Changing the status of J and K – ramifications (English Version) Rakshak News 07 Aug 19
http://www.rakshaknews.com/vishesh/decision-on-jk-is-appropriate-but-the-effect-of-change-remains-to-be-seen
Changing the status of J and K – ramifications (English Version) Rakshak News 07 Aug 19
The decision has been taken. J and K is no longer a state within a state and has also been bifurcated into two Union Territories (UT). While the error of 70 years has now been rectified, the ramifications of the decision are now being felt. Legal hurdles are bound to follow, and the action would be questioned in the Supreme Court. Valley based political parties would lead the charge opposing the same.
While there were jubilations in most parts of the country and in Ladakh, there was disappointment in Kargil. Reactions in the valley remain subdued as it continues under curfew. The real test would come in a few days when the government lifts the curfew. 12th Aug is Eid and that would be the day when there would be large congregations. How would the situation unfold is the test? Would the government have managed to communicate the benefits of its decisions by then to the local population has yet to be seen.
The few political families which have thrived on this article, taken the situation for granted, this step has come as a big shock. They had for decades been projecting to the masses that the only link between Kashmir and India is Article 370. They ignored the fact that the article denied Kashmiris reservations applicable across the country, slowed development and Article 35A was discriminatory to their own populace and women.
The only game being played by the Hurriyat and valley political parties was about losing their majority status. This much hyped issue never had nor would have relevance. Despite being citizens of the state, residents of Jammu and Ladakh never expanded into the valley. Migration was the other way around. Even with the amended changes, only those organizations seeking to enhance development, initially most government controlled, would venture in and establish industry in the valley. It would be decades before anyone ventured in as a resident.
Deep within Kashmir, the public are unconcerned about whether the article remains or is removed, they seek peace and a means to earn livelihood. It is the youth, which has for decades been fed by fake propaganda from across, religious Jihad talks from Mosques and wrong messages from their local political leaders exploiting them for own advantage, who need to be convinced of its benefits. This is the audience which needs to be targeted with the right message. Can it be done in a short while, is the challenge for the government.
The world is aware of the Indo-Pak dispute over Kashmir and many nations have been briefed on the process adopted by India and its legality. The reason is to pre-empt any actions by Pak. Pak would attempt to raise it internationally. While it may not succeed in creating multiple waves, it would bring the region into limelight. It would also seek to spread false propaganda across the valley employing social media and rumourmongering.
Though India can reject any calls or advice from the international community, as Israel does on its grabbing Palestinian lands, the situation of the two countries is not the same. Israel is strongly backed by the US, whereas in the present circumstances, desperate to withdraw from Afghanistan with the backing of the Pak army, the US may be compelled to toe a careful line.
Nations would be keenly watching how the decision of the Indian government is accepted by the local public. Low levels of violence and protests would be welcome, not enhanced violence. If India is to pass the test, then it must ensure security measures are in place and well implemented. Security forces should be advised to exercise maximum restraint.
With the division of the existing state into two UTs, there would be changes which would benefit security forces. The centre would be controlling Ladakh through the Lt Governor, ensuring that there would be no let up in meeting the requirements of security forces to challenges faced from China and Pakistan. In J and K, in all likelihood, security would remain with the Lt Governor as has been adopted in the Delhi and Puducherry model. This would reduce political pressure on the local police and other security agencies. It would assist in controlling terrorism and maintaining law and order.
In summation, taking the decision was the easy step. Conveying the benefits to the local populace, convincing them that it would be for their benefit is the difficult part. Simultaneously, would be controlling the spread of fake propaganda and violence, once the restrictions and curfew are withdrawn. If this has also been figured into the government’s plans only then would it be a successful transition. The days ahead would provide the answer.
About the Author
Maj Gen Harsha Kakkar
Retired Major General Indian Army