In a moment marked with both symbolism and substance, Jammu and Kashmir ceased to be a state at midnight until the start of October 31, following a three-month-long carefully-crafted process from August 5 last. The abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution meant an end to the special and autonomous status of the state, and what followed in one sweep was the division of the state into two, taking Ladakh away. The resultant formation of two Union Territories — one covering J &K and the other the Ladakh region – and related governmental steps including nullifying of Article 35A, have the sanction of the Indian Parliament and the stamp of President Ram Nath Kovind.
The three-month period since August 5 was one that tested the patience as also preparedness of the law and order machinery in Jammu and Kashmir and beyond. Political party leaders, activists and militants were put under house arrest and curfew continued for several days in the Valley and beyond. Internet and communication services remained suspended for weeks. The leaders put under house arrests are mostly in confinement while some small fries have been released. The visit of a European Union delegation of MPs to Kashmir did not cause any stir either, though question marks were raised about the way it was organised. In the minimum, they came, saw and left without causing any embarrassment to New Delhi.
So far, things seem to be progressing well in respect of the wider cause of bringing entire India under one Flag and one Constitution. The way this was effected with no serious troubles from Kashmiris so far is admirable. Hope is that the momentum will be sustained and efforts made to calm tempers in the Valley. Admittedly, Pakistan was caught napping. It failed to create a ruckus at the international level. Since the issue of terror — support to which from Pakistan is well-known — was linked to the Centre’s August 5 mission, Pakistan stood isolated in the world fora.
Kashmir, simultaneously, requires proper attention from the Centre on the development front. India’s most charming tourism landscape was a victim to acts of militancy and terror for the past three decades at a stretch. It hurt the Valley and its people. With Pakistan’s influence over Kashmiris also being neutralized slowly but steadily, this should be time to woo the snowy hills’ people. Infrastructure and other projects must get a fillip in right earnest, so that job opportunities could be created for now and tourism and other money-spinning sectors will bloom again. This is time to give peace a chance in Kashmir.