Night-Time Jet Sounds Stir Panic in Kashmir Ahead Of Article 370 Abrogation Anniversary

As the sixth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 nears, unease has gripped residents of Jammu and Kashmir, with many in Srinagar claiming they heard jets hovering overhead late Monday night. The reported low-flying aircraft have sparked speculation and concern, as heightened security measures are already in place across the region.

Locals took to social media late on August 4, sharing text of what they described as "unusually loud" jet sounds around night. Some claimed the aircraft circled repeatedly over parts of Srinigar.

The timing of the jets' presence has fueled anxiety, as August 5 marks a deeply sensitive date for many in the region. On this day in 2019, Article 370-which had granted special status to the erstwhile state-was revoked by the Union government, bifurcating it into two Union Territories.

Adding to the tension, political activity is already high. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah of the National Conference (NC) maintained a cautiously optimistic stance. "Let me stick my neck out and say nothing will happen tomorrow-fortunately, nothing bad will happen, but unfortunately, nothing positive will happen either," he said.

Meanwhile, the Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Mehbooba Mufti observed a 15-minute blackout as a form of symbolic protest. "Let the silence speak. Let the darkness remind the world of what was lost," Mufti said, urging Kashmiris to turn off their lights in remembrance.

Security across the Valley has been intensified. Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat chaired a high-level review meeting on Monday, with officials from intelligence and law enforcement discussing strategies to ensure a "peaceful conduct of events."

"The DGP directed enhanced surveillance, area domination, and close monitoring of social media to curb misinformation," a police spokesperson said. He also instructed district heads to secure vulnerable locations and intensify counterinsurgency efforts.

As speculation swirls that the Union government may announce fresh measures for the region, Srinagar remains on edge. While no official confirmation has been made regarding the jets, their presence in the sky has added a layer of unease to an already emotionally charged atmosphere.