NEW DELHI: The political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is at a critical juncture as the region prepares for the 2024 assembly elections.
The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 has not only altered its administrative structure but also reshaped its socio-political dynamics. In the wake of these changes, political parties are vying for the trust of the electorate by promising a future that blends aspirations with pragmatic governance.
So far, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP), and Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference have released their poll agenda focusing on their vision for governance, economic revival, cultural preservation, and social inclusion.
Restoring the statehood and special status of Jammu and Kashmir is a key promise shared by all major political parties, albeit with varied approaches.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP shares a similar viewpoint, advocating for the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A. The PDP frames the revocation of these articles as an attack on the region’s identity and autonomy. Their manifesto highlights the need to repair the relationship between Srinagar and New Delhi, which has been strained since 2019. The PDP calls for a constitutional guarantee of the region’s special status as a fundamental right
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC): JKNC’s manifesto also prioritizes the restoration of statehood and special status, viewing these as non-negotiable for peace and stability. They pledge to work towards the reinstatement of the pre-2019 political and legal status, including the restoration of the state flag and the state’s constitution. JKNC is committed to passing a resolution against the 2019 reorganization in the newly elected assembly as its first order of business.
These unified demands for statehood restoration and special status highlight the deep-rooted desire among all the political parties to restore the autonomy and identity of Jammu and Kashmir. Each party views this as a critical step toward healing and empowering the region.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP): JKAP emphasizes the need for statehood restoration to empower local governance and rebuild public trust. Their manifesto underlines the urgency of revisiting laws repealed post-2019 and ensuring that administrative power is returned to local representatives. The party advocates for reinstating a bicameral legislature, which it believes is critical for effective governance.
Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC): JKANC’s manifesto takes a strong stance on the full reinstatement of Articles 370 and 35A. The party argues that these constitutional provisions are essential for maintaining the region’s identity and autonomy. JKANC pledges to continue its legal and political battle to restore these articles, emphasizing that the revocation was an unconstitutional act that violated the trust of the people.
Economic revival is a shared priority across the manifestos, with each party proposing a whole range of initiatives to stimulate growth and development.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP’s economic strategy includes advocating for a special economic status for Jammu and Kashmir to address the economic challenges post-2019. Their manifesto outlines comprehensive relief packages, tax incentives, and the revival of cross-LoC trade to boost the local economy. The PDP also focuses on developing a robust start-up ecosystem, particularly in agriculture and digital sectors, to create employment opportunities.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC): JKNC’s economic agenda includes the transfer of hydroelectric projects to the state, providing free electricity up to 200 units, and increasing the royalty share from power generation. The party emphasizes the importance of industrial growth, particularly in the MSME sector, and proposes the establishment of special economic zones to attract investment. JKNC also focuses on the agricultural sector, aiming to protect local farmers from the impact of imports and support horticulture through targeted initiatives.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP): JKAP’s economic vision focuses on leveraging local resources, particularly in the energy and tourism sectors. They propose the transfer of hydel projects from the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) to the state to boost power generation and employment. Additionally, the party plans to develop new tourist circuits, including religious and cultural sites, to attract visitors and boost local economies.
Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC): JKANC emphasizes economic self-reliance through local resource management. Their manifesto calls for securing 50% royalties from power generation and water resources, which would significantly increase local revenue. The party also plans to revive traditional industries like handicrafts and the silk industry, promoting them through global marketing initiatives. JKANC aims to create a favourable environment for entrepreneurs by providing incentives for start-ups and skill development programs.
Each party’s economic strategy reflects a recognition of the need to harness local resources, support traditional industries, and promote innovation. By focusing on energy, tourism, and entrepreneurship, these parties aim to create a diversified and resilient economy that provides sustainable livelihoods for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP’s manifesto emphasizes the restoration of rights and cultural identity, particularly through the reestablishment of the J&K Human Rights Commission. The party advocates for the promotion of religious tourism and the protection of land and employment rights for locals. PDP is also committed to the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits, offering them secure housing and employment opportunities to facilitate their reintegration.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC): JKNC’s cultural preservation strategy includes protecting and promoting the region’s heritage through comprehensive plans for tourism and cultural industries. The party pledges to restore the autonomy of key cultural institutions and create a state health policy to address the healthcare needs of all citizens. JKNC also commits to the promotion of local crafts and the protection of the region’s unique cultural identity.
