epilogue november 2008

Jammu, November 1, 2008 / Vol 2 / Issue 10 || Price Rs. 15 || Postal Registration No. JK-350/2007-09 || www.epilogue.in

Exclusive Interviews :Raja Zulqarnain Khan, President, PaK

Zulfikar Abbasi, President Muzaffarabad CCI

NEW ERA : LoC is Line of Commerce

CHALLENGE : 2008JAMMU & KASHMIR ASSEMBLY ELECTIONS

DIALOGUE

Salman HaidarFormer Foreign Secretary

Managing Temples

Preventing Shrine Tragedies

Mata Vaishno Devi Management Shows The Way

ISSN 0974-5653

Paying obeisance can be a soul lifting experience at Shiv Khori, the famous Cave shrine of lord shiva situates 80 Kms west of Katra (Vaishnodevi) About 100 meters in length the cave is shaped as a damroo of lord shiva - wide at the two ends and narrow in the middle. Besides

the self made lingam, the cave abounds with a number of otther natural objects having resemblance with Goddess Parvat_Ganesha and Nandigan

JammuIN TOUCH WITH THE DIVINE

J&K Tourism

Jammu : Tel : 0191-2548172, Fax : 2544842

www.jktourism.org or E-mail at : [email protected], [email protected]

Shivkhori

Aks

hara

-08

Epilogueb e c a u s e t h e r e i s m o r e t o k n o w

www.epilogue.in

Editor Zafar Iqbal Choudhary

Consulting EditorD. Suba Chandran

Associate EditorIrm Amin Baig

Designs & LayoutKeshav Sharma

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Phones & emailOffice : +91 191 2493136Editorial: +91 94191 80762Administration: +91 94190 [email protected]@[email protected]

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CONTENTS

Prologue

Letters to the editor 45

News Wrap

J&K Stories 6

Dialogue

Salman Haidar 16

Report

LoC Trade 32Interviews

Raja Zulqarnain Khan 34Zulfikar Abbasi 35

Special Feature

Managing Temples 38Manoj Kumar Dwivedi

Comment

Kashmir Train 45C. Udhay Bhaskar

Columns

Days Gone By 47Prof. Jigar Mohammad

Srinagar Sentiments 53Syeda Afshana

Vision From Valley 55Prof Noor Ahmed Baba

Ladakh

Heritage 50Dr. Sonam Wangchuk

3

Who Said What

Volume 2, Issue 10, November 2008

IN FOCUS

Election 2008

The Challenge of 200818Valley Scenario20Jammu Scenario22Ladakh Scenario 24Answers To Some Most 26Frequently Asked Questions

Epilogue Ø 1 × November 2008

For more News, Views & Analysis Log on to

www.epilogue.in

J&K Assembly Elections

CHALLENGE :2008

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n august 15, 2002 the then Indian issue. Through these elections peoples got

Prime Minister Atal Behari a reassurance of their right to elect a OVajpayee made a mention of representative of their choice. The one

Jammu and Kashmir elections in his they actually vote for. The government

independence day speech from the thus formed symbolized the urges and

ramparts of the Red Forte. His promise to aspirations of the people and carried

the people of Jammu and Kashmir a free, responsibility of addressing genuine

fair and impartial electoral exercise grievances falling in its constitutional

carried a meaning and commitment to the ambit. Unfortunately, the experience in

restoration of public faith in institutions of the following years was not the one people

democracy. Accolades for Vajpayee had expected. An internally competitive

started pouring in not only from Jammu rag-tag coalition government utilized all

and Kashmir but also from far and wide these years not only to undo the

places like US and Europe. Kashmir issue is consolidated advantages of 2002 elections

complex and deeply embedded in the but also damaged the prospects for a

partition history of this subcontinent. But future political course. It is not about

till 2002 denial of democratic space blaming one political party or the other,

through alleged electoral malpractices at one individual or the other. The entire

