This report is a narrative of the situation that arose in Kashmir valley, after the events of August 5th 2019. The report sheds light on the impact of the abrogation of Article 370 in the Indian Administered State of Jammu of Kashmir. The report highlights the political history of the state of Jammu and Kashmir and outlines its accession to the Union of India. Further, it looks into the history of Article 370 and its incorporation into the Indian Constitution. It also makes a detailed study into its constant erosion by the Indian State, from time to time.

Post abrogation of Article 370 by the Indian Parliament, the State of Jammu and Kashmir has been in a state of siege and lockdown; the lockdown has egregiously affected the daily lives of the people living in the valley. Since the lockdown, there is a clampdown on the communication and internet services have been barred since 4 months now, with no respite in sight1. The lockdown has directly impacted all facets of life, including access to the health services, education access to justice and business and employment. Schools have been closed for 4 months now, yet board exams have been held in these difficult circumstances. The health sector has taken a massive hit and has been over burdened with the lack of professionals and essential medical supplies. The Jama Masjid, the biggest congressional mosque in Srinagar, has been off limits for prayers 17 weeks in a row now. The courts and other judicial mechanisms operating in the Valley are largely inaccessible to the common Kashmiri, thereby denying them access to justice. This report presents a detailed picture of life under lockdown in the Kashmir valley.