The ugly face of India, which claims to be the world's largest democracy, has been exposed to the world through recent developments in occupied Kashmir. The region's demographic composition is being manipulated through a series of controversial measures.
Occupied Kashmir is divided into 58% Ladakh, 26% Jammu, and 16% the Kashmir Valley. Modi's administration is employing every tactic to distort the Muslim identity of Kashmir, a move that has sparked international criticism. The unconstitutional elimination of Articles 370 and 35-A is viewed as a clear violation of Article 49 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, posing major legal and humanitarian issues.
In a recent move, the Census Commission increased the number of seats in majority areas from 83 to 90, while only a 1% increase was granted to seats in Muslim-majority areas. This adjustment further complicates the political landscape of the region.
Additionally, the Indian army has illegally acquired 56,000 acres of land in occupied Kashmir, aggravating tensions and adding to the current issues. Under new domicile laws, over five million Hindus have been granted domicile status in Kashmir, further altering the region's demographic balance.
The Modi government also plans to create a new division in occupied Kashmir with a Hindu majority, encompassing the districts of Kishtwar, Anantnag, and Kulgam. This proposed division is part of a broader strategy to transform the region from a Muslim-majority area into a Hindu-majority region.
The Jammu and Kashmir Languages Bill, Control of Building Operations Act, Jammu and Kashmir Development Act, and Forest Rights Act amendments are all part of this nefarious plan, which is now in its final stages.
The main goal of the Modi government's efforts appears to be the annexation of occupied Kashmir, generating serious concerns about the future of the area and its residents.