behest of New Delhi was considered as a spirit of the coalition arrangement

trigger to the post-1989 separatist largely failed to look beyond the

movement and militant violence. respective electoral constituency

Independent poll observers dropped in interests while being fully aware of the

from different parts of world and the importance of elections which returned

e lec t ions were he ld under an them to power. Six years later, the

international monitoring, though not electoral battle of 2008 has been launched

officially recognized by the Election in a completely hostile atmosphere when

Commission or the Government. National gulf between Kashmir and India and within

Conference lost power after a long rule three regions of the state is wider than

spreading over two decades. Its Chief ever. This reflects upon the work of

Ministerial candidate lost election at leadership –in State and at Center –over

family's long held turf. Mirwaiz Umar past six years. Our present issue examines

Farooq of Hurriyat Conference described the scenario in which assembly elections

Omar Abdullah's loss as his loosing the 2008 are being held. Two forthcoming

Jamia Masjid of which he is the head priest issues will bring more reports from the

by way of a dynastical order. Around three ground. Meanwhile our thanks are due to

dozen hitherto little known or unknown Prof Rekha Chowdhary for her enormous

faces made their way to the legislative contributions in shaping up this issue of

assembly. Neither separatists, nor Epilogue. Thanks are also due to Pawan

Pakistan or any body else had anything to Vivek and Avineet Prashar of the UGC-SAP

say on credibil ity of elections. at Department of Political Science,

International community complimented University of Jammu for their compilation

India for giving people of Jammu and of the election data.

Kashmir a fair chance to vote. Through

this exercise a stage was set for a credible Feedback :peace process to address the Kashmir [email protected]

Sorry For 2002

Zafar Choudhary


P R O L O G U E

FROM THE EDITOR

Epilogueb e c a u s e t h e r e i s m o r e t o k n o w

EPILOGUE aims at providing a platform where a meaningful exchange of ideas, opinion and thoughts can take place among the people and about the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The attempt is to research, investigate, communicate and disseminate information, ideas and alternatives for the resolution of common problems facing the state and society of Jammu & Kashmir and in the context of their significance to South Asia as a whole.

We welcome contributions from academics, journalists, researchers, economists and strategic thinkers. We would also like to encourage first-time writers with the only requirements being a concern for and the desire to understand the prevailing issues and themes of life in Jammu & Kashmir

Contributions may be investigative, descriptive, analytical or theoretical. They may be in the form of original articles or in the form of a comment on current events. All contributions have to be neatly typed in double space and may be sent to the address given alongside or e-mailed to the editor.

W h i l e t h e e d i t o r a c c e p t s responsibility for the selection of the material published, individual authors are responsible for the facts, figures and views in their articles.

but it lacked many things on the was perhaps the first coverage of Alternative Route ?subject. Though the USIP report was this stretch of LoC trade as entire

The last issue of the EPILOGUE covering he lpfu l in unders tand ing the local and national media attention LOC trade is a significant document. Not importance of cross-border relations is on Srinagar-Muzaffarabad. We only the cover story in fact even the but one would have expected more people live exactly on the Line of analysis conducted by the team of local research on the cross-LoC trade. Control and have everything in epilogue deserves appreciations, I Readers have not been given to common with people on the other agree with Mubeen Shah, President CCI, understand the exact mode of business, side. It was great of governments of Kashmir ( In his interview, Epilogue Oct the volume of trade and future India and Pakistan that first they 2008) on his demand of an alternative prospects. Since this trade is expected initiated a bus link between Poonch route for the valley, since the National to be a continuous process the Editor and Rawalakote and then launched Highway of Jammu and Kashmir is the may consider bringing out another the trade links but the attitude of only life line of the people of the valley special issue with comprehensive local local government and trade lobbies therefore it is justifiable to demand an research. both at Jammu and Srinagar saddens alternative route, but there should not

us. People in Poonch are still Basheer MK be any divide and politics between the

unaware of the modalities of the Kochi, Kerala business communities of the two cross-LoC trade and have no idea

regions of the state.about their role in the whole

Tragedy of Poonch process. We request you to highlight Vineet Dugal this aspect of the cross-LoC trade as Defence Colony, New Delhi

We are happy to see that Epilogue we f ea r c l o su re o f Poonch -

has taken note of Poonch's exclusion Rawalakote trade link.

from the cross-LoC trade. KD Maini's Lacking in research story “Poonch-Rawalakote: The

Making borders irrelevant (Epilogue, Anil Bakshi Road Much Trave l l ed , Le s s October 2008) was an interesting issue Native of Poonch, now settled in Jammu Visited” (Epilogue, October 2008)

Write to the editor for your six-month free

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H E A R A N D H E A R

WHO SAID WHAT

‘We are taking risk'

N. Gopalaswamy, Chief Election Commissioner of India, while announcing election schedule for Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on October 19.

