In Kashmir, where the mountains kiss the sky and the lakes reflect the beauty of the heavens, lies a political landscape that seems to defy all conventional norms.
Here, amidst the picturesque backdrop, political parties engage not in the serious business of governance or ideology, but rather in a theatrical display of electioneering that borders on the absurd.
The demand for elections reverberates through the streets and alleys of Kashmir, with political parties clamouring for their chance to seize power. Yet, when it comes to the time to fight, the battleground transforms into a stage for a friendly match. Ideology takes a backseat, and the only competition seems to be in the art of deceiving New Delhi.
Unlike elections elsewhere in the country, where issues such as development and welfare take center stage, in Kashmir, the political discourse is marred by a glaring absence of any substantive agenda. Instead of debating policies and plans for the betterment of the people, politicians indulge in a game of mud-slinging, accusing each other of misdeeds ranging from land grabbing to corruption and extortion.
Gone are the days when political leaders articulated a vision for the future, inspiring hope and confidence among the populace. Today, the political landscape in Kashmir is shrouded in ambiguity and confusion, with no clear direction or purpose. It is as if Kashmir itself is pitted against New Delhi and the rest of the country, locked in a perpetual struggle for supremacy.
The tactics employed by Kashmir based politicians are as perplexing as they are baffling. While they shower their opponents with roses in public displays of camaraderie, behind closed doors, they unleash a barrage of vitriol against New Delhi.
It is a curious spectacle indeed, reminiscent of corporate rivals vying for lucrative tenders, where alliances are forged and broken with the flick of a wrist.
But amidst this political circus, one cannot help but wonder: what about the people of Kashmir? What about their aspirations and dreams for a better future? Tragically, they seem to have been relegated to the sidelines, mere spectators in a game played by self-serving politicians whose only agenda is to cling to power at any cost.
The dearth of leadership and vision in Kashmir is a matter of grave concern, not only for the people of the region but for the nation as a whole. In a time when India is changing, Kashmir cannot afford to remain mired in a quagmire of political opportunism and expediency.
It is high time for Kashmiri politicians to rise above petty rivalries and personal ambitions and instead focus on the greater good of the region. They must articulate a clear vision for Kashmir’s future, one that is inclusive and progressive, and work towards its realization with sincerity and dedication.
At the same time, it is incumbent upon New Delhi to engage with the people of Kashmir in a meaningful dialogue, addressing their legitimate grievances and concerns.
After the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, J&K has witnessed unprecedented development. The administration led by Lieutenant Governor ManojSinha has pulled the Union Territory out of the quagmire of uncertainty and has allowed a common man to breathe freely in an atmosphere free of fear and anxiety.
Pertinently, schedule for the Lok Sabha polls has been announced and political parties have jumped into the fray. A few Kashmir based parties are “unhappy” over Lok Sabha and Assembly polls not being held together in J&K, but Union Home Minister Amit Shah made it clear that assembly polls in the Union Territory will be held before September 2024.
As Lok Sabha elections come closer the battle lines are being drawn, but the Kashmir based parties are trying to stitch alliances to defeat New Delhi rather than standing on their own feet and fight for the people, whom they want to represent in the Parliament.
It seems these leaders need to be reminded that ultimately, the fate of Kashmir lies in the hands of its people, who have endured decades of conflict and uncertainty.
It is time to break free from the shackles of the past and chart a new course towards peace, prosperity, and progress. Only then can Kashmir truly fulfill its potential as a beacon of hope and harmony in the heart of the Himalayas.
Sheikh Khalid Jehangir writes on Politics, Defense and Strategic affairs and is presently heading International Centre for Peace Studies (ICPS).and core member of Bhartiya Janta Party.