India Using Land Seizures to Crush Freedom Movement in IIOJK, Experts Warn

Political analysts in Srinagar have raised alarm over India’s expanding settler-colonial agenda in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), accusing the BJP-led government of using systematic land seizures and property confiscations to suppress the Kashmiri people.

In interviews, experts claimed that the New Delhi-appointed Lieutenant Governor, under direct orders from Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, is implementing policies aimed at eroding Kashmiri resistance. These include widespread property confiscations, particularly targeting pro-freedom leaders and activists, under fabricated legal pretexts.

Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, these confiscations have intensified, with properties worth millions of rupees being seized. Experts described this as part of a broader punitive campaign designed to undermine Kashmiris’ resolve for self-determination. Speaking anonymously due to fear of reprisal, analysts highlighted that Indian forces routinely subject the region to violent cordon-and-search operations, raids, and arbitrary detentions.

The region remains one of the most militarized zones globally, with over a million troops deployed. Analysts emphasized that despite the oppressive tactics—including harassment, torture, and custodial killings—Kashmiris remain steadfast in their demand for freedom.

The experts called on the international community to recognize and act against India’s systematic human rights abuses in IIOJK, urging accountability for these oppressive measures and justice for the Kashmiri people.