The Kashmir Dilemma and the Repeal of Article 370: A Comparative Analysis

In August 2019, the Indian Government introduced the Reorganisation Bill, which revoked the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir by Article 370 and divided it into two Union Territories—Ladakh and J&K—under the direct control of the Union government. The government argued that this move would end separatism and terrorism in the region. This article assesses whether the repeal of Article 370 reduced separatism and militancy or intensified it. While analysing this analogy, it has been revealed that this decision was looked upon through the prism of 'demographic change' which exacerbated the situation. Although some positive governance changes resulted from the decision, it also discredited the mainstream politics in Kashmir, which relied on Article 370 for political survival. Lastly, this paper emphasises the need to address the political concerns of the people and revive the democratic process in the region as essential steps towards establishing peace.