Uniform laws

Everybody knows there is no fineness or accuracy of suppression: if you hold down one thing,you hold down the adjoining, Saul Bellow famously wrote. And whatever its logic,it is certain that the Armed Forces Special Protection Act AFSPA has long been regarded a heavy-handed law,one that allows the army overweening powers and special immunity in areas that are deemed disturbed. Primarily intended for the Northeast when it was crafted in 1958,it was extended to Jammu and Kashmir in 1990. In both cases,the law has been central to the regions resentments.

Though it has long been contested as disproportionate and draconian,the armed forces and defence ministry have long objected to its withdrawal saying that the forces need that special cover to maintain control in volatile areas,and that taking it away could have serious security implications. On the other hand,there is unanimity in Kashmir that AFSPA should be relooked,given the new normal in the state,its clear investment in the electoral process and then waning of violence,and there were signs that this would be heeded,even through this new cycle of conflict in the Valley. The debate over the act continues but now,there is indication that AFSPA may be relaxed in six districts in Jammu and Kashmir Srinagar,Ganderbal and Budgam,Jammu,Samba and Kathua conveniently,NC and Congress bastions. This is not just a huge symbolic move,it will also compel security forces to reorient their actions in the interiors of the state and make a visible difference in daily life.

However,now it all hinges on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. He has received a tremendous boost,having demonstrated the Centres backing on a core demand the question is whether he can channel this newfound political capital into keeping these regions secure. Imphal witnessed a round of extortions and separatist trouble,after AFSPA was withdrawn,and the chief minister looks hapless. Omar must be careful not to become another Ibobi,and end up proving the necessity of a harsh act that no one really wants.