India: Foreign diplomats visit Jammu and Kashmir February 12-13

Event

On Wednesday, February 12, a delegation of 25 foreign envoys began touring northern Kashmir and Srinagar to observe the easing of travel and communications restrictions implemented by India in August 2019. On Thursday, February 13, the delegation will travel to Jammu to meet with the Lieutenant Governor and civil society groups.

A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are expected in the vicinity of all sites visited by the delegation.

Context

Following a cabinet meeting on August 5, Indian Home Minister Amit Shah proposed to parliament that Article 370 in the Constitution, which accords Jammu and Kashmir state a special autonomous status, be revoked. He also proposed that Jammu and Kashmir be reorganized as a Union Territory with an assembly, and Ladakh be a separate Union Territory with no legislature.

After New Delhi rescinded the state's effective constitutional autonomy, a curfew was imposed in Jammu and Kashmir state on August 5, along with a blockage of landline and internet services in many areas. Kashmir-solidarity demonstrations and protests against India's proposed revocation of the state's special autonomous status have taken place regularly across Pakistan following the announcement.

Advice

Individuals in Jammu and Kashmir state are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably including areas along the Line of Control (LoC), due to the significant risk of violence.