We, at the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), have published various research papers on J&K focusing on radicalisation, cross-border terrorism, governance, perception management, and emerging threats in the hybrid domain. We have also conducted various round-table discussions and national seminars with an endeavour to understand the complexities of the situation and devise pragmatic strategies for the resolution of the conflict. To provide balanced and objective literature on the situation in Kashmir post abrogation of Article 370, a team of two research scholars from CLAWS carried out an on-field study tour in various northern, central, and southern districts of Kashmir between 04 and 13 September 2020.
Objective and Methodology:
According to the available statistical data for the period post-abrogation of Article 370, the security situation in the Valley has slightly improved with a drop in terror recruitment, the sharp decline in terror-related incidents and the number of people killed by the terrorists. However, relying only on such statistical indicators will lead to management and not the resolution of the problems in Kashmir. To achieve peace and development as promised during the abrogation of Article 370, it is essential that the non-quantifiable parameters be also well-studied. A team of researchers from the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS) undertook an on-ground study in the Kashmir Valley with an aim to provide an objective assessment and unbiased view of the situation as it exists on the ground, with a primary focus on the non-quantifiable parameters of security and related activities. This includes an analysis of various intangible factors that are not measurable or statistically demonstrable. Authors interacted with the youth, middle and old-aged group, school teachers and principals, women, ex-terrorists (Ikhwans)/surrendered terrorists, villagers of forwarding areas, and the Army and the Paramilitary officers. Areas covered in the study include –
• North Kashmir- Tangdhar, Tithwal, Simari, Lolab, Sopore.
• Central Kashmir- Srinagar, Budgam (Beerwah Town), Sharifabad, Pattan.
• South Kashmir- Wuzur, Pulwama, Awantipora.
In the end, the report provides certain constructive policy recommendations for consideration of the policymakers and multiple stakeholders.
