LoC Remains Tense; J&K Parties Caution Against Demolition Drive

Srinagar, April 27, 2025 — Tensions continue to simmer along the Line of Control (LoC) as intermittent ceasefire violations, troop movements, and heightened alertness mark the fragile atmosphere between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, within Jammu and Kashmir, political parties are raising serious concerns over a sweeping demolition drive being carried out by the administration, warning that such measures could further alienate the already distressed population.

Fragile Peace at the LoC

Anxiety among border residents has been fueled by reports of cross-border firing and an increase in military presence over the past few weeks. Although the 2021 ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan had initially brought hope for lasting calm, the situation has visibly deteriorated in recent months.

Both sides have strengthened their positions, as confirmed by defense sources. Surveillance drones, night patrolling, and the deployment of additional troops have become a common sight along sensitive stretches of the border. Inhabitants of forward villages such as Uri, Tangdhar, and Poonch report being caught between fear and uncertainty, with many families contemplating relocation if hostilities escalate.

Military officials maintain that India is committed to maintaining the ceasefire but will respond strongly to any provocation. “Our troops are fully alert. Any misadventure will be met with a firm and appropriate response," said a senior army officer, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Demolition Drive Sparks Political Storm

The Jammu and Kashmir administration's ongoing demolition campaign has sparked fresh political outrage amid the tense border situation. The government claims the drive targets "illegal encroachments" on state and forest lands. However, opposition parties argue that the operation is being carried out without due process, often affecting marginalized and economically weaker sections.

Omar Abdullah, a former chief minister and vice president of the National Conference (NC), slammed the administration, claiming that the campaign aims to instill fear and insecurity in the populace. "There seems to be a deliberate attempt to provoke the population at a time when the situation remains delicate," he said during a press conference in Srinagar.

Mehbooba Mufti, president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), said something similar: "Bulldozing homes without proper verification or rehabilitation plans is not governance; it is a tactic of repression." In a sensitive region like Jammu and Kashmir, such measures only deepen alienation."

Several local residents have accused authorities of demolishing structures without prior notice or giving them an opportunity to present ownership documents. "For generations, we have lived here. "We are suddenly being told that we are encroachers," Ghulam Nabi, a Shopian resident whose house was recently demolished, stated. Demand a Humanitarian Strategy Civil society organizations, religious groups, and human rights activists have called for an immediate halt to the demolition drive, urging the administration to adopt a more humane and lawful approach. They argue that at a time when the region is still grappling with the aftermath of political and social upheaval following the abrogation of Article 370, administrative heavy-handedness could have long-lasting consequences.

"People need healing, not harassment," said Zubair Ahmad, a social activist based in Anantnag. "Demolitions carried out arbitrarily will only widen the trust deficit between the state and the citizens."

The Jammu and Kashmir High Court recently took suo motu cognizance of the issue, seeking a detailed report from the administration. Legal experts stress that even if structures are unauthorized, evictions and demolitions must adhere to principles of natural justice, including issuing notices, providing hearings, and offering alternative rehabilitation where necessary.

Centre’s Stance and the Way Forward

The Union government has so far backed the administration’s efforts, stating that reclaiming public land is essential for development projects and restoring order. However, political analysts warn that unilateral or unjust actions could easily escalate into larger unrest in a conflict-prone region like J&K. Political commentator Professor Aijaz Hussain from the University of Kashmir stated, "If governance actions are not accompanied by sensitivity and outreach, it risks undoing the fragile normalcy that has been achieved at great cost." As the twin challenges of border tension and internal discontent loom large, the need for a measured, inclusive, and empathetic approach has never been more pressing. Leaders across the political spectrum have urged both New Delhi and the local administration to focus on building trust, restoring civil liberties, and ensuring that the path to peace and prosperity does not come at the cost of justice and human dignity.

The coming weeks will be critical. Whether the government can balance security imperatives with the aspirations of the people will determine the future trajectory of Jammu and Kashmir — and perhaps the entire region.