Jammu and Kashmir: A Five-Year Review of the Abrogation of Article 370 (GS Paper 2, Polity & Governance)
Introduction:
- The abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, marked a significant turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).
- This article, which had granted special autonomy to the region, was revoked by the Indian government, leading to widespread debate and analysis of its implications.
- This five-year anniversary provides an opportunity to reassess the ongoing challenges and the progress made in addressing the region’s issues.
Interconnected Forces that Created Terrorism in the Valley:
Troubled Pakistan:
- Political Instability and Military Influence: Pakistan has faced persistent political instability, with frequent military interventions disrupting democratic processes. No Prime Minister has completed a full term, partly due to the military's dominance. This instability has allowed the military to use the threat of India to consolidate its control over Pakistani politics and society. The military’s influence is further compounded by its alignment with radical religious ideologies, which have shaped its strategic policies.
- Religious Radicalization: The partnership between Pakistan’s military and radical Islamic groups has exacerbated the conflict in Kashmir. The military’s involvement with extremist ideologies has not only fueled internal instability but also contributed to the spread of terrorism in the region.
Cold War Geopolitics:
- Kashmir as a Geopolitical Pawn: During the Cold War, Kashmir became a strategic pawn in the larger geopolitical struggle between the superpowers. The United Nations passed numerous resolutions supporting Pakistan’s stance, which reflected the Cold War alignment of the period. Despite this, India maintained its sovereignty and resisted external pressures.
- US-Pakistan Alliance and Its Consequences: Pakistan’s strategic alliance with the United States, particularly its involvement in the Baghdad Pact and support for the Afghan Mujahideen during the Soviet-Afghan War, further complicated the Kashmir issue. The Mujahideen, armed and trained by the US through Pakistan, later shifted their focus to Kashmir, intensifying the conflict.
Radical Islam:
- Sectarian Tensions: Kashmir’s indigenous Sufi tradition, which emphasizes reverence for saints and shrines, contrasts sharply with the Wahhabi interpretation of Islam. Wahhabism, with its strict views on idol worship and religious practices, has been a source of tension in the region. The conflict between Sufi and Wahhabi ideologies has fueled religious extremism and violence.
- Religious Justifications for the Conflict: Pakistan’s claims over Kashmir are rooted in religious ideology, framing the conflict as part of a broader struggle between Islamic and non-Islamic worlds. This religious framing has been used to justify and perpetuate violence, despite the fact that radical Islam has limited historical presence in Kashmir.
Fraught Federalism:
- Complex Relationship with Delhi: The relationship between J&K and the central government has been uniquely complex. Unlike other states, J&K has experienced intense central engagement, including the imposition of Article 370, multiple wars with Pakistan, and several Delhi Accords. This complex interaction has created friction between local autonomy and central control, making it difficult to achieve a balanced federal relationship.
- Historical Context: The special status of J&K, established by Article 370, was intended to address the region’s unique political and cultural identity. However, this special status also led to a complex and often contentious relationship with the central government.
Separatist Politics:
- Soft Separatism and Elite Capture: Article 370 allowed for a form of soft separatism, where local political elites could leverage the special status for their own benefit. This led to ‘elite capture,’ where a small group of individuals controlled the region’s politics and economy, reinforcing a closed society. This dynamic hindered broader integration and development, contributing to ongoing instability.
- Impact on Governance: The presence of separatist politics led to a situation where local governance was often at odds with central policies, further complicating efforts to address the region’s challenges.
Failing Pakistani Strategy:
- Strategic Failures: Pakistan’s strategy for Kashmir, which involved pursuing independence followed by annexation, has largely failed. This approach was supported by financial maneuvers, such as over-invoicing the US for its support in the Afghan war. Despite these efforts, the strategy did not achieve its objectives.
- Global Implications: The radicalization supported by Pakistan has had broader implications, contributing to global terrorism and straining international relations. The initial focus on Kashmir has evolved into a wider issue of terrorism affecting both regional and global security.
Way Forward: Job is Not Finished Yet
Despite the significant step of abrogating Article 370, the task of resolving the conflict in J&K remains incomplete. The following measures are essential for continuing the peace process:
Strengthening Local Security:
- Role of J&K Police: The J&K police must be empowered to take a leading role in counter-terrorism efforts. This involves enhancing their capabilities, providing better training, and ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle security challenges.
- Community Engagement: Building trust within local communities and involving them in security efforts can enhance effectiveness and support.
Diplomatic Measures:
- UN Office Closure: Shutting down the UN office in Srinagar could reduce international interference and focus efforts on domestic solutions. This move would signal a shift towards addressing the conflict through internal mechanisms rather than external arbitration.
Political and Economic Reforms:
- Encouraging New Leadership: Support for new political leaders who are committed to peace and development is crucial. This involves fostering a political environment that encourages fresh perspectives and effective governance.
- Restoring Statehood: Gradually restoring statehood to J&K, starting with a model similar to Delhi’s, can promote local governance and autonomy. This step should be carefully planned to balance local aspirations with national interests.
Global Isolation of Pakistan:
- Diplomatic Pressure: Efforts should be made to isolate Pakistan diplomatically, reducing its influence and support for terrorism. This involves engaging with international partners and advocating for policies that pressure Pakistan to curb its support for extremist groups.
Economic Development:
- Increasing Private Investment: Boosting private investment in J&K is essential for economic growth and job creation. This includes creating favorable conditions for businesses, improving infrastructure, and supporting entrepreneurship.
- Job Creation and Development: Addressing economic grievances and providing opportunities for local populations can reduce discontent and support long-term stability.
Conclusion:
- The abrogation of Article 370 was a significant and necessary step in addressing the issues in J&K. However, it is not a complete solution.
- The ongoing efforts to resolve the conflict require a multifaceted approach, including strengthening security measures, pursuing diplomatic strategies, implementing political and economic reforms, and fostering global support.
- Continued commitment to these efforts is essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region.
