Zero stone-pelting in 2023: Why Abdullah and Mufti still refuse to see the change in Kashmir

In the dramatic aftermath of the contentious abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir has undergone seismic shifts, sparking fervent debates and impassioned rhetoric. Among the vocal critics, National Conference Vice President Omar Abdullah stands firm, asserting that the people of the region have been subjected to nothing but “problems and suffering” since the constitutional amendment. However, this open letter endeavours to challenge this narrative, unveiling a perspective that illuminates the historical changes and socio-political transformations that have unfolded in the valley, contrary to the assertions of Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti.

Even earlier on July 12, 2023, the dynamic duo of skepticism, Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah, once again donned their rhetorical armor, questioning the government’s narrative of normalcy post the Article 370 abrogation. In their seemingly never-ending quest to uncover problems, one might be inclined to ask if they possess a mystical ability to find issues where none exist. Ah, the marvels of political clairvoyance!

Dear Omar,

In your latest statement, you said and I quote you ‘Normalcy claims in J&K mere prank’. In my humble capacity as a student of Kashmir conflict, I would like to challenge this argument.

Contrary to the dissenting voices, this bold move wasn’t an act of oppression but a resolute step against an entrenched system that had bestowed absolute and unbridled legislative and executive powers upon the ruling elite. In the aftermath, as Omar questions the purported lack of problem-solving, it is imperative to illuminate ten pivotal historical changes that have unfolded post the abrogation, each a testament to a recalibrated destiny for a region marred by decades of turmoil. It’s time to unveil the dramatic metamorphosis that has emerged from the ashes of Article 370, dispelling the myths and embracing the realities of a Kashmir redefined.

Let’s address the first undeniable transformation: an end to the scourge of stone pelting. The Centre, mentioned during the hearing of In re: Art 370, highlighted profound changes in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, emphasising the positive impact on governance, development, public administration, and security. The orchestrated street violence, a regular menace, has now become a relic of the past. The affidavit reveals that incidents of organized stone pelting, connected with terrorist-separatist agendas, went from a staggering 1,767 in 2018 to zero in 2023. This shift has not only curbed the economic ripple effects caused by bandhs and stone pelting but has also restored normalcy, enabling schools, colleges, businesses, and daily life to thrive without intermittent disruptions. The transformation is evident – a region once gripped by chaos has found its way to peace and prosperity.

Let’s cast a spotlight on another transformative change that speaks volumes. Post Article 370’s abrogation, civilian casualties in Jammu and Kashmir have notably decreased. The incidents of organized stone pelting, connected with terrorist-separatist agendas, went from a staggering 1,767 in 2018 to zero in 2023. Secondly, during the pre-abrogation period, there was an annual average of 28.6 civilian deaths, totaling 41,000 over 27 years. Contrastingly, in 2019, civilian deaths due to cross-firing were 18, loss of 22 in 2020 and by 2021, it reached zero. Additionally, civilian casualties from terrorist violence dropped from 39 in 2019 to 37 in 2020 and 2 in 2021. These statistics underscore a significant improvement in the security situation, emphasizing the positive impact of Article 370’s abrogation.

Thirdly, the security landscape in Kashmir underwent a notable transformation post the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, bringing about positive changes in the fate of our security forces. In the period from 2010 to 2019, the annual death toll ranged from 4 in 2014 to a high of 91 in 2018. However, the years following the constitutional change saw a commendable decrease in security force fatalities. In 2019, the figure stood at 80, and further dropped to 62 in 2020. This decline in casualties reflects a historic and positive shift, underlining the effectiveness of the post-370 era in safeguarding the lives of our dedicated security personnel.

Fourthly, In the years leading up to 2019, Kashmir was engulfed in a storm of unrest, marked by strikes, curfews, and tragic loss of lives. The aftermath of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani’s killing in 2016 saw violent protests, resulting in 86 deaths and hundreds injured. The educational system suffered, with over 32 schools burnt during the turmoil, diverting youth from their studies into the tumultuous streets. However, since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, a palpable shift has occurred. The region, once marred by ceaseless unrest, has seen a decline in strikes and curfews, offering a glimmer of hope for a more secure and stable future. The positive impact of this constitutional change is evident in the diminishing echoes of turmoil, paving the way for a transformation in the valley’s narrative. If civil unrest, militancy and political activity are taken to be the three indicators of peace in the Valley, none looked good in these couple of years before 2019.

