She argued that the government’s assurances of normalcy have left tourists vulnerable, and that the lack of adequate security measures has exposed the falsehood of these claims. Bhasin stressed that the attack was unprecedented and contrary to the fundamental ethos of hospitality in Kashmir.

When questioned about the reasons behind the attack, Bhasin expressed uncertainty, citing the rarity of such incidents targeting tourists. She noted the deep-seated resentment among Kashmiris due to the changes since 2019, including the loss of political rights and increased repression. Bhasin pointed out that the government’s narrative of normalcy is not reflected on the ground, where many feel disempowered and marginalized.

Bhasin also commented on the recent IIOJK Assembly election and the challenges faced by the elected government. Despite the victory of the National Conference, led by Omar Abdullah, the political dispensation lacks significant power in the federally administered territory. Bhasin highlighted the introduction of new laws threatening the livelihoods of native Kashmiris and the atmosphere of fear and surveillance prevalent in the region.

The issue of domicile certificates for non-Kashmiris further exacerbates tensions. Bhasin noted that over 83,000 such certificates have been issued in the past two years, which contributes to the sense of marginalization felt by Kashmiris. She emphasized that the broader politics of the Hindu right wing across India and the anti-Muslim sentiment contribute to the radicalization and venomous reactions observed.

While the exact responsibility for the attack remains unclear, Bhasin pointed to the harsh realities on the ground as underlying factors. She acknowledged the possibility of local involvement in the incident, citing the suffocating atmosphere and suppression in Kashmir as unsustainable and likely to provoke reactions.