Paper: GS-II, Subject: Polity, Topic: Federalism, Issue: Restoration of J&K Statehood and Democratic Accountability
Context
Recently, the seventh anniversary of the August 2019 constitutional changes renewed debate over Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. The issue gained importance after the 2024 Assembly elections restored an elected government with limited powers.
Explanation
Major Gains Since 2019
- Separatist organisations have lost much of their earlier influence.
- Organised shutdowns, stone-pelting and street violence have declined considerably.
- Security agencies have disrupted several terrorist and terror-financing networks.
- The 2024 elections revived representative government after a ten-year gap.
- An opposition party’s victory demonstrated genuine electoral competition.
- The removal of earlier restrictions expanded opportunities for previously excluded communities.
Continuing Concerns
- Public silence does not necessarily indicate trust or emotional integration.
- Lasting peace requires dignity, political participation and freedom to question authority.
- Cross-border terrorism and targeted attacks remain important security threats.
- Kashmiri Pandits have not returned to the Valley in significant numbers.
- Their rehabilitation requires safety, housing, employment and social acceptance.
- High youth unemployment may increase frustration and political alienation.
Governance and Accountability
- Jammu and Kashmir currently has an elected Union Territory government.
- Police and public order remain outside the legislature’s authority.
- The Lieutenant Governor controls several important administrative matters.
- The Chief Minister therefore carries responsibility without possessing complete authority.
- Such divided control makes public accountability difficult.
- Urban congestion and weak planning also reveal gaps in responsive governance.
Way Forward
- Statehood should be restored without reviving the former special status.
- Administrative powers must be clearly assigned to the elected government.
- Employment generation should be treated as a development and security priority.
- Transparent recruitment and private investment can create opportunities for young people.
- Security measures must be combined with dialogue and democratic participation.
- The safe and voluntary return of Kashmiri Pandits must remain a priority.
Conclusion
The changes of 2019 produced gains in security, integration and equal citizenship. However, prolonged Union Territory status weakens democratic accountability. Restoring statehood can combine national unity with federal equality, responsive government and greater public trust.
Source: (The Indian Express)
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