Dear Omar and Mehbooba, you claim that the situation in the valley is dire, how is it that, if I may ask.

In 2010, Omar, under your rule as a CM, 120 youth died in stone pelting clashes.

In 2016, Mehbooba, under your joint coalition government with BJP, where in you were CM, 120 youth again died in stone pelting clashes.

The question arises now that, for the first time in two decades, since four years, which is 1460 days and counting, not one youth has died, but you are saying that the situation overall is terrible. Are we then to assume that normalcy is stone-pelting and youngsters dying every week? The end of stone-pelting and no civilians dying is actually a terrible development for your politics.

The Government’s grand symphony for Jammu & Kashmir includes the transformative Central Sector Scheme (Rs 28,400 Crore) featuring incentives like Capital Investment Incentive, Capital Interest Subvention, and more. Echoing in harmony are schemes such as the Prime Minister’s Development Package, Jammu & Kashmir Infrastructure Development Finance Corporation, and the Financial Support Scheme for Handicrafts and Handloom Sector. This orchestration of initiatives, numerous in its virtuosity, not only fuels industrial growth but conducts a profound employment symphony, ushering the valley into an era of holistic development.

Dear Mehbooba,

In your latest statement, you said and I quote you ‘Disappointment and fear grip Jammu and Kashmir’. I would like to counter this statement, as facts point otherwise.

In the wake of Article 370’s abrogation, Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed a poignant resurgence, marked by a remarkable surge in tourism. Once a favoured haven for global travellers in the 1960s to 1980s, the region faced a decline due to unrest. However, with the return of peace, foreign tourists are flocking back, with Secretary of Tourism, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, noting a substantial rise to 20,000 visitors in the last seven months—an unparalleled leap in three decades. The Valley’s business community attests to this transformative shift, with hotels reaching unprecedented occupancy levels since August 5, 2019. The G20 summit served as a global eye-opener, signaling a shift from political and security scrutiny to a newfound embrace of J&K’s potential. Post abrogation, the Union government’s concerted efforts have paved the way for a flourishing environment in industries, tourism, health, and education, echoing a narrative of hope and positive transformation.

The recent initiative by the Jammu and Kashmir government, offering Rs 2.5 lakh for every inter-caste marriage involving a Dalit, reflects a significant stride towards fostering social harmony and inclusivity in the region. In tandem with this, the emergence of AIIMS Awantipora marks a pivotal development, promising advanced healthcare facilities for the residents.

Contrary to claims that “nothing has changed,” the reopening of Inox Multiplex after three decades, liberated from militant diktats, symbolizes a resurgence of cultural and entertainment spaces. The beautification of Srinagar, notably along the Jhelum river front and in Lal Chowk, paints a vivid picture of transformation, amplified by the addition of Radisson Suites, a luxurious hotel contributing to the city’s skyline. Polo View Market’s innovation adds to the commercial vibrancy.

The assertion gains further weight with the rekindled nightlife, dispelling the shadows that once shrouded the streets from the Airport to Lal Chowk. The recent hosting of the G20 summit not only showcased Kashmir’s global engagement but also illuminated its streets, dispelling the notion that darkness still lingers post-370 abrogation. These tangible changes challenge the narrative of stagnation, affirming a new era of progress and prosperity in Kashmir.

Kashmir is on the brink of a historic transformation with an upcoming rail link connecting Srinagar to the rest of India. This game-changing initiative includes the Chenab Bridge, standing tall at 359 meters above the river, now recognized as the world’s highest rail bridge. To overlook these monumental strides is to miss the resounding success and global significance that this ambitious project brings to the Valley, firmly establishing Kashmir on the map of progress.

In a historic triumph, the remote Gurez Valley in Bandipora is now illuminated, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Power Development Department (PDD) and the District Administration, marking its inaugural connection to the electricity grid. This achievement, a testament to progress in even the most secluded corners, reflects the unwavering commitment to development in Kashmir.

As I pen down these transformative changes, I can’t help but assert that these are just a glimpse of the broader spectrum of improvements. There are countless more milestones to be reached, each contributing to the metamorphosis of Kashmir. So, with all due respect, Omar and Mehbooba, your statements suggesting stagnation contradict the narrative painted by these tangible achievements. The facts speak a different story, one of resilience, growth, and a promising future for Kashmir.

The author is a practicing advocate. She writes articles on women’s rights, politics and law. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost_’s views._

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