Weeks after the chaos created by the abrogation of Article 370 from Jammu and Kashmir, life is slowly turning back to normal. On Tuesday, the authorities further eased the restrictions by lifting barricades. The movement of people was allowed and an increase in traffic in the commercial hubs was observed after relaxation in restrictions, while several other localities are still under the limitations.
Life restoring normalcy in Jammu And Kashmir
Officials said that the restrictions were eased in 136 police stations areas out of 197 in Jammu and Kashmir. They added that the situation is peaceful and completely under control. No suspicious activities were observed in the Kashmir valley, including several other parts of Srinagar. These improvements in the condition made them remove barricades and allow movement of people.
The schools and many other government offices were ordered to reopen by the government. The attendance of teachers and students in schools and employees in government offices is also improving though most of the students are still not attending the school due to the unfavorable prevailing situation.
The officials further told that landline telephone services have been restored at most of the places but internet and mobile services remain suspended for the 18th consecutive day. Even landline telephone services remain suspended in several areas including Srinagar’s commercial hub of Lal Chowk and Press Enclave.
Briefing about the situation, the government spokesperson, Rohit Kansal said, “We will try to restore 100% landline connectivity.” He said, though restrictions have been lifted in several places, the deployment of security forces has continued to maintain law and order. A lot of vehicles and some inter-district cabs plied between districts and in the valley, but the markets were still shut since August 5.
Though there is no strike by any separatist group or any other organization still shops and other businesses remained shut. A local shopkeeper said, “We didn’t open the main door, fearing the situation. We have been operating via the back door to facilitate people in this emergency.”
Earlier, there were clashes between groups of youth and security forces in many parts of the Valley. As per the reports issued by the authorities, the areas in tension are now peaceful with few injuries. The spokesperson denied disclosing the number of people detained by authorities since restrictions imposed on August 5.
Talking about the basic necessities, Kansal said, there is enough stock of essential commodities. He requested people not to panic while visiting markets and buying things.
Tensions intensified between India and Pakistan
Meanwhile, scrapping of Article 370 has intensified tensions between India and Pakistan. India considered it to an internal matter while Pakistan took the matter to the United Nations. On this matter, for the first time in 54 years, the United Nations Security Council decided to meet behind doors. Relations between India and Pakistan remain intense despite getting calls from the international community to resolve the matter peacefully.
On monitoring the situation closely and expressing concern about the people of Jammu and Kashmir, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged India and Pakistan to refrain from any steps that could destabilize the conditions.