Decoded: Why BJP Is Still Not Restoring Statehood to Kashmir.

The revocation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a seismic shift in India’s approach to Jammu and Kashmir. While the BJP-led central government celebrated it as a monumental achievement, the residents of Jammu and Kashmir have been left grappling with the aftermath. Over four years later, the promise of statehood remains unfulfilled, leaving the region's people in despair and uncertainty. This article explores the reasons behind this delay, its implications, and the unaddressed suffering of Kashmir’s people.

The BJP’s Narrative: Promises Unkept

The BJP had assured that the abrogation of Article 370 was a step towards integrating Jammu and Kashmir into the Indian mainstream. In his Independence Day speech in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that “development and democracy” would thrive in the region. Yet, the promise of restoring statehood, reiterated in Parliament by Home Minister Amit Shah, remains a distant reality.

Quote from Amit Shah (2019): “Statehood will be restored once the situation normalizes.”

The ambiguity surrounding the definition of "normalcy" has given the central government significant leeway to delay restoring statehood, raising questions about their commitment to democratic values.

Ground Realities: A Stagnant Developmental Landscape

Education: The prolonged internet shutdowns post-August 2019 have irreparably harmed education in Kashmir. Students have struggled to keep up with their peers in other states due to disrupted online learning during the pandemic.

A local teacher in Srinagar laments: "Our students are brilliant, but they’ve been reduced to spectators in their own futures. No connectivity, no opportunities.”

Employment: The unemployment rate in Jammu and Kashmir stands at a staggering 23%, one of the highest in India. Despite claims of investment and job creation, on-the-ground realities tell a different story. Young graduates, engineers, and even Ph.D. holders are forced to take up menial jobs or leave the region.

Political Ambiguity: Local Leadership’s Role

Former Chief Ministers like Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have been vocal critics of the BJP, yet their leadership has also come under scrutiny. Many Kashmiris feel that these leaders failed to safeguard the region’s autonomy when they had the chance.

Omar Abdullah’s statement (2021): "Restoration of statehood is not a favor; it is a right that the BJP is denying us.”

While their words resonate with the sentiments of the people, critics argue that their political posturing lacks concrete action. Pages Journal

Parliament’s Stance: An Exercise in Evasion

In Parliament, the opposition has repeatedly questioned the government on the delay in restoring statehood. However, responses from the ruling party have been vague and non-committal.

Statement by Ghulam Nabi Azad (2021): "The government’s silence on statehood is louder than their words on development.”

This evasion underscores the government’s reluctance to engage with the issue transparently.

Social and Psychological Impact on Kashmiris

The prolonged uncertainty has led to widespread psychological distress in the region. A report by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) ontières revealed that nearly 45% of Kashmir’s population shows symptoms of mental distress.

A young Kashmiri entrepreneur shared: "We are surviving, not living. Every day feels like an uphill battle against despair and hopelessness.”

The Bigger Picture: Geopolitical Calculations

Many analysts believe the BJP is delaying statehood due to geopolitical calculations. A Union Territory provides the central government with direct control over the region, minimizing the influence of local leaders who might oppose their agenda. This approach aligns with the BJP’s broader strategy of centralization.

Public Resistance: A Growing Frustration

Protests, albeit limited due to stringent security measures, reflect the growing frustration among Kashmiris. Placards demanding “Statehood Now” have become a common sight in Srinagar’s small gatherings.

International Perspective: A Blow to India’s Democratic Image

Globally, India’s actions in Kashmir have drawn criticism. Organizations like Amnesty International have flagged human rights violations, including arbitrary detentions and communication blackouts. This has dented India’s image as the world’s largest democracy.

Conclusion: A Call for Action

The continued delay in restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir is more than a political issue; it is a humanitarian crisis. The BJP’s focus on consolidating power at the expense of democratic values has left the region in limbo. It’s time for the central government to honor its promises and prioritize the welfare of Kashmir’s people over political expediency.

The words of a Kashmiri elder resonate deeply: "We are not asking for favors; we are asking for what is ours.”

Image- Indian Cultural Forum

Regards,

Sahil Sajad ?

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"How can you claim victory when the people feel defeated?" - Sahil Sajad ?