Following the deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmiri politicians have strongly condemned the mass arrests and demolitions of homes across the Valley, calling it “collective punishment” against civilians.
Ruhullah Mehdi, Member of Parliament from Srinagar, said, “Kashmir and Kashmiris are being given a collective punishment.”
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti also voiced her concerns, saying, “There are reports of thousands being arrested and scores of houses of common Kashmiris being demolished along with those of militants. I appeal to the government to ensure that innocent people are not made to bear the brunt. Alienation only aids the terrorists’ goals of division and fear.”
Nasir Lone, a National Conference leader from Kupwara, warned, “Destroying homes of families will not avenge the wrongs committed by militants. It only deepens the wounds, punishing those who have already been left behind.”
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, forces have intensified operations across Jammu and Kashmir, demolishing several houses as part of what officials describe as efforts to “dismantle terror networks.”
On April 27, a triple-storey house belonging to active militant Jameel Ahmad Gojri in Naaz Colony, Bandipora, was demolished. Gojri has been missing and active in militancy since 2016, according to officials.
In the last 48 hours alone, the houses of at least five militants or their alleged associates were demolished.
Among those affected are Aadil Thoker and Asif Sheikh, whose houses were blown up during raids. Authorities claim Thoker has been identified as one of the attackers involved in the Pahalgam incident, while Sheikh’s role is still under investigation.
