A Harsh Reality of Land Grabbing and Forced Evictions in IIOJK

The beautiful valley of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has long been remained the place of grave human rights violations. And now the current government of PM Modi has further resorted to demographic manipulation and systematic displacement. The Indian security forces have been engaged in extensive land-grabbing operations, forcibly evicting the local population in the name of security and strategic significance, with the support of legislative changes.

The Use of Land as a Weapon of Control

The Indian Army has intensified its land acquisition activities in recent years, earmarking extensive areas of land in IIOJK as “strategic.” In the last two years, this earmarking has served as a pretext for the demolition of 50 Muslim homes and the displacement of more than 200 families. Such evictions not only violate the cultural and social fabric of the region but also disrupt livelihoods. Currently the Indian security forces occupy 53,353 hectares of land, a figure that underscores the extent of their encroachment. As a result of the extensive amendments to the IIOJK Development Act, the Indian security forces now has the legal authority to claim any land deemed essential for security purposes, sidestepping local opposition.

The “Land for Landless” Scheme

The Modi government’s “land for landless” initiative is the quintessence of a deliberate demographic engineering strategy. Approximately 9,000 individuals, primarily Hindus, have been allocated land sites under this initiative. The displaced Kashmiri Muslims are left without compensation or alternative accommodation, while non-local populations have disproportionately benefited from this initiative. Following its broader Hindutva agenda, the Modi led regime is altering the demographics of IIOJK to dilute Muslim majority by promoting the settlement of non-Kashmiris.

Exploiting IIOJK’s Resources

The extent of land grabs in IIOJK is truly astonishing. The Indian army and paramilitary forces have confiscated millions of acres of agricultural and forest land. It is worth noting that the Modi government has allocated 20,000 Kanals (2,500 acres) of land to Hindu investors and more than 200,000 acres to foreign investors. This obvious favoritism not only marginalizes the local population but also prioritizes the welfare of Kashmiri residents over external economic interests. Furthermore, the military’s control over civilian spaces has been further reinforced by the reservation of 129 Kanals of land in Baramulla for security forces.

Enforcing Israeli Model in IIOJK

The Israeli paradigm of occupation and settlement is reflected in the actions of the Indian Army in IIOJK. Army Welfare Housing Organization (AWHO) plans to construct a housing colony in central Jammu for serving and retired army personnel are reminiscent of illicit settlements in the West Bank. The objective of these colonies is to assimilate non-Kashmiris, thereby diminishing the unique Kashmiri Muslim identity and transforming the region into a military garrison. The construction of 336 apartments for non-Kashmiris is a prime example of the intention to facilitate the settlement of outsiders, thereby further disempowering the local population.

Political and Cultural Erosion

The political landscape of the region has been considerably altered by the Modi government’s implementation of policies that grant electoral rights to non-locals. The electoral rolls have been supplemented by more than 93,000 new non-local electors, the majority of whom are non-Muslims. This political balance is being shifted strategically by the BJP is aimed at providing individuals, residing in Jammu for mere a year the right to register as voters. These actions dilute the rich cultural heritage and undermine the autonomy of Kashmiri voices.

The Abrogation of Article 370

PM Modi led regime during 2019, unilaterally revoked Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, thereby depriving Jammu and Kashmir of its unique status. This action, which is considered unconstitutional under the UN mandate, has facilitated the implementation of comprehensive legislative reforms that enable land grabs and demographic manipulation. By revoking the region’s autonomy, the Modi regime has openly disregarded international norms and the rights of the Kashmiri people, thereby exacerbating their marginalization.

Hindutva Ideology: A Cultural Assault

The Indian government’s actions are a direct assault on the cultural and religious identity of Kashmiris, in addition to physical displacement. The pursuance of false narratives is indicative of the propagation of a Hindutva ideology that is aimed at finishing the unique Kashmiri Muslim cultural identity. This demographic imposition is not merely a cultural violation but it is a deliberate attempt to erode the social cohesion and legacy of the region.

International Condemnation

India’s actions in IIOJK have been repeatedly condemned by the international community, which includes organizations such as the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and Amnesty International. The grievous human rights violations, which include forced evictions, demographic engineering and the suppression of dissent, have been criticized by these bodies but continued disregard of India for its obligations under international law is due to the absence of tangible repercussions.

Disruption of Livelihoods and Sustenance

The local livelihoods in IIOJK have been devastated by land acquisition operations. Forest-dependent communities are facing economic devastation and displacement, whereas farmers have been denied access to agricultural property. The eviction of families and the devastation of homes not only deprive individuals of their sustenance but also perpetuate cycles of poverty and instability. The Indian government demonstrated a clear disregard for human rights and social justice by preferring military and commercial interests over the welfare of Kashmiris.

Resistance and Responsibility

The situation in IIOJK serves as a stark reminder of the perils of unbridled militarization and settler colonialism. In the face of adversity, the resilience of Kashmiri people underscores their commitment to the preservation of their identity and liberties. Nevertheless, brutal demographic change necessitates a concerted international effort to compel India to comply with its legal and moral obligations. The liberties of Kashmiri people must be restored and the Indian government shall be held accountable by the global community for her brutalities committed against Muslim brethren in IIOJK.

Conclusion

The involvement of Indian security forces in land-grabbing and forced evictions in IIOJK reflects a well-planned strategy to suppress Muslims, alter demographics and erode the cultural identity of the region. Policies of Modi led regime have facilitated these actions, which are a manifest violation of international norms and human rights. In addition to provision of justice, the Kashmiri people are entitled to self-determination, which is devoid of external interference and oppression. Kashmir’s fundamental rights must be restored and the global community must stand in solidarity with them, advocating for peace and equity.