Remembering the Day: How Kashmiris Recall the 5th of August 2019

August 5th, 2019, marked a significant turning point in the history of Kashmir that resonates across both India and the world. This date represents a pivotal moment, not just for the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir, but also for the personal lives of numerous Kashmiri individuals.

A Turning of the Tide

On the 5th of August 2019, the Indian government announced the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, which had provided special status to the erstwhile state of JK. This move, expected by many political factions and community leaders, came with a series of drastic changes for the region. It was a day of anxiety and uncertainty for Kashmiris and non-Kashmiris alike as the region braced for a new reality.

The Day It Changed

For individuals like myself, a day that was initially just another exam period turned into a personal odyssey filled with fear and confusion. Jammu, usually bustling with life, was abruptly brought to a standstill with strict lockdowns. The anticipation and the subsequent suspension of internet services added a layer of distress quite unparalleled.

Chaos and Commotion

The realization that the internet would be suspended not just in Kashmir but in other parts of Jammu and Ladakh came as a shock. The news channels broadcast the news and the world was watching. As Jammu was placed under a legitimate lockdown, my gut feeling of coming events proved to be correct. The fear of impending news about the region's safety was palpable.

The day started normally, but the second I switched on the television, reality hit me hard. The emotional turmoil was immense, and the news was nothing but a stark reality. The fear and desperation to call my family from Jammu, for the following two days, was indescribable. Travel, communication, and daily activities were halted, creating a surreal and distressing environment.

Returning to Family

The third day, my father managed to call me from a satellite phone in a police station. The call was brief but the relief it brought was immense. The journey back to Jammu and eventually to my family in the Kashmir valley was filled with uncertainties. The roads were deserted, and the experience of walking 4 kilometers while helpless was a stark reminder of the isolation and chaos.

Upon reaching home, the emotions were overwhelming. The anxiety and relief of seeing my parents after a long absence were palpable. The joy was tempered by the reality of the situation. The fear of safety in a region that had seen turmoil brought a heavy weight to my heart. The absence of festivity during the Eid celebrations echoed the cultural and social restrictions imposed.

Rebuilding Lives

The period that followed was marked by sporadic restoration of services. Landlines and internet services were gradually brought back, but the experience was torturous. The need to go to internet cafes in Jammu just to make a payment and the absence of quick communication channels further compounded the issue. The financial burden on families due to delayed activities and the cost of using internet cafes were significant.

By March, limited 2G internet was restored, providing some respite. However, the mental toll on Kashmiris remains immeasurable. The devastation caused by the abrogation of the Article 370 and the subsequent conflict has left an indelible mark on the region and its people.

As we remember that day, the message is clear: we cannot let history repeat itself. The struggles and sacrifices of the Kashmiri people must not be forgotten. May we never face such situations again and work towards building a better future where peace and understanding prevail.

Keyword: August 5th, 2019, Kashmir conflict, Abrogation of Article 370