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A political party is a group of people who come together to contest elections under a single banner with common goals. Their primary role is to set the agenda and formulate policies. Each party attempts to persuade people through its manifesto. From a broader perspective, a political party serves as a means for people to have a say in governance.
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| Representational Image |Source: AI |
If we talk about Kashmir, there are several political parties, including the National Conference, the National Congress, the People’s Democratic Party, the Bharatiya Janata Party, and various others. Kashmir has been a matter of constant debate, even in the United Nations, due to the claims of both India and Pakistan over the region. The Indian-administered part of Kashmir, to which we belong today, previously enjoyed a special status. In 2019, this special status was revoked, and the state was downgraded to a Union Territory. After the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, the focus of the debate shifted to regaining statehood and restoring special autonomy.
At the moment, the ideal role for mainstream political parties, particularly the Gupkar Alliance, should be to remain steadfast in their demand for statehood restoration. Thereafter, they should work towards generating employment opportunities to channel the energy of the youth productively. The much-needed normalcy in the region should be the ultimate goal. Public welfare schemes should be implemented, and efforts should be made to revive the state's lost identity. The education sector, which is heavily reliant on mainstream political parties, requires investments, innovative approaches, and systemic reforms.
Regarding the integration of the Chenab Valley, it appears that the people of this region have lost faith in mainstream politics. Historically, the Congress Party dominated the area alongside the National Conference. However, in recent years, we have observed the decline of Congress, and the National Conference has also lost its support base.
Mainstream political parties, whether the National Conference or Congress, should visit the region and take confidence-building measures with the local population. The growing sense of alienation among the people of Chenab Valley has driven them towards the Bharatiya Janata Party and, in some cases, even the Aam Aadmi Party from the Doda-East region. As far as Kashmiri identity is concerned, treating the people of Chenab Valley as "foster brothers" has further alienated them from the movement.
About the author: Rizwan Ahmed belongs to Mankote area of Mendhar, Poonch. He is pursuing Law at Jamia Millia Islmia University, New Delhi.