Kashmir on centre stage

The demand for trifurcation of Jammu and Kashir is extremely ill conceived since it can only lead to long-term problems even if there are sh...

The demand for trifurcation of Jammu and Kashir is extremely ill conceived since it can only lead to long-term problems even if there are short-term gains for some political groups or individuals. The trifurcators have not been able to make out a credible case for what they are proposing, especially in explaining how such a move would further interests of the nation or that of the people of the state. On the other hand, autonomy means different things to different people. It is difficult to get away from the impression that demands for trifurcation is a knee-jerk reaction to greater demands for autonomy that others are putting out for parochial advantages. What is certain is that J038;K is entering a critical phase of political activity leading up to the elections in a few months8217; time. Logically, serious issues like autonomy and trifurcation, which have significant implications, should be dealt with by a newly elected government of the state rather than become political football in electoral politics.

It seems that both the autonomy advocates and the trifurcation-wallas have forgotten the essence of the country that India is. The founding fathers had visualised India as a federal system based on equality and social justice. This is why it is still referred to as the 8216;Union of India8217;, and could easily have been called the United States of India! A democracy as diverse as ours must rely on dynamic change rather than remain fixated on old structures. But the core values remain constant. The first two decades led to the consolidation of the country, even as old internal boundaries were altered. The larger states created in the process may need to be right-sized for better management. But J038;K does not fall into this category.

What the state needs most is efficient and effective administration, sensitive to the needs and aspirations of its people. Greater delegation downward and empowerment of the institutions of democracy and administration would help. The recent survey by an independent agency confirms that the people overwhelmingly want greater economic development and better quality of life. Wounds inflicted by a decade and a half of terrorism and political manipulation need to be healed, and conditions created for the half million people 8212; refugees in their own country 8212; to return to their homes with hope, confidence and security. Neither autonomy not trifurcation would achieve this; but their demands could aggravate the existing tensions. The political process should aim to produce a leadership that can provide a new vision to the people toward peace and greater prosperity. The essence of Kashmiriat must return. New Delhi would no doubt ensure that adequate resources are placed at the disposal of the leadership to achieve these goals. But the state, like the other constituents of the republic, will also have to ensure a greater sense of responsibility in managing its affairs.