One of the lesser known facts about my background is that my mother is from Kashmir. Unsuprisingly, this is something my close friends know, and sometimes they even confuse themselves with trying to understand my origins. A place I have only heard of from my mother and grandmother, I always hoped to go to Kashmir one day. They told me of gushing fresh water and the green valley, of the Himalayas and the food. Their stories fueled my image of Kashmir. Kashmir is not a place mentioned often in the media, and, unfortunately, the recent atrocities happening in Kashmir became the reason for media coverage.

Currently, Kashmir is in lockdown (and India tightened lockdown today as reported by Al Jazeera). Lockdown has persisted since protests begain August fifth after India revoked Article 370. This article granted Kashmir special rights to the Muslim-majority state. Under Article 370, Kashmir has the right to its own constitution and autonomy to make laws on all matters except defence, communications and foreign affairs. Moreover, Kashmir could decide rules regarding permanent residency, ownership of property and fundamental rights. It could also bar Indians from outside the state from purchasing property or settling there.Now, Kashmir has been demoted to a state, therefore, India has more power in governing Kashmir.

Naturally, Kashmiris have protested this change, but India is doing everything in its power to suppress Kashmiri citizens. Communications, from phone calls and internet to the post office were all suspended. It is an attempt to prevent what was happening in Kashmir reach the outside as well as retain a tight grip on the population. Families and friends struggled to contact each other. Stifling Kashmiri media outlets presents a one sided view of the happenings in Kashmir. Furthermore, reporters are harassed and threatened if they report anything that goes against the Indian government.

The lockdown not only stifles Kashmiri reporters and Kashmiris, but stunts the livelihood of the people. Tourism is Kashmir's main industry, and without tourists (they were ordered to evacuate before the military arrived), the economy is frozen. Known for its beautiful lakes and snowcapped mountains, Kashmir thrived on tourists vacationing throughout the year.

In addition to imposing a severe lockdown, graphic images of protestors being beat by Indian soldiers, shot with rubber pellets, and shelled with tear gas. Women and children are injured and as a result of the lockdown, hospitals are running out of supplies for patients. People are running out of food. India's response to protesters and lockdown violate many human rights codes.

Aside from the violence and the fury of Kashmiris, India says the revoaction of Article 370 was done in order to further integrate Kashmir into India and promote development in the region. However, Kashmir was not consulted in the matter or given a voice in the decision. Kashmiri's are being forced to give up their land because those outside Kashmir can now buy land and own property.

The intent to "integrate" Kashmir is one that is unjust and illegal. The decision to revoke Article 370 without including the voice of the people living in the region about integration or even independence, is unacceptable. Enforcing a lockdown does not promote acceptance or integration, it is oppression and a forceful attempt to maintain control of Kashmir. In the face of such injustices, Kashmir will not quietly settle.