'Fears of demographic change in Kashmir are real': Waheed Parra

Published on April 15, 2025. In this exclusive interview with Frontline, Waheed Parra—youth leader and legislator from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)—raises urgent concerns over the changing demographics of Jammu and Kashmir. Citing government data, Parra reveals that over 83,000 domicile certificates have been granted to non-locals in just two years, triggering deep anxiety about identity, land, and faith among Kashmiris. From the Waqf (Amendment) Act 2025 to alleged land exploitation under the guise of development, Parra provides a pointed critique of the current administration and challenges the silence of mainstream parties, especially the National Conference. This hard-hitting conversation spotlights the post-Article 370 realities and their long-term implications on the Kashmiri identity. Context: Since the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A in August 2019, Kashmir has witnessed major legal and political shifts. The fear of demographic change—once dismissed as alarmist—is now surfacing in official figures. Waheed Parra, speaking from the legislative floor and the grassroots, argues that Kashmiris are being systematically disempowered through administrative decisions, selective inaction, and the weakening of political forums. Highlights: • 83,742 domicile certificates granted to non-locals—what the numbers reveal • Demographic anxiety and the erasure of Kashmiri identity • The politics of silence: Waheed Parra's critique of Omar Abdullah and the NC • The Waqf Act 2025 and its implications for religious autonomy • Environmental degradation and unchecked mining in the name of development Perfect for: • Viewers seeking a ground-level understanding of post-370 Kashmir • Scholars, journalists, and researchers following South Asian politics • Policy experts focused on federalism, identity, and minority rights • Anyone concerned with democracy, representation, and regional autonomy Credits: Interview by Gowhar Geelani Camera by Emm Xi Editing by Razal Pareed Subscribe to Frontline: https://frontline.thehindu.com/online... Follow us on: Facebook - / frontlineindia Twitter - / frontline_india Instagram - / frontline.magazine LinkedIn - / frontline-magazine-b12921295