The Repeal of Article 370: Understanding the Real Consequences for Kashmir

After the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmir has been reclaiming what is rightfully theirs, not just politically but through symbolic actions such as the installation of Shivling in Pulwama district. This protective symbol for the entire village highlights the deep-rooted sentiments of the Kashmiri people.

While some may initially resist the changes, the Kashmir issue has now risen to become one of the top trending topics. It is imperative for peace in South Asia that the issue is addressed sooner rather than later, either within 1, 5, 10, or 50 years down the line.

Major Issues Post-Repeal

Here are some of the major issues that the Kashmiri people have faced after the revocation of Article 370:

Uncertainty of Life

The repeal of Article 370 has brought about a profound sense of uncertainty. Many Kashmiri people have died or been wounded during protests. The disruption in daily life has led to violence and loss of life, as historical events have shown.

Education Disruption

The cancellation of classes in schools and colleges has affected Kashmiri students severely. Without physical study materials or proper sources for acquiring knowledge, they face significant difficulties in continuing their education. The government has only allowed one online center for students to access study materials, which is insufficient given the scale of the issue.

Ruined Daily Routine

The removal of Article 370 has completely disrupted the daily routines of Kashmiri people. Markets are frequently closed, and tourism has seen a significant decline. This loss of economic activity has had a profound impact on the local economy and quality of life for Kashmiris.

Communication Issues

The most critical issue has been the loss of connectivity with the outer world due to a disabled internet service. This has severely disrupted the flow of information, mobility, and access to essential services, further compounding the challenges faced by the region.

Fear of War

The move has fueled a fear among the Kashmiri people of being dragged into a larger conflict or local killings. The tension and insecurity have created a hostile environment, affecting the morale and safety of the populace.

Prospects for Development and Peace

Kashmir's future is bright with the promise of better opportunities for development. The region will have a chance to develop in areas such as business, trade, industry, tourism, agriculture, horticulture, education, and technology. As a separate Union territory, Kashmir will have all the rights, freedoms, facilities, and benefits available to other citizens. This development is expected to bring about prosperity in line with the wishes, needs, and requirements of the region.

Despite the immediate challenges, it is crucial to note that the repeal of Article 370 has brought more legitimacy to the Jammu and Kashmir state institutions. It has also facilitated the integration of the region into the broader fold of the Indian Union, where the Armed Forces are not seen as an enemy but as protectors.

However, the political culture will not change overnight. The challenge lies in addressing the wrongdoers and ensuring the safety of common citizens. The role of local forces such as the Police will be crucial in maintaining law and order.

One of the significant effects is the conflict between different syndicates within the region. The experience of countries like Turkey in dealing with internal conflicts provides a cautionary tale. However, under the legitimacy of the Indian Statehood, Jammu and Kashmir is well-positioned to manage these challenges.

Overall, the repeal of Article 370 has profound consequences for Kashmir, both positive and negative. As the region moves forward, it is essential to address these issues with a balanced approach, ensuring the safety, education, and development of the Kashmiri people.