Solemn Promise: On Restoring Statehood for Jammu and Kashmir
Baramulla, Nov 5, 2024 – The call by Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha for the restoration of statehood to the Union Territory must be seen as both a demand from the newly elected regime and a reiteration of the promise made by the Centre. This call, part of the LG’s customary address to the Assembly, reflects the demand of the new dispensation headed by the National Conference and aligns with a recent Cabinet resolution.
The Promise and Its Significance
The Union government had given a solemn promise to the Supreme Court that J&K, downgraded and divided into two Union Territories (UT) in August 2019, would regain its statehood. Although no timeline was provided, the promise holds greater force now, as Assembly elections have been held and a representative government installed. This assurance was given during the hearing on the validity of the Presidential notifications abrogating the State’s special status under Article 370 and the adoption of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act by Parliament. It was based on this assurance that the Constitution Bench decided not to rule on whether the State’s reorganisation into two UTs was permissible under the Constitution.
Public Sentiment and Democratic Faith
The reasonably high turnout in the Assembly elections demonstrated the faith reposed by the people of J&K in democratic institutions and their desire for a return to popular rule. While the removal of the State’s special status may continue to rankle for many, few would disagree that the restoration of statehood is a priority for the people. The election of a new regime has strengthened democratic processes, leaving no reason or excuse for any further delay in conferring statehood.
Security Concerns
There is some cause for concern over the security situation, as evidenced by a spurt in militant attacks. Both civilians and soldiers have been killed, and many of the victims were non-local workers in the Valley. The most likely explanation for the escalation is that militant groups want to create a sense of fear among non-local workers and provoke a backlash from the security forces. However, neither any spike in terror attacks nor the fact that the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party at the Centre could not realize its hope of being in power in J&K should be seen as a reason to delay a positive decision on its statehood.
The Path Forward
The need for the elected regime to have its governance space expanded by the benefits of full statehood brooks no delay. The restoration of statehood is not just a political demand but a necessary step for the socio-economic development of the region. It is essential to create an enabling environment for employment, sustainable development, social inclusiveness, and economic expansion. The government must work collaboratively with all stakeholders to fulfill the hopes and aspirations of the people.
Key Developments
- Commitment from Leadership: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has reiterated the government’s commitment to restoring full statehood and constitutional guarantees to Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that this move would be a “befitting reciprocation” of the faith reposed by the people in democratic institutions.
- Political Consensus: The newly elected Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has passed a unanimous resolution urging the Union Government to restore statehood. This resolution reflects the collective will of the elected representatives and echoes the aspirations of the people.
- Public Sentiment: The demand for statehood remains strong among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. High voter turnout in the recent assembly elections indicates the enduring faith of the people in the democratic process and their desire for full democratic governance
Bottom-Line
There can be no further delay in restoring statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. It is a solemn promise that must be fulfilled to ensure the region’s stability, growth, and democratic governance. The restoration of statehood will mark the beginning of a healing process, reclaiming constitutional rights and protecting the identity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