Boycotting Elections is our democratic right and Indian Election Commission must ensure this.Mohammad Yasin Malik, JKLF leader while launching anti-election campaign in Valley hours after J&K Assembly Elections were announced.

'My Father, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, who is also the patron of the party will be the Chief Ministerial Candidate'

Omar Abdullah, President, Natioanl Conference during his first election speech in Kashmir. (Elections 2008)

With present infrastructure we can exchange gifts only.

Zulfiqar Abbasi, President, CCI, Muzaffarabad Chamber of Commerce and Industries (PaK), while addressing a gathering of traders in Jammu.

Situation in Kashmir is not conducive for elections. We are participating to prevent unscrupulous elements taking advantage.

Mehbooba Mufti, President PDP, while announcing participation decision ten days after the schedule was announced.

In Verbatim


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

hose who are from outside the political arena need to

spare some time for the sake of the common man. The Tcommon man has right to information but he need be

told what information is required by him. A check on the

conventional leadership is needed to save the Jammu Region

people from getting their innocence and simplicity exploited.

Of course the people of J&K in general are to be saved from the

exploitation that the leaders have been aiming at in the name

of religion and region. People of J&K in general and the people

of Jammu Region in particular have many questions for their

leaders to answer. The people (majority living in vast far flung

and remotely connected areas) of Jammu Region have been

feeling themselves pushed to the wall.

The Jammu based political leaders of parties in power have so

far been very weak politically. No doubt the leadership at Delhi

too did never encourage the Congress or National Conference

or BJP or even PDP leaders from Jammu. Kashmiri leaders

irrespective of their political affiliations have mostly stood

united when ever it was the question of administrative and

political interest of Kashmir Valley.

For rational distribution of development funds local

administrative units do matter. A revenue district is most

important administrative unit for this purpose. It was surely

for this reason that Justice J. N. Wazir Commission had

recommended in 1984 creation of three new districts in

Jammu Region (Rajouri, Kishtwar and Samba) and only one

new District in Kashmir Region (Bandipora). Wazir Commission

recommendations were intentionally not implemented by the

state leadership and those at New Delhi since only one new

district was recommended for Kashmir region as against three

new districts for Jammu region.

It was after 22 years a decision was taken by Congress

government led by Ghulam Nabi Azad for reorganization of Poonch of Jammu Division too were having substantial District Administrative Units in J&K. But Azad led Congress population living in far flung area with inadequate means of Government too worked no different than the Sheikh Abdullah communication and bad terrain. And it was once again in 2006 Congress supported Government of 1979. In 1979 unilaterally that Jammu Division (Doda, Udhampur, Rajouri, Kathua, Sheikh Abdullah government had created three new districts Poonch, Jammu, Kishtwar, Ramban, Reasi) was meted out with (Badgam, Pulwama and Kupwara) in Kashmir Valley even by neglect. Now it was Congress lead Azad Government. splitting Srinagar District ( less than 3600 sq km area and

Against just one district as recommended by Wazir commission mostly plain terrain) into two districts (Srinagar and Badgam).

in 1984 four districts were given to Kashmir region. Jammu Where as in 1979 even the so large districts like Doda (spread

Region was also given four districts against three already over 11691 sq Km area and all bad terrain) and Udhampur

recommended by Wazir Commission. The decision was termed (4550 sq km area spread over backward areas and bad terrain)

as historic by those in the Political seat. So unfortunately even were over looked. Even Districts of Rajouri, Kathua and

a race was set amongst local leaders of Congress, PDP, National

REGIONAL DISSENT

Need for corrective measures in Jammu, Ladakh


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

Conference, JKNPP (particularly from Reasi, Samba, Kishtwar in Jammu region and 7 in Kashmir region) in Jammu Region.

and Ramban) to earn credit for the decision taken by Azad Section 50 of J&K Constitution has provided 14 elected MLCs

government in the name of Wazir Commission Report. Whereas (Member Legislative Council) to Jammu Region as against 12

the fact was that Wazir Commission recommendations were in elected MLCs to Kashmir Region in the Legislative Council.