The preservation of Jammu and Kashmir’s unique cultural and social identity is a priority across the manifestos, highlighting the region’s rich heritage.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP): JKAP advocates for the preservation of cultural identity through constitutional guarantees similar to those in Article 371, which protects the identities of certain northeastern states. The party also plans to establish themed tourist villages that celebrate the region’s cultural diversity. JKAP is committed to ensuring the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits, providing them with the necessary support for reintegration.
Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC): JKANC focuses on reviving and promoting indigenous handicrafts, which are vital to the region’s cultural and economic fabric. The party proposes the creation of dedicated e-commerce platforms to market these products globally. JKANC also emphasizes the need to protect local interests by ensuring that domicile certificates are issued only to locals, safeguarding the region’s demographic and cultural integrity.
These commitments reflect a shared understanding of the importance of protecting Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage. By advocating for constitutional guarantees, promoting traditional industries, and supporting the return of displaced communities, these parties aim to foster a sense of belonging and cultural continuity.
Governance and administrative reforms are crucial components of the manifestos, as parties seek to improve the effectiveness and transparency of the government.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP’s governance strategy includes the establishment of mini secretariats to decentralize governance and improve access to administrative services. The party advocates for the restoration of democratic rights and the protection of civil liberties, highlighting the need for transparent and accountable governance.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC): JKNC’s administrative reform plans include the full implementation of the Autonomy Resolution passed by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly in 2000. The party also focuses on restoring normalcy by repealing the Public Safety Act (PSA) and ensuring the release of political prisoners. JKNC emphasizes the need for efficient and inclusive governance that respects the rights and aspirations of all citizens.
These governance and administrative reform plans reflect a collective desire for a responsive and accountable government. By advocating for the restoration of traditional governance practices, decentralization, and transparency, these parties aim to rebuild public trust and enhance the effectiveness of governance.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP): JKAP calls for significant administrative reforms, including the restoration of powers to the Chief Minister and Cabinet. The party emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in governance, proposing fast-track processes to fill government vacancies and regularize temporary employees.
Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC): JKANC proposes the revival of the Darbar Move, a bi-annual practice symbolizing the unity of Jammu and Kashmir. The party also emphasizes the importance of statutory recognition for the Single-Line Administrative System, which would ensure localized decision-making and enhance administrative efficiency.
Social welfare and inclusion are key components of the manifestos, with each party seeking to address the needs of marginalized communities and promote social justice.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP): PDP’s social welfare initiatives include providing free electricity and water for households, offering free timber for construction to economically weaker sections, and increasing funds for social security schemes. The party also advocates for inclusivity, proposing support for transgender individuals and eunuchs to ensure their equal rights and opportunities.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC): JKNC’s manifesto includes a strong focus on social welfare, proposing financial assistance for women-headed households, free public transport for women, and the establishment of senior citizen homes. The party emphasizes the importance of a robust public distribution system to ensure food security and promises to enhance old age and widow pensions.
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP): JKAP outlines a comprehensive social welfare agenda, including increased pensions for the elderly, widows, and disabled individuals. The party proposes providing free LPG cylinders to BPL families and enhancing social security measures to ensure that all citizens have access to basic amenities and support.
Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference (JKANC): JKANC focuses on social welfare schemes for vulnerable groups, including orphans, widows, and the physically challenged. The party proposes reinstating and enhancing these schemes to empower rather than just assist marginalized communities. JKANC also emphasizes the empowerment of women, with specific programs aimed at their socio-political and economic development.
The manifestos of PDP, JKNC JKAP, and JKANC have almost common themes on many issues. The common call for the restoration of statehood and special status underscores a collective desire for autonomy and self-governance.
The diverse strategies for economic revival, cultural preservation, governance reform, and social inclusion reflect the parties’ commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and just society.
Although these manifestos offer a roadmap for these political parties, but it is also true, that hardly anyone votes for the parties based on their poll agenda.
Still, the 2024 elections represent a pivotal moment, to shape the destiny of Jammu and Kashmir.
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