PM’s outreach to J&K
The inhabitants of the union territory have become more optimistic due to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurances about the holding of Assembly elections and the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. The PM’s promise to conduct the Lok Sabha elections in the UT without fear of violence at a poll rally in Udhampur highlights the government’s commitment to reestablishing normality.
Nonetheless, prompt fulfillment of these commitments is necessary, as is the preservation of democratic ideals and values in the area. India’s democracy would be undermined if statehood is not restored and assembly elections are not held on time. The region’s advancement is hampered by the UT’s protracted absence of an elected administration and its underrepresentation in the Rajya Sabha.
The need for democratic representation and administration in J&K is reaffirmed by the Supreme Court’s directive to hold the Vidhan Sabha elections by September. Resuming the election process is not only required under the constitution, but it is also a critical step in restoring public confidence. Beyond platitudes, the administration must address the aspirations of the people and lay forth a schedule and path toward these benchmarks.
There are still major obstacles to overcome, despite the government’s commendable development endeavors in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, and connectivity, as well as the drop in terror-related occurrences.
Setting inclusive discourse and interaction with all stakeholders, including civil society and regional political parties, as a top priority is crucial. The people will be empowered and economic and political stability would be established in J&K with the restoration of statehood and the holding of free and fair elections.