a way ignored by the Government. Even the so called But in 1995 Justice K. K. Gupta Delimitation Commission

intelligentsia of Jammu region did not feel it worth had confirmed it's earlier order of 1992 allocating 46 MLAs

questioning those who rejoiced when Azad crossed all barriers (Member Legislative Assembly) to Kashmir Region and only

of logistics and administrative norms by giving four districts to 37 MLAs to Jammu Region in total defiance to the

Kashmir region as against recommendations for only one.. provisions of J&K Representation of People Act 1957. This

delimitation order was no more than a simple formality to Some non Congress leaders from Jammu were seen even cover the Draft proposals as were earlier notified by celebrating “Jammu Mautsav “ for the creation of new Justice Mian Jalaluddin Delimitation Commission (Judge of Districts .They should have rather agitated against the J&K high court) vide notification date April 4, 1989. No one injustice done by the government against Jammu Region. has so far answered the question that when Jammu Region May be some of those who rejoiced the injustice done to has constitutionally more elected seats in the Legislative relatively poor people of backward areas of Jammu Region Council than Kashmir Region how could a Delimitation were looking for some berth in the ministry or entry to Commission be fair in allocating lesser assembly segments legislative council. And some of them when failed to get the to Jammu region in the Legislative Assembly. More toast, they started accusing the government. The hard efforts economic advantage would have come to Jammu Region of the leadership of Kashmir Region succeeded to undo the over Kashmir had there been 9 Districts in Jammu and 7 in good that the Wazir commission recommendations could do to Kashmir.Jammu Region. Whereas Kulgam, Ghaderbal and Shopian were

considered for district status but the injustice was done to One senior National Conference leader had argued that

zones like Akhnoor, Basoli and Bani, some areas of Ladakh, etc. allegations for any unfair Delimitation can not be put on

Kashmiri leadership succeeded in getting 300 percent more Kashmir Valley leaders since the 1995 Delimitation

than what Wazir Commission recommended for them. They Commission was headed by a person belonging to Jammu

had reasons to celebrate. Azad gave nine times more to Region. Under any fair Delimitation it has to be 45 to 46 MLAs

Kashmir region than what he gave to Jammu region over and for Jammu and only 37 to 38 for Kashmir. Name of Wazir

above the recommendations of Wazir Commission. Surely it Commission report has been used by Congress in an attempt to

was the commitment of Kashmiri leaders towards Kashmir gather some political mileage in competition to National

Valley that did not allow the Farooq Abdullah, Mufti and Azad Conference and PDP in Kashmir Valley. Congress never

Governments to implement Wazir Commission report to raise bothered for Jammu region since the local leaders never stood

the number of Districts in Jammu Region from six to nine and in united for the Regional cause.

Kashmir Region from six to only seven. And of course a still greater blow was inflicted on the fortunes

The Wazir Commission remained on job from November 12 of the people of Jammu Region in particular and the

1981 to January 3, 1984 to analyze and make Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes of J&K in particular by

recommendations. But it was so surprising that Ghulam Nabi the National Conference dominated Legislative assembly by

Azad could reassess the whole issue in just half a year and amending Section – 47 of the J&K Constitution through 29th

finally order creation of 8 new districts as against only 4 Constitution Amendment Act of 2002. Through this

recommended by Wazir Commission. Ghulam Nabi Azad tried amendment it has been constitutionally laid down that any

to tactfully cover his unjust action in the name of Wazir new Delimitation can be done only after the census results of

Commission report. Some leaders from Jammu instead tried to any census done after 2026 AD are known. and hence next

help him earn some undue appreciations. The Kashmir valley delimitation could be only after 2031 AD .

has been brought at levels with Jammu by giving 10 districts as Possibilities should be seen for amending the 29th against 7 recommended by Wazir Commission. amendment through an ordinance by Governor but Congress

Since the awareness is growing amongst the masses, in the and National Conference have to work to medicate people of

times to come, it would have become very difficult to keep Jammu and Ladakh Region of injuries allegedly inflicted by

the seats in the legislative assembly for Jammu Region less them in the past.

than Kashmir Region had the number of Districts be more (9 -Daya Sagar


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

he village Akingam in South Kashmir is mostly inhabited by the Band community (folk theatre artists).Natives of this small Thamlet are famous for performing various popular dramatized

anecdotes like "Raza Pather'', Angrez pather, Shikargah. This sort of open air village folk theatre managed by companies of professional players or minstrels depicts social ills and political tyranny.

