22 Mar 2023
Centralisation of de-centralisation
The abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A was a golden and historical decision
by the Modi government. It indicated the will of government to get the
things right in Kashmir. Article 370 was blamed by everyone for the
corruption, lack of development and concentration of power amongst the few
ruling elites. The much-touted panchayat and local bodies election were
hailed as the ushering of transparency and the way of making development
reach every nook and corner of the state. Thousands of candidates fought
the elections in spite of grave threats to their lives. Many have lost
lives also to keep the flame of democracy alive in the state.
My recent visit to Kashmir after many months was an eye opener. Although I
had visited, Kashmir after the abrogation of article 370, my visit now was
almost after 13 months of the abrogation of the contentious article. My
interaction with people, politicians, panches, sarpanches, media and
employees shocked me. The current state of affairs was a far cry from what
was being shouted in the TV debates, many to which I myself have been part
to.