Mains Daily Question
Aug. 3, 2023
Despite the positive changes, several challenges continue to persist in the Kashmir Valley even after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss
Approach
Introduction: Briefly introduce the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian constitution
Body: Discuss the positive outcomes and challenges that persist and also suggest some way forward.
Conclusion: Conclude in a holistic way
Answer:
The abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution on August 5, 2019, removed special autonomous status granted to Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to integrate the region with the rest of India to ensure law and order and peace in the region.
Positive changes since the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian constitution:
- Increased security and stability: Decrease in violence and terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The number of terrorist-related incidents has decreased by over 70% since 2019. This has created a more secure and stable environment for the people of Jammu and Kashmir, which has allowed for economic development and social progress.
- Improved connectivity: The central government has made significant investments in improving the connectivity of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. New roads, tunnels, and bridges have been built, and the internet and mobile phone connectivity have been greatly improved. This has made it easier for people to travel, communicate, and do business in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Increased investment: Increase in investment in Jammu and Kashmir. The central government has announced a number of incentives for businesses to invest in the region, and many companies have already taken advantage of these opportunities. This investment is helping to create jobs and boost the economy of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Increased participation in sports: The abrogation of Article 370 has led to an increase in participation in sports in Jammu and Kashmir. The central government has supported the development of sports infrastructure in the region, and many young people are now taking part in sports activities. This is helping to keep young people engaged and healthy, and it is also providing them with opportunities to represent India at the international level.
- Increased tourism: The abrogation of Article 370 has led to an increase in tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is home to some of the most beautiful and scenic places in India, and the central government is promoting tourism in the region. This is helping to boost the economy of Jammu and Kashmir and create jobs.
- Improved governance: The central government has taken a number of steps to improve governance in Jammu and Kashmir. These include strengthening the police force, cracking down on corruption, and improving the delivery of government services. This is helping to create a more transparent and accountable government in Jammu and Kashmir.
Several challenges continue to persist:
- Security Concerns: One of the most significant challenges in the Kashmir Valley is persistent security threats. Despite efforts by the Indian government to tackle insurgency and terrorism, sporadic incidents of violence and militancy continue to disrupt peace and stability in the region. The security forces have to remain vigilant to counter these threats, which often lead to human rights concerns and civilian casualties.
- Internet Connectivity and Communication: Frequent internet shutdowns and restrictions on communication have hindered access to information, education, and economic opportunities for the people in the region. This has further exacerbated the sense of isolation and hindered overall progress.
- Socio-Political Integration: The abrogation of Article 370 was aimed at fostering greater integration of Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of India. However, the process of integrating the region socio-politically is still ongoing, and it requires a delicate balance between respecting the unique cultural identity of the region and promoting national integration.
- Cross-Border Tensions: The Kashmir issue has historical and geopolitical implications that involve neighbouring Pakistan. Cross-border tensions and incidents of cross-border terrorism continue to add complexity to the situation, often derailing peace efforts and dialogues.
- Political uncertainty: The abrogation of Article 370 has led to a great deal of political uncertainty in Jammu and Kashmir. The region has been under Governor's rule since 2019, and there is no clear timeline for when elections will be held. This uncertainty is making it difficult for businesses to invest in the region and for people to plan for the future.
- Sectarian tensions: The abrogation of Article 370 has also led to an increase in sectarian tensions in Jammu and Kashmir. The region is home to a majority Muslim population and a minority Hindu population, and there have been a number of incidents of violence between the two communities. These tensions are making it difficult to maintain peace and security in the region.
- Human rights abuses: There have been a number of reports of human rights abuses in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. These include arbitrary arrests, torture, and extra-judicial killings. These abuses are a serious concern, and they need to be addressed by the government.
- Lack of economic development: Jammu and Kashmir is one of the poorest regions in India, and the abrogation of Article 370 has not done much to improve the economic situation in the region. The region still lacks infrastructure, and there are few job opportunities. This is leading to a sense of frustration and despair among the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Way forward
- Political stability: The first step is to create political stability in the region. This can be done by holding elections and restoring the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. This will give the people of Jammu and Kashmir a voice in their governance and will help to create a sense of normalcy in the region.
- Economic development: The second step is to promote economic development in the region. This can be done by investing in infrastructure, creating jobs, and attracting businesses to the region. This will help to improve the standard of living for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and will reduce the sense of deprivation and alienation that many people in the region feel.
- Sectarian harmony: The third step is to promote sectarian harmony in the region. This can be done by addressing the root causes of sectarian tensions, such as poverty and unemployment. It is also important to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. This will help to create a more peaceful and harmonious society in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Human rights: The fourth step is to protect human rights in the region. This means ensuring that people are not arbitrarily arrested, tortured, or extra-judicially killed. It also means ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and that people have access to justice. This will help to build trust between the people and the government and will create a more just and equitable society in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Environmental protection: The fifth step is to protect the environment in the region. This means addressing the challenges of deforestation, water pollution, and air pollution. It also means promoting sustainable development and ensuring that the natural resources of the region are used responsibly. This will help to protect the environment for future generations and will also create jobs and opportunities in the region.
Hence a comprehensive approach that prioritises security, respects human rights, promotes economic development, and fosters a sense of belonging among the local population. Effective and inclusive governance, along with meaningful dialogue, will be crucial in finding lasting solutions to the complex issues in the region to ensure Insaniyat, Jamhuriyat & Kashmiriyat.