"Folk art was an expression of popular sentiment, at certain point of time when people were subjected to lot of atrocities. It is the theatre which is socially relevant and artistically brilliant. Theatre is the medium of the actor who can captivate an audience, provoke it, inspire it and move it with tender human feelings," believes M.K Raina, renowned theatre personality.

The open air theatre had some unique qualities of engineering which helped the artists to perform without availability of microphones and other paraphernalia. Spectators could view performances from close quarters and observe even the minutest expressions of the artists.

Akhingam is one of the few villages in our Kashmir which has not let modernization take away its tradition. Acknowledging the enormous talent of Kashmiri youth which largely remains untapped theatre artist Hakim Javid felt that special drive is needed to create greater opportunities for these folk artists.

"Our talented folk artists needed a platform where they can showcase their skills. They must get an opportunity to travel worldwide to give performance in international festivals.

Taking pride in your culture is one thing, and working towards developing the same is another. Only few people get to the grass roots and help the locals take their art to the world.

Last year educational theatre workshop was organized by "Indian Foundation for the Arts" under the directorship of noted theatre personality M.K Raina. These folk artists aspire for the similar type of workshop this year as well

"It was an opportunity for us to imbibe fresh lease of life to the folk theatre .It just rekindled our hopes. There is need to organize such workshops almost twice a year,'' says Rasool Band eloquently

Folk theatre will grow as people become conscious of their right to use theatre as a medium of self expression. It has nothing to do with economic viability. It liberates spectators from their passivity, inspiring them to be in direct contact with the actors.

It also underlines the need to modernize the traditional theatre of Kashmir in a precise, effective and powerful way without disturbing its own aesthetics. It is possible to create a new folk form that retains the authenticity of the tradition yet can emanate the flavour of experimentation.

-Tanveen Kawoosa

uicide rates in Kashmir are surging as 25 cases of suicides and attempted suicide are Sreported every week at SMHS Hospital in

Srinagar.Reports say that suicides in Kashmir are more common among females, while males use deadly methods to attempt suicide. A research study by noted Psychiatrist Dr Arshid Hussain and a team of doctors reveals that females in higher age group show greater tendency of committing suicide, while as males who make successful attempts on their lives fall in the age group of 25 to 34 years.The report further states that violent methods of suicide like cutting throats is a new phenomenon in Kashmir but such tendencies are present predominantly among people with history of schizophrenia and severe depression. Among Para-suicide cases 73% reported depressive disorder.Furthermore it has been observed that suicide v i c t i m s m o s t l y c o n s u m e d r u g s l i k e benzodiazepines, tricycle antidepressants and phosphorous compounds. Among mental illnesses, depression is the common cause of suicide. Majority of the suicide patients suffer from extreme depression that goes often undiagnosed and untreated. According to Dr Hussain 58% of suicide patients never receive psychiatric help. "Psycho-social factors like traumatic stress, poverty, unemployment were found strongly associated with males who made successful attempts of suicide," he said.The study says that domestic violence and multiple-trauma are the biggest contributing factors toward suicides by females. Moreover, people addicted to alcohol, cannabis and tobacco are also prone to commit suicide, the study added. The study blames the present turmoil for "catalyzing" these tendencies in valleyites and attributes the rise in suicides to it though conceding there are other factors responsible as well.The research study, Women and Children under the Armed Conflict, conducted by Educationist Dr A.G Madhosh for the National Institute of Public and Cooperation and Child development revealed that 80% of widows have higher tendencies of committing suicide especially owing to lose of only breadwinner and family breakups.

-Tanveen Kawoosa

ART & CULTURE

Kashmir’s Famous Open

Air Theater

CONFLICT FALLOUT

25 Making Bids At

Life Every Week


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

ontrary to the state government claims about

propagation of elementary education, the Cdrop out rate of orphan children continues to

rise at primary level in Kashmir.

