The Jammu and Kashmir government has revealed that 83,742 domicile certificates have been issued to non-state subjects over the last two years, sparking renewed debate over demographic changes in the region.
This information was shared in a written response to a question raised by MLA Waheed Ur Rehman Para, according to the news agency Kashmir News Observer.
The government stated that a total of 35,12,184 domicile certificates have been issued across the Union Territory during the same period. Out of these, 83,742 were given to individuals from outside Jammu and Kashmir, said the Minister Incharge.
The question raised by Waheed Ur Rehman Para specifically asked for details on the number of non-local individuals who had been granted domicile status since the law was changed following the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019.
83,742 domicile certificates issued to non-state subjects in 2 years.
— Waheed Para (@parawahid) April 9, 2025
why isn't this being investigated? pic.twitter.com/H4TFBLFNRX
Speaking to the media, Para said, “The figures confirm what many in Jammu and Kashmir have feared — that the process of altering the region’s demography is well underway under the guise of administrative decisions.”
He added, “The people of J&K deserve transparency and accountability on such critical issues that directly impact their identity, culture, and political future.”
The issuance of domicile certificates to non-locals has been a controversial topic ever since the new domicile law was introduced in 2020, allowing outsiders to apply for residency in the region.
Critics argue that this is part of a broader plan to change the demographic makeup of Jammu and Kashmir, while the government maintains that the new laws are meant to provide rights and opportunities equally to all Indian citizens.
Read More: Over 2,000 Kanals of Land Given to Non-Locals for Investment: J&K Government
