Indian-Occupied Kashmir’s Assembly Demands Restoration of Partial Autonomy
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- November 7, 2024
- 3:25 pm
- 27
- Current Affairs
In a major development, the IoK assembly passed a resolution on Wednesday. It calls on New Delhi to restore the partial autonomy revoked in 2019. This demand from the Muslim-majority territory challenges Prime Minister Modi's government. It revoked the area's special status, which caused widespread anger.
The 2019 decision, which stripped Kashmir of its autonomy, drew international attention. It was followed by strict security measures. These included mass arrests and a communications blackout. Since then, IoK has been governed by a New Delhi-appointed official. Local representatives have only limited powers. However, local elections were recently held in the region. Voters elected a government that openly opposes Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This assembly speaks for the people of Kashmir. It now seeks a return to a structure that respects Kashmir's unique identity and rights.
A Call for Dialogue and Restoration
The resolution, which passed by a majority, urges the Indian government to restore Jammu and Kashmir's special status. It should discuss this with the region's elected leaders. "This assembly calls upon the Government of India to talk with elected representatives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It seeks the restoration of their special status," reads the resolution.
The call for dialogue reflects a desire for Kashmir to regain the special rights that once protected its identity and culture. The Indian Constitution grants special status to Kashmir. It allowed more control over internal matters. This was widely supported by the local population and political leaders.
Opposition from the BJP
The resolution faced strong opposition from the BJP, with its 29 members in the 90-seat legislative house voting against it. The BJP's stance may hinder the resolution. It needs approval from the federally appointed governor. Despite these challenges, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that, "the assembly has done its job." This marks the start of a likely long fight for autonomy restoration.
Historical Context and Security Concerns
Kashmir’s complex history adds weight to the assembly’s demand. Since the partition in 1947, Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan, with both countries claiming the region in full. Over the decades, it has become one of the world's most militarized zones. About 500,000 Indian troops are stationed there. A separatist movement has lasted 35 years. It has killed tens of thousands, both civilians and soldiers.
Since the removal of autonomy, Kashmir has been downgraded to a union territory. This status gives New Delhi more control and limits local leaders. Prime Minister Modi has promised to restore the region's federal status. But, a timeline is unclear.
Future Implications
The resolution shows a strong local desire for dialogue. It also calls for a return to a more autonomous status. The call reflects the hopes of the Kashmiri people. They seek peace and a government that respects their unique culture and identity. As this demand gains visibility, it could affect beyond Kashmir. It might spark talks on governance and autonomy in the region.
Kashmir's assembly wants partial autonomy. Now, we await New Delhi's response. For Kashmiris, the resolution is a step toward regaining autonomy. It was once central to their governance and way of life.
