Table of Contents
THE CONTEXT: Prime Minister visited the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir after the 2019 constitutional changes aimed to showcase developmental progress and central schemes’ achievements. Meanwhile, opposition and regional parties criticized the visit and the portrayal of these changes as achievements, highlighting the absence of political engagement and the restoration of rights.
ISSUES:
- Bifurcation and Removal of Special Status: The erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories and stripped of its special constitutional status in 2019, which has led to various political and social ramifications.
- Development vs. Political Rights: While the government focuses on developmental achievements and economic opportunities in J&K, critics argue that restoring political and democratic rights, which have been curtailed since 2019, is crucial for the region’s stability and integration.
- Criticism from Regional Parties: Regional parties like the National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) express disappointment with the government’s narrative, particularly regarding the treatment of Article 370, arguing that it adds insult to the injuries of the natives.
- Call for Statehood and Elections: There is a push for restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood and conducting assembly elections to address political grievances and initiate a broader political process in the region.
- Challenges Beyond Development: While developmental initiatives are highlighted, the region continues to face challenges, including militancy and detentions, underscoring the situation’s complexity beyond economic measures.
- Public Opinion in the Valley: It is indicated that while the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) may use its Kashmir policy to influence its support base, there remains a crucial need to consider and address the public opinion within Jammu and Kashmir itself for lasting peace and integration.
THE WAY FORWARD:
- Conducting Assembly Elections: Holding free, fair, and transparent elections envisioned by the Supreme Court for the state assembly could empower locals, ensuring their representation and participation in the democratic process.
- Boosting Local Economy through Investment: Encouraging investment in critical sectors like tourism, agriculture, handloom, and handicrafts to generate employment and boost the economy.
- Infrastructure Development: Focusing on developing critical infrastructure such as roads, healthcare, and education facilities to improve the quality of life and economic prospects.
- Cultural Preservation and Promotion: Promoting and preserving the rich cultural heritage of J&K, ensuring that development and modernization do not come at the cost of cultural identity.
- Countering Militancy with Intelligence: Strengthening intelligence operations to prevent militancy and ensure the safety of civilians and security forces.
- Community Policing and Engagement: Implementing community policing initiatives to build trust between security forces and the local population, facilitating better cooperation in maintaining peace.
- Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs: Creating programs for the rehabilitation and reintegration of youth involved in militancy, providing alternatives, and preventing recidivism.
THE CONCLUSION:
The complex issues in Jammu and Kashmir require a balanced approach prioritizing development and political restoration. Foundational steps like building trust, restoring statehood, and conducting fair elections can address challenges and integrate the region with India.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1) To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision concerning the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. (2016)
Q.2) The banning of ‘Jamaat-e – islaami’ in Jammu and Kashmir brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organizations. Examine the role played by OGWs in helping terrorist organizations in insurgency-affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralize the influence of OGWs. (2019)
Q.3) Winning ‘Hearts and Minds’ in terrorism-affected areas is essential in restoring the population’s trust. Discuss the measures adopted by the Government in this respect as part of the conflict resolution in Jammu and Kashmir. (2023)
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1) Examine the impacts of the bifurcation and removal of special status on Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, focusing on the socio-political and economic dimensions. Critically analyze the measures taken by the government to address these challenges and suggest a way forward for the holistic development and integration of the region with the rest of India.
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