Following the death of separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Kashmir experienced a shutdown with heavy police and paramilitary presence, reminiscent of the situation after the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Authorities imposed restrictions, including cutting mobile phone and internet services, except for state-run BSNL. Markets closed, and movement was restricted, with locals fearing further deterioration of the situation. Geelani's funeral was conducted under tight security, with some family members claiming they were barred from attending. Pro-India leaders expressed condolences, while local Kashmiris expressed frustration over the impact of the restrictions on daily life and online education.

Investigations into over 10,500 allegations of human rights violations by security forces in Kashmir have been halted following the abolition of the Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) after the abrogation of Article 370. The SHRC was actively hearing cases and had recommended actions against police and army officials in some instances. Human rights activist Mohammad Ehsan Untoo highlighted the SHRC's role in providing relief and holding officials accountable. With the SHRC's dissolution, there is no local forum for addressing new cases, and the government has not prioritized setting up a new commission or transferring cases to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The law department is awaiting government directions on the pending cases, while former SHRC members and activists express concerns over the lack of access to justice for complainants.

Jammu and Kashmir authorities have implemented strict guidelines to combat the spread of the novel coronavirus, including the demarcation of 90 red zones that are under complete lockdown. The guidelines include stamping of coronavirus patients, sealing high case zones, and creating separate teams for contact tracing. The lockdown has led to complaints of police excesses and a lack of clarity on emergency movement permissions. Routine healthcare services have been suspended, and there are reports of inadequate arrangements for essential commodity delivery to locals. Despite these challenges, authorities aim to prevent the spread of the virus through these measures and plan to conduct large-scale testing in affected areas.

Tensions along the Line of Control in Kashmir have escalated with increased gunfire exchanges between Pakistani and Indian troops. The Indian Army has conducted numerous operations to counter infiltration attempts, particularly in the Gulmarg, Gurez, and Kupwara areas. Two Lashkar-e-Toiba militants were apprehended, revealing Pakistani army involvement in the infiltration efforts. Despite heightened security, militant activities have continued, and there is concern over potential large-scale attacks. Communication disruptions have affected anti-militancy operations, and several politicians, including former chief ministers, are detained amidst ongoing unrest.

Following the revocation of Article 370 in Kashmir, several political leaders have been detained, causing distress among their families who struggle to meet them. Family members of leaders from the People’s Conference and National Conference have faced procedural hurdles and limited visitation. The government has stated that detentions are preventive, but no specific charges have been mentioned. The families and leaders view the detentions as arbitrary and a betrayal by the Government of India.

The Lok Sabha election in Jammu and Kashmir is characterized by a division between the BJP and an alliance of the National Conference, Congress, and PDP. The central issue is the retention of Article 370 and 35A, which grant special status to the region. The BJP aims to abrogate these articles, while the alliance seeks to protect them. The election rhetoric has communal overtones, with parties also addressing the restoration of the state's autonomy and self-rule. The Congress and PDP have formed a 'secular' alliance in Jammu to avoid dividing Muslim votes, while the BJP is accused of strengthening separatist forces by attempting to revoke Article 370. Political commentators and party leaders express varied views on the implications of these articles and the state's constitutional position.