The Lok Sabha successfully ratified the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, aiming to appoint two representatives from the Kashmiri migrant community, one being a woman and another representing displaced persons from PoJK, to the UT Legislative Assembly. Additionally, the Lok Sabha approved a bill for OBC reservations. Undeniably, Jammu and Kashmir has been marred by a series of egregious historical blunders, with the Home Minister’s enumeration of two, namely the ill-conceived ceasefire declaration and the imprudent internationalisation of the Kashmir issue, along with the perpetuation of Article 370. The establishment of a separate Prime Minister for the state and the subversion of democracy during the formation of the Constituent Assembly stand out as grievous blunders, casting a dark shadow over J&K’s prospects post-independence. The subsequent emergence of the Plebiscite Front, the ascent of Jamaat-e-Islami, and the unchecked proliferation of fundamentalism created an unassailable cascade of challenges. The partition-era seeds sowed disastrous repercussions, exacting a heavy toll on Kashmiri Pandits. Terrorism’s insidious rise, the breakdown of law and order, and the mass exodus unfolded unabated. The so-called terrorists metamorphosed into leaders, and the stranglehold of separatists tightened its grip, plunging the region into a maelstrom of shutdowns, orchestrated processions, baseless rumours fuelling stone-pelting, clandestine hawala transactions, wanton violence against innocents, suicide attacks on the assembly and on Government/ army establishments became grim routine affairs.
The incumbent regime, recognising the intolerable status quo, made the historic decision to abrogate Article 370 in 2019, triggering a transformative paradigm shift over the ensuing four years. Shutdowns and stone-pelting are now relics of the past. Terrorism, curtailed to sporadic incidents, has been met with resolute opposition. Meticulously planned efforts from agencies have effectively halted hawala transactions, choking off funds for terror networks. Captured terrorists-turned-leaders face the full force of the law. The counter-terrorism operations consistently dismantle nefarious terror modules. Multifaceted strategies, including the confiscation of properties belonging to terrorists and their sympathisers, have been implemented.
Corruption, a pervasive malaise, has undergone a stringent crackdown, with a resolute commitment to e-Governance facilitating seamless service delivery directly to the doorsteps of the populace. A meticulously structured feedback mechanism stands as a testament to the prompt resolution of grievances, underscoring a paradigm shift in administrative transparency. The establishment of new medical colleges, a dedicated emphasis on rural development, and sustained endeavours to foster substantial industrial growth in Jammu and Kashmir reflects a strategic vision for holistic development. The spotlight firmly rests on harnessing the untapped potential of tourism and leveraging cutting-edge infrastructure to propel the region into a modern era.
The imperative of rail connectivity to Kashmir and the relentless pursuit of world-class road networks for Jammu and Kashmir epitomise a commitment to comprehensive infrastructural enhancement. The prevailing peace is palpable, as evidenced by a record influx of tourists in the post-COVID era. High-profile events like the G20 summit in Srinagar, the winter games in Gulmarg, and various conferences attest to the newfound stability. Unprecedented developmental initiatives blanket the entire region, complemented by the establishment of a three-tier Panchayati Raj system. The Delimitation Commission has rectified the historical misrepresentation in constituencies, ensuring equitable political representation.
Comprehensive application of national laws, justice for PoJK and West Pakistan refugees, and targeted schemes for marginalised segments underscore the regime’s commitment. The groundbreaking reservation for other backward classes heralds an era of inclusive development, while reserved constituencies guarantee proportional representation. The relentless drive to dismantle the entrenched terror infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir is steadfast, with the Home Minister’s assurance of zero terrorism signalling a promising future. The tables have indeed been turned, paving the way for a future characterised by enduring peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.
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