The All India Students' Association (AISA) has condemned the detention of over 3,500 people across several districts of Jammu and Kashmir following the killing of a police constable and the subsequent security crackdown.
In a statement issued on August 2, AISA said that people have been detained from districts including Srinagar, Anantnag, Shopian and Baramulla, with many being picked up for questioning as suspected "Over Ground Workers" (OGWs). The organisation said that such large-scale detentions reflect a pattern of repression and violate the constitutional rights of the people of Kashmir.
AISA pointed out that the crackdown comes soon after Kashmiri activists Khurram Parvez and Irfan Mehraj were released on bail in July 2026 after spending several years in custody under anti-terror laws. Parvez was arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2021, while Mehraj was arrested in 2023. The Delhi High Court refused to suspend the release order after the NIA challenged the bail decision. The organisation criticised the use of the term "Over Ground Worker", stating that the classification is broadly applied and has become a tool for repression. AISA said that people labelled as OGWs often face prolonged questioning, restrictions on movement and prosecution under anti-terror laws even before a case is established in court.
AISA also raised concerns over the demolition of houses belonging to people accused of militant activities, stating that such actions violate principles of due process and punish families who have not been charged with any offence. Such actions undermine constitutional guarantees and democratic rights.
AISA condemned the detention of more than 3,500 people and demanded that the government uphold constitutional rights, ensure due process and stop the use of repressive measures against the people of Kashmir.