In 1989 the drop out rate at primary level stood at

55%, while over the period of two decades it has

jumped up to 60 to 70 percent.

Despite the state government's efforts to promote

elementary education and ensure its accessibility to

the poor, the immense poverty compels orphans to

leave education halfway to eke out a living.

"Over the period of two decades, education of

orphan children has received severe setback.

Although dropout rate is increasing at alarming

rate, state government has failed to take holistic

view of the educational needs of orphan children

who live in penury," says noted educationist Prof

Madhosh.

During mid 1990's more than 400 schools were

gutted in the conflict and above 60 percent

children, which mostly comprised orphans in the

age group of 10 to 14 were deprived of education.

With the exponential increase in the number of

these children-different research studies put the

figure close to 80,000- the situation has turned

grim.

Compounding all this is the psychological stress the

turbulence has brought about. The feeling of

uncertainity,danger and anxiety impaired the

learning capacity of these children and

consequently increasing the dropout rate.

According to noted lawyer and social activist AR

Hanjura, even if most of orphans are living with

their relatives, they are unable to procure proper

education.

"After losing their parents, they are being

continuously shifted from one relative to another. In

some cases relatives hardly accept them as they

fear the property rights of their own children may them siphon grant money for their vested interests," he addedbe superseded by orphans. Not to speak of receiving Experts assert that the 2005 earthquake has aggravated the education, number of such children also reported scenario and lent another blow to the education of these maltreatment," reiterated Hanjura children owing to destruction of schools in remote areas falling "When the government fails to provide support to these close to line of control. With financial uncertainty looming neglected children, the role of social activists is counted. over their heads, most of them lead a miserable life

Unfortuantely, with 3000 NGO'S registered in Kashmir most of -Tanveen Kawoosa

SCHOOL EDUCATION

Over 60% Leaving Midway


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

"Such incidence are numerous in Kashmir yet victims

never file any complaint against the perpetrators

owing to cultural sensitivities, "said Shafat Ahmad,

Advocate J K high court. However, he added that

Supreme Court has recognized sexual harassment as

human rights violation and gender based discrimination

that affects women.

The court has also provided guidelines for employees

to redress and prevent sexual harassment at

workplace. Since this is new trend in Kashmir, people

are not well acquainted with the intricacies of law.

However, he was quick to add that in different Indian

states where such incidents have shown relentless

growth the legislation has not brought much relief.

"When you actually deal with the cases and the inquiry

process, nothing happens on ground against such

incidents at workplace," added Shafat

Dabla says the issue needs redress and can assume

serious implication for women at large if they do not

report such incidents.

Many working women in Kashmir allege that the action f Kashmiri women are storming in to every male bastion, taken against the culprits sounds nothing more than they are also ending up paying a huge price for their eyewash to hide the stink which once out can shove some in ambition as significant number of sexual harassment I to the abyss of ignominy.

incidents have come to fore especially at the hands of "My boss used to coerce me to enter in to illegitimate senior officers in government and private sector. relation .When I protested his behavior and reported the In 46.28% cases reported senior officers carried out matter to higher authorities, they did not respond. I finally

left the job," says Sabha Hameed(name changed) who harassment against their subordinate female employees, worked in a private organization as a secretary.while in 42.28% cases, colleagues of equal status were These victims further allege that if they dare to raise voice involved in this bestial acts. These findings were revealed against the perpetrators they are threatened and the by noted sociologist Prof Bashir Ahmad Dabla who further promotions are delayed. Moreover, the matter is often asserted that almost 38.18 percent females face physical hushed up and culprits go scoot free.

assaults,53% mental harassment and 10.85 reported that "In my eight years of service I have been working with lewd remarks were yelled at them at workplace.assiduity and sincerity. nevertheless, my boss deliberately

Sexual harassment of working women at workplace is a new delayed my chances of promotion. It is because once I

trend in Kashmir but most endemic. Nevertheless; experts reported his misbehavior to higher echelons in the believe that such incidents are not brought in to limelight. department who did not consider my case seriously. It Dabla in his research has observed that only 17.14% females seemed a time buying tactic to shield those who stand in file complaints against offenders while majority of victims danger of getting exposed. I cannot afford to leave the job

owing to family problems," says Humaira Rashid, a clerk in 82.85% do not report such incidents. Moreover, 50% cases Government department.reported that they were not satisfied with the action taken

-Tanveen Kawoosa against the perpetrators.

GENDER TROUBLES

In Conservative Kashmir,

Working Women Are A

Harassed Lot


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

alley is registering increase in mental disorders among people with PTSD (Post traumatic stress disorder) taking Venormous toll in females.

The study conducted in OPD of Government Psychiatric Hospital reveals that over the period of two decades, patients reported with mental disorders have increased from 1762 in 1990 to 80,000 in 2008.According to doctors 62 percent of patients diagnosed with PTSD constitute females.Admitting that there is manifold increase in the psychiatric patients noted Psychiatrist Dr Arshad Hussein said, "During 80s we used to examine 10 to 20 patients everyday in OPD. Now more than hundred patients visit the hospital. This is the tip of iceberg''Dr Hussein explained that being emotionally sensitive Kashmiri Women are easily susceptible to PTSD, which is so rampant in Kashmir due to violence.Sample of PTSD drawn from the OPD government Psychiatric hospital reveals that 20% of patients have been tortured, the close relatives of 35% were killed brutally in front of them and 30% had been injured in shoot outs.Asserting violence was the root cause of PTSD,he maintained that social circumstances vis-à-vis turmoil makes women more predisposal to stress than their male counterparts.Social factors come in to play when Women lose her only bread winner in the family. Majority of these patients have lost their family members in the turmoil, which has drowned them in to the vortex of problems. Struck by poverty ,women have to play a role beyond that of homemaker and resort to menial jobs to bring up their children,'' he emphasized.Noted Educationist Abdul Gani Madhosh has made similar observations in his research study 'Women and children under the armed conflict in Kashmir' for the National Institute of Public Cooperation and child Development. The study highlights that 80% of the war widows suffer from severe trauma owing to their husbands death and break up of their family.PTSD is an extreme reaction to the extreme stress and the patients suffering from the disease relive the traumatic event of and on through nightmare and disturbing memories disrupting their lives.According to the Psychiatrists 70% of PTSD cases can be cured through prolonged medication however delay in seeking treatment is marring the chances of recovery.Owing to its somatic effects mental illness is often perceived as a physical ailment. By the time patients approach doctors they have already been examined by quacks and other medical practitioners which minimizes the chances of recovery.

-Tanveen Kawoosa

urtuk, A land of Rocky Mountains, Glaciers, Streams and Apricot gardens, situated in Leh TDistrict of Ladakh region. The area was off the

ancient Silk routes to Pakistan and Yarkand, access and

passage to it was difficult, till the opening of road traffic, both as late as 1985. The winters are long and hard (average record -16° C in Jan/Feb). The main crops cultivated are Barley, Maize, Blackbafut and Buckwheat, some vegetables and a variety of fruit like

CONFLICT FALLOUT

Enormous Rise In Stress

Related Cases

PLACES & PEOPLE

Turtuk : One Of Last Places On Earth Has Unique Features AndSerious Issues


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

men and 100 women. The literacy rate among women was Apricot,. Steep rocky slopes and sparse vegetation offer also very low. But that rate may have declined due to a limited possibilities for cattle rearing. Goats, Sheep, population growth higher than that of increased female poultry, Cows and Dzos, A cross breed of Cow and Yak, the education. Initially medical doctors were not always latter living only on high altitudes, are the only meagre available, now there is a Doctor, named Rashid. Who himself sources for meat, milk, cheese and butter. The Baltis are ENT Specialist and also a dispenser-cum-X-Ray Technician, mostly small in stature and tough survivors, their outlook named Ismail and its facilities include a gynae-theatre-cum-being conditioned by a hard fight for existence in an labour-room, a ward with Six beds, a dispensary with lab-overpowering high altitude environment. They were facilities, X-ray and ultrasound with generator, the doctors' Buddhists until their conversion to Islam in the 15th century, outpatient examination-room. They examine patients, belonging to the Shia sect of Noorbakshia order. The people make home-visits for purposes of health-education including speak mostly Balti, an archaic form of Tibeti. The narrative family planning counseling and promotion of immunization art has