DIRECT ANSWER: The impending Assembly elections in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, following a successful delimitation exercise and the reorganization under the J&K Reorganization Act, 2019, mark a critical step in the restoration of the democratic political process. These elections, mandated by constitutional necessity and internal stability requirements, are essential for establishing representative governance and ensuring the legitimacy of the Jammu & Kashmir Political Process.
Why in News?
J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently highlighted the upcoming Assembly elections—the first since 2014 and the reorganization of the region in 2019—as a significant administrative and democratic milestone during his budget speech, emphasizing the return of political legitimacy after a prolonged period of central rule.
What is the Concept / Issue?
The issue revolves around the steps taken by the Union Government to restore full-fledged democratic functioning in the UT of J&K, which has been under President's Rule (or Governor's Rule/L-G's administration) since June 2018. This restoration involves the mandatory requirement to hold Assembly elections based on the new electoral boundaries finalized by the Delimitation Commission in 2022, thereby transitioning from bureaucratic governance to elected representative governance.
Why is this Issue Important?
- Strategic: The successful conduct of elections validates the central government's constitutional changes (removal of Article 370 provisions) by achieving political normalization and demonstrating a commitment to democratic continuity.
- Economic: Establishing a locally elected government is crucial for policy stability, effective budget utilization, and attracting investment necessary for accelerating economic revival and generating employment in the region.
- Geopolitical/Social: Provides a legitimate platform for local voices, channels political aspirations constructively, reduces alienation, and strengthens India's democratic narrative globally regarding the management of the sensitive border region.
Key Sectors / Dimensions Involved
- Dimension 1: Constitutional and Legal Framework (Implementation of the J&K Reorganization Act, 2019; adherence to Supreme Court directives on timely elections; applicability of Article 239A).
- Dimension 2: Electoral Reforms and Delimitation (The restructuring of 90 Assembly seats; providing reservation for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and nominations for Kashmiri migrants and Displaced Persons from PoJK).
- Dimension 3: Security and Internal Administration (Coordinating between the Election Commission, central forces, and local police to ensure free, fair, and secure polling across all districts).
What are the Challenges?
- Ensuring High Turnout and Legitimacy: Overcoming potential apathy, localized boycotts, and intimidation attempts that could affect the credibility of the election outcome.
- Maintaining Stability Post-Polls: Deep polarization among regional political parties and competing regional aspirations (Jammu vs. Kashmir Valley) might complicate the formation and stability of the incoming government.
- Cross-Border Interference: Persistent security threats and attempts by inimical state and non-state actors to disrupt the democratic exercise through targeted violence or misinformation campaigns.
UPSC Relevance
Prelims Focus:
- J&K Reorganization Act, 2019 provisions (UT status, Assembly structure, L-G powers).
- Composition, mandate, and timeline of the J&K Delimitation Commission.
- Constitutional provisions regarding UT administration (Article 239A and similar provisions).
Mains Angle:
GS Paper II – Indian Constitution, Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these; Functioning of the Union Territories.
How UPSC May Ask This Topic:
Discuss the implications of the Delimitation Commission report on the political landscape of Jammu & Kashmir. Analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with the restoration of the democratic process in the Union Territory after 2019. (250 words, 15 marks)
What is the Way Forward?
- Ensuring Inclusive Participation: Facilitating the effective participation of all eligible voters, especially Kashmiri migrants and displaced persons, and integrating their political representation into the new governmental structure.
- Strengthening Democratic Roots: Empowering local institutions like Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies through greater devolution of funds, functions, and functionaries to deepen democratic decentralization.
- Building Political Consensus: The central government must maintain sustained dialogue with regional political parties and civil society to foster a spirit of cooperation necessary for long-term peace and stability post-elections.