Militancy resurges as Jammu and Kashmir faces a wave of terrorist attacks

In the Indian-administered territory of Jammu and Kashmir, there has been a disturbing uptick in terrorist violence in recent months. Specifically, at least 11 shoppers were injured in a grenade attack at a flea market in Srinagar on November 3, 2024. This incident resulted in the death of one woman from her injuries. So far this year, terrorist attacks in Jammu, the territory's predominantly Hindu region, have led to the deaths of at least 44 individuals, including 18 members of the security forces. This alarming trend marks a resurgence of extremist violence, which had previously diminished in the region despite significant political changes. The background of these events points to the complex web of regional politics and security issues. The Indian national government's revocation of Kashmir's special autonomous status back in August 2019 has been a focal point of discontent among the local population, particularly among Muslim communities. While there has been some momentary calm, the recent rise in violence raises questions about the effectiveness of this political change and the reality on the ground for ordinary residents of the territory. One explanation offered by Indian security officials suggests that there has been a ramping up of support for terrorist activities from Pakistan. The Pakistani security establishment, historically opposed to Indian governance in any part of Kashmir, may be taking advantage of the political transition in Jammu and Kashmir. With an elected state-level government now in place, there are concerns that the destabilization of the region could be a tactic utilized by Pakistan to incite further discord. Additionally, it is pertinent to note that the Indian government has shifted a significant number of soldiers from Kashmir Valley to focus on border tensions with China. This redeployment may have created a vulnerability in a region that has long been seen as rife with terrorist activities. As the newly elected Kashmiri government assumes office, expectations are high among citizens; yet, it is becoming clear that any illusions that the revocation of Article 370 could serve as a permanent solution to the region's turmoil may need a reevaluation, lest the situation deteriorate further.