How youngsters from other parts of the country see the happenings in J&K

ETV Bharat interacted with few youngsters from other parts of the country who had participated at the Independence Day celebrations observed at Sher-e-Kashmir stadium to know about their experiences on the ground.

Jammu: The recent Independence Day celebrations observed at Sher-e-Kashmir stadium witnessed the participation of youngsters from across the country.

The entire event garnered importance as it was the first Independence Day, observed in Jammu and Kashmir, after the modification of its special status. ETV Bharat interacted with few youngsters to know about their experiences and the ground-level situation. One of the participants Pragya, hailing from Patna of Bihar, remarked that the local residents were hardly seen in the valley and several localities looked deserted."While there was no presence of locals, Indian media was present in large numbers. We were strictly advised not to roam anywhere owing to the security concerns," she added.

Outlining the reactions of the residents, Pragya maintained that majority of the Kashmiris were unhappy with the centre's decision. Some of them even opined that their leaders must have been included in the decision before taking such a big step. She further called upon the media organisations to present the truth without manipulation or for the sake of popularity.

"I had interacted with some of the people and they were also of the opinion that their statements were edited and the truth is not completely shown to the rest of the country. Only a happy picture of Kashmir is being presented and there are some serious issues which are ignored by the media after the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir," she maintained.

Priya, another participant hailing from Kathua, said that the atmosphere was very peaceful in the valley, as soldiers were present in every nook and corner. "We did not find any Kashmiris in the ceremony, as they were not allowed to come out and neither they were interested. Locals were caged in their own home, without internet and mobile services. I feel that mainstream media is concealing the facts and presenting a sensational side to every story. Media's portrayal of Kashmir is very dramatic as if there is always a war-like situation, but they fail to present a positive aspect," she opined. Meanwhile, Chitra, a Rajasthan-based participant, asserted that the real situation would be evident only when the Army leaves the valley. "Kashmiri students performed at the event to celebrate Independence Day, which I think is a positive sign."

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