J&K ground report: Fake campaign on mass protest busted; Kashmir's newspapers very much in circulation

A campaign to spread misinformation regarding the goings-on in Jammu and Kashmir has been ongoing on Twitter over the last few days since Article 370's abrogation, attempting to make it seem as though normalcy isn't the current scenario in the state. This couldn't be further from the truth, however.

Republic's ground reporting from Srinagar and other parts of the state has shown that there is no curfew in place, rather, vehicular and pedestrian traffic are clearly visible on the streets, while a number of other services, particularly ATMs and medical services are also up and running.

Newspapers not curtailed or affected

Pictures of newspapers being printed and actively circulated in J&K have emerged and it reveals that the newspapers have reported a wide range of news ranging from the scrapping of Article 370 to other countries' responses to the development. Amar Sinha, a member of the National Security Advisory, took to Twitter to post photos of the Kashmir newspapers actively covering the Article 370 issue. 

Read his tweet here:

Following are the pictures of the newspapers:

READ | Spooked Pakistan Approves Imran Khan's Measures Against India Following J&K's Article 370 Being Scrapped

Normalcy on Srinagar's Streets

Republic TV's ground reports from Jammu and Kashmir have shown that normalcy reigns on the streets of both Jammu and Srinagar. On Friday, state officials had confirmed that there was no curfew, that it was a Section 144 prohibitory order that had been imposed, and also, that it had been relaxed in order for the locals to be able to offer Friday prayers. Furthermore, they elaborated on the steps being taken to guarantee a smooth celebration of Eid on Monday, with food items and other essentials being supplied. In Jammu, Section 144 has been lifted, marketplaces and schools are now open. 

Home Ministry rubbishes fake news report

Scrapping of Article 370​

Article 370 and 35A had the combined effect of making Jammu and Kashmir a law onto itself, especially with regard to land-ownership and reservations. Removing the articles is likely to pave the way for easy investment into the state, and the government of India is already eyeing this, given that it has announced that a massive investment summit will be held in October this year. In his address to the nation, the Prime Minister spoke about how J&K had the potential to be the world's top tourist destination, but also made a pitch to a variety of industries.

Additionally, the CII on Friday committed to assisting the government on developing Jammu and Kashmir, while the Centre has also approved the setting up of an IIM Jammu - Srinagar off-centre campus. Additionally, Carnival Cinemas has said that it will set up 30 screens across J&K. 

READ | J&K's Article 370 Abrogated, Centre Approves IIM Jammu Off-campus In Srinagar, Allocates Rs 51.8 Crore