‘Despite the challenges, we participated in the elections with unwavering determination. We unequivocally condemned the Pahalgam attack, and our selfless actions saved tourists at the cost of our own safety. Yet, our efforts were met with hate, jingoism, humiliation, and unjust searches and arrests. Is this how people should be treated?’ Aarif (name changed due to security concerns), a pony rider, expressed his frustration when I inquired about the situation in his hometown near Pahalgam.

The world is holding its breath as both countries enter a war mode, with ammunition and deployment in full swing

The terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, has left twenty-five tourists and one local dead, with many more injured. Following the attack, India blamed Pakistan and pledged to respond with an iron fist. Pakistan has denied involvement and demanded an international probe to identify the perpetrators. The world is holding its breath as both countries enter a war mode, with ammunition and deployment in full swing.

The moist eyes, shrunken face, and wrinkled expressions of Aarif told the story of every soul in Kashmir who, while not only deprived of their livelihood by this terror incident, has been scarred and made insecure by the horrible experience of questioning and quizzing by security forces.

‘I am a target for both: them and these (referring to Pakistan and Indian security forces). They both want me dead. Look at my fate.

‘I am a target for both: them and these (referring to Pakistan and Indian security forces). They both want me dead. Look at my fate. The tourists were taken to safe places or asked to leave Kashmir. Where will I go? Is there any place safe for me? How many times do I have to prove my loyalty? Or is this how it is?’ His voice broke as he wiped his tears.

I found myself at a loss for words to comfort him, unable to muster the courage I had shown earlier when he was dejected and wanted to pretend to be a gunman, seeking a chance to end his life. That day, convincing him to earn a living, care for his family, and live a normal life was easy. Now, it felt impossible, as he had lost hope for the future despite facing many life odds.

‘When every Kashmiri was labelled a terrorist, we were beaten and kicked out, not even given a place to rent in many states. Why? Either believe in us or leave us to our fate.’ He didn’t look at me.

It took time to process his pain, but the rage in his eyes was unsettling, and I, too, felt apprehensive about the future of my youth, born under the shadow of a gun.

After nearly six years, I reached out to him once more. He required guidance during that period, and now, he feels adrift and disheartened.

‘My fate has been unjust. I am forced to learn to limp, not walk.’

The untimely passing of his father abruptly shattered his aspiration to earn a degree. With three sisters and an ailing mother to support, he was compelled to seek employment within the district, constrained by the heavy presence of security forces and rigid patriarchal norms. The summer income from tourism and yatra, coupled with his earnings from menial labour, became the lifeline for his family. ‘My fate has been unjust. I am forced to learn to limp, not walk.’ He would sigh each time he reflected on his dream of obtaining a degree.

Aarif embodies the grief and frustration of sixty per cent of youth who find themselves at a crossroads, as their education, degrees, and livelihoods are adversely affected following the Pahalgam attack.

Kashmir has been the site of numerous attacks, yet the media’s portrayal has endangered every Kashmiri. The relentless animosity directed at Kashmir has resulted in assaults on students in educational institutions, their forced exodus from the state, and the closure of many businesses.

How ironic it is to hear the world discussing Kashmir while only Kashmiris are silenced?

How ironic it is to hear the world discussing Kashmir while only Kashmiris are silenced.

This situation has persisted for ages, but since 2019, not a single voice from Kashmir has been permitted to share their story. A singular narrative has dominated, conveying to the world that the situation in Kashmir has changed, that the people have changed, and that daily life continues as it does in other states of India. Interest in visiting the picturesque region of Kashmir has surged.

Instead of addressing the fundamental issues faced by over one crore people, mainstream media has showcased videos of tourists revelling in the beauty of the region, leading the world to believe that conditions in Kashmir have improved mistakenly.

Undoubtedly, for several years, while 1.5 to 2 million Hindus have come annually for the Amarnath Yatra, 3 million tourists have visited for sightseeing, with every effort made to ensure a conducive environment. However, particular areas of Jammu have witnessed a rise in violent attacks. The local population has been navigating these challenges while quietly earning their livelihoods. Yet, watching the media has become a source of anguish since the abrogation of Article 370, which was perceived as both a triumph and a defeat for the local populace.

Only two narratives have captured the attention of mainstream media: the influx of tourists into Kashmir and various terrorist incidents. How does a population of 12 million feel politically, economically, or socially powerless after the withdrawal of the region’s internal autonomy? This issue has been settled and forgotten. Why are hundreds of prisoners incarcerated without charges? How are individuals being dismissed from their jobs for trivial social media posts, and what challenges do they face daily? Mainstream media remains indifferent to these Concerns, which persist as local media faces silencing and suppression.

Kashmiris attempting to share their stories of helplessness through social media have encountered harassment on many occasions. It seems that the voices of ordinary people are neither to be heard nor allowed to speak, although only two countries in the world impose such strict bans on social media: North Korea and Burma, both of which do not claim to be democracies.

Historically, pro-freedom Kashmiris have boycotted assembly or parliamentary elections on numerous occasions. However, this time, social media has played a pivotal role in encouraging public participation in voting, even among those who had never voted before and were sceptical of Indian democracy.

The tumultuous last thirty-five years have fostered divisions and distances among various communities

The tumultuous last thirty-five years have fostered divisions and distances among various communities. Reconciliation seemed impossible. Families in Kashmir found themselves split between Pakistan and India, often not having met for decades. Social media has provided a corridor for these families, allowing them to reconnect by sharing stories of past sorrows. Many superstitions have been dispelled, differences have been discussed, and the wall of hatred has, to some extent, been dismantled.

In response to attacks on tourists in Pahalgam, a unified voice emerged through social media. Kashmiris from diverse backgrounds came together for the first time, sending a powerful message of unity against terror. Despite numerous restrictions, they lack the strength to endure the bloodshed that has impacted nearly every household.

Yet, is the use of social media acceptable only as long as it avoids addressing the issues faced by the Kashmiri people, refraining from demanding their political rights or a life free from harassment? These are the questions that people often whisper to one another.

If mainstream media has already stifled the voices of Kashmiris, should social media discussions be encouraged or suppressed to prevent an eruption of dissent?

Those who advocate for democracy must recognise that, under its guise, they may inadvertently support the authoritarian regime in Kashmir

Those who advocate for democracy must recognise that, under its guise, they may inadvertently support the authoritarian regime in Kashmir. Here, the space for locals has diminished, job opportunities have dwindled, and homes are being demolished as a form of collective punishment.

Aarif is not alone in his agitation and anger regarding the response of the majority population in India following the attack; instead, the entire community feels disheartened by the constant demand to prove their loyalty.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author. They do not represent the views, beliefs, or policies of the Stratheia.