Security agencies in Kashmir have arrested more than 100 people, including political leaders and activists, describing them as a threat to peace in the Valley, officials said on Wednesday. The arrests took place amid a complete lockdown, with a strict curfew in force and all communication lines cut.

Who was arrested

A senior official in the state administration said over 100 political leaders and activists had been held so far, but did not name them.

Former chief ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, under house arrest since Sunday night, were formally arrested on Monday night on the grounds that they posed a threat to law and order. Sajjad Lone and Imran Ansari of the People’s Conference were arrested as well.

Officials said the detained leaders were being held at Hari Niwas, a short distance from their Gupkar residences. The arrest orders were issued by the magistrates concerned, citing activities seen as likely to disturb peace in the Valley.

Protests and casualties

Police reported sporadic protests in Srinagar and said one protester had died during the curfew after police gave chase. A police official, speaking anonymously, said the youth had jumped into the Jhelum River while being pursued. According to a source quoted by AFP, six or more people injured in protests, some by gunfire, were being treated in Srinagar hospitals.

Background

The detentions came during the same week that Parliament ended Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370, on 5-6 August 2019, and reorganised the state into two union territories.

See also: political leaders

Originally published on 7 August 2019. Rewritten on 9 October 2026.

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