On August 5, 2019, the BJP-led central government made a historic decision to abrogate Article 370, which had granted special constitutional status to Jammu and Kashmir. As part of this move, the state was divided into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
The government stated that Article 370 had fueled separatism, hindered development, and discriminated against women and certain groups. Now, six years later, Jammu and Kashmir has experienced both progress and challenges in security, politics, and the economy.
Security
The most notable change has been in security. Terror-related violence has sharply declined. For instance, in 2025, only 28 militants were killed, down from 67 in 2024. Local terrorist recruitment reduced from 129 in 2019 to just 1 in 2025. Incidents of stone-pelting, bandhs (shutdowns), and targeted killings of political workers, police, and migrant labourers have mostly ceased. However, human rights issues, such as allegations of custodial killings in Rajouri and Poonch, have raised concerns.
The most significant setback occurred in April 2025 when a terrorist attack in Pahalgam killed 26 people, mostly tourists. In response, the government launched Operation Sindoor to target militant hideouts. The three Pakistani militants responsible for the attack were killed in July.
Politics
After eight years of central rule, elections were finally held in September 2024 following a Supreme Court order. The National Conference, led by Omar Abdullah, emerged as the largest party. This was a setback for the BJP, which had hoped to gain power in the Muslim-majority region.
Even with an elected government in place, real power remains with the Lieutenant Governor. Departments such as the police and civil services are still under the LG's control. Omar Abdullah has acknowledged that his government has limited authority. Until statehood is restored, the public remains frustrated and feels powerless.
Economy
The government claims it has received investment proposals worth over Rs 1 lakh crore under the 2021 Industrial Scheme. Major projects include:
- A Medi-City with medical colleges and hospitals in Pulwama
- A steel plant by JSW in Lassipora
- A massive Mall of Srinagar by the Dubai-based EMAAR and Lulu Group, which will span 1 million square feet and create 1,500 local jobs
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Despite these promising figures, unemployment remains a significant issue, and the anticipated job creation has not met expectations. Sectors like horticulture, tourism, and handicrafts continue to employ thousands.
Tourism
Tourism has surged due to improved security. Since 2023, 2.11 crore tourists have visited the region, although this figure includes many pilgrims to Vaishno Devi, who were not previously counted as tourists.
The Pahalgam attack dented tourist confidence, but efforts by local tour operators and the government have helped restore some trust. Kashmir remains a favoured destination, though safety continues to be a concern.
Ground Reality
Despite some progress in security, infrastructure, and governance, many people, especially in the Kashmir Valley, feel disempowered and discriminated against. This sentiment is fueled by a zero-tolerance policy for dissent, rising unemployment, an indifferent bureaucracy dominated by non-locals, and limited authority for elected leaders.
Even though the region appears more integrated on paper, many believe true peace and prosperity remain elusive.
What’s Next?
Coinciding with the sixth anniversary of the abrogation, the Supreme Court has announced it will hear a plea for the restoration of statehood on August 8, 2025. The petitioners argue that maintaining Jammu & Kashmir as a Union Territory undermines citizens' rights.
Meanwhile, anxieties are on the rise. Rumours suggest that the Centre may grant statehood to Jammu—including parts of South Kashmir—while retaining the Valley as a Union Territory. This speculation intensified after the Home Ministry approved the deployment of 20,000 paramilitary forces, echoing actions taken just before the Article 370 decision in 2019.
