Escalating Raids in IIOJK: Indian Forces Involved in Looting and Mass Arrests

A surge in house raids and arrests by Indian forces in Srinagar has deepened the humanitarian crisis in IIOJK, with locals accusing troops of theft, property damage, and widespread intimidation.

Indian forces have intensified house raids and search operations throughout Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), with a heavy concentration of these actions taking place in Srinagar.

According to local reports, the raids are being conducted under the controversial Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which critics argue gives Indian forces unchecked power. During these operations, personnel forcibly enter homes and confiscate vital personal belongings such as bank documents, property papers, mobile phones, laptops, and other digital equipment.

In addition to these seizures, the troops have been accused of causing significant damage to private property. Eyewitnesses and victims allege that forces frequently vandalize homes, steal gold jewelry, and loot cash during the raids, compounding the trauma for affected families.

Over the past two weeks, more than 100 homes in Srinagar city alone have been subjected to such invasive operations. The psychological and financial toll on residents continues to grow, with many afraid to speak publicly due to fear of retaliation.

Alongside the house raids, Indian police have launched a sweeping crackdown campaign across various parts of the IIOJK. In just two weeks, over 2,800 Kashmiri youth have reportedly been arrested. These arrests have sparked widespread concern, as many detainees are believed to be held without formal charges or due legal process.

Residents and human rights groups see these actions as part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent and silence the Kashmiri population. The increasing use of UAPA, a law criticized by international rights organizations for its vague definitions and harsh penalties, reflects what many see as a growing authoritarian approach by the Indian government.

In Srinagar and beyond, the situation has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Families report sudden night raids, unlawful detentions, and the constant threat of being labeled as “anti-national” under the UAPA.

Observers argue that these heavy-handed tactics are aimed at crushing resistance to India’s control over the disputed territory. Critics also point out that such aggressive measures are worsening tensions rather than promoting stability.

The ongoing crackdown has drawn condemnation from Kashmiri political and civil society leaders, who are calling for international attention and intervention. Many are urging human rights organizations and the United Nations to investigate these violations and pressure India to halt its repressive measures in the region.

Until such steps are taken, the people of IIOJK remain trapped in a cycle of fear, violence, and enforced silence.