By Altaf Hussain Wani
The recent assembly electoral success of the National Conference (NC) is reaction against the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) controversial policies, particularly the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A, which stripped the region of its special status. However, this victory raises critical questions about the future trajectory of the NC and the broader political aspirations of the people of Kashmir.
The NC’s historical emphasis on the protection of Article 370 has often been a double-edged sword. While it has galvanized support among those who feel marginalized by the BJP’s centralization of power, it also exposes the party’s long-standing commitment to a narrative that has, at times, betrayed the very people it seeks to represent. The slogan for the restoration of the pre-1953 position has echoed through the valleys of Kashmir for decades, yet the reality on the ground has been one of disillusionment and betrayal. The people of Kashmir have often found themselves caught in a cycle of promises unfulfilled, leading to a growing skepticism towards political parties that once held their trust.
The NC’s recent electoral win is not a harbinger of popularity but rather a reflection of the collective dissent against the BJP’s policies. The political climate is charged with resentment towards the BJP’s agenda, which many perceive as an attempt to disempower the people of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly its Muslim population. This resentment is not just political but deeply personal, intertwined with the lived experiences of individuals who have faced violence, repression, and a denial of their basic rights.
As the Omar Abdullah-led government marks six months in office, the lack of tangible progress raises alarm bells. The people of Kashmir are not merely looking for symbolic representation; they demand action that aligns with their aspirations for self-determination, peace, and human rights. Alarmingly, the current Chief Minister appears to wield little real power over the police and state machinery.
Recent events, such as a fashion show held at pictures snowboarding Gulmarg without the consent of the local government and the opening of liquor shops in the region, further expose the authority—or lack thereof—of the local administration. Such incidents not only undermine the credibility of the NC but also raise questions about whether the party is willing to make further compromises to maintain a façade of power, even as it becomes increasingly disconnected from the realities faced by the people of Kashmir.
In this context, the call for a free plebiscite resonates with many Kashmiris who seek a democratic resolution to their aspirations. The right to self-determination is not merely a political slogan; it is a fundamental human right that has been denied for too long. Activists advocating for this cause emphasize the need for international attention and intervention, given the historical injustices faced by the people of Kashmir. The ongoing human rights violations, including the suppression of dissent, arbitrary detentions, and the militarization of civilian life, underscore the urgency of addressing these issues through a lens of justice and accountability.
The political dynamics in Jammu and Kashmir are further complicated by the broader geopolitical context, with India and Pakistan’s historical rivalry casting a long shadow over the region. The aspirations of the people of Kashmir cannot be fully understood without acknowledging the role of external actors and the impact of their policies. The international community must play a proactive role in facilitating dialogue and ensuring that the voices of the Kashmiri people are heard and respected.
In conclusion, the current political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir demands a critical reevaluation of the roles played by local parties like the National Conference, alongside a renewed commitment to the principles of democracy, human rights, and self-determination. The people of Kashmir are not merely subjects of political maneuvering; they are agents of change, deserving of a future that reflects their aspirations.
As the NC navigates its path forward, it must prioritize the genuine needs of the people it represents, lest it fall into the same patterns of betrayal that have characterized its past. The time for change is now, and the call for justice and a free plebiscite must echo louder than ever. The challenge is clear: will the National Conference rise to the occasion, or will it continue to enjoy the illusion of power while compromising the very principles it claims to uphold?
Author: Altaf Hussain Wani – Chairman at Kashmir Institute of International Relations (KIIR).
(The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of World Geostrategic Insights).
Image Source: IISS