Protests Erupt in IIOJK against Modi’s Anti-Kashmiris Policies

Protest demonstrations erupted in the Srinagar and Kupwara districts of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting growing discontent against the policies of the New Delhi-installed administration. The unrest was fueled by various grievances, with different groups expressing their concerns and demands.

In Srinagar, contractual lecturers from various colleges gathered at Amar Singh College to protest against an administrative order that sought to transition them into guest faculty roles. The lecturers argued that this move would significantly reduce their salaries, emphasizing the disparity in treatment compared to lecturers in other Indian states. The group, consisting of over 2,000 lecturers working under precarious terms, called for transparency in the recruitment process and the immediate filling of vacant positions across Kashmiri colleges. They warned of resorting to hunger strikes if their grievances were not promptly addressed.

Meanwhile, in Kupwara, a group comprising specially-abled and elderly individuals took to the streets to voice their dissatisfaction with the authorities. Their primary concern was the failure to receive a monthly pension for several months. The protesters, including old-age persons, individuals with disabilities, widows, and divorcees, lamented the lack of a Rs 1000 monthly pension for the past nine months, leading to immense hardships.

During the protest in front of the DC office, a physically disabled individual shared his struggle, citing an inability to afford essential medicines due to financial constraints. “I, along with other persons, have completed all the formalities, but still, we have been deprived of the pension,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a protestor. Expressing frustration, he added, “We are struggling for our survival, but the concerned authorities seem to be insensitive regarding our hardships.”

The protesters collectively demanded the immediate implementation of the Disability Act to ensure that they can access their entitled rights. Their outcry reflects a broader sentiment of frustration and dissatisfaction with the administrative policies imposed by New Delhi in the region.

These demonstrations shed light on the multifaceted challenges faced by different segments of the population in Jammu and Kashmir. Whether it be lecturers grappling with uncertain employment conditions or vulnerable individuals denied essential financial support, the protests underscore the urgent need for addressing systemic issues and fostering inclusivity in the region. The response of the authorities to these grievances will likely shape the trajectory of future discontent and civil unrest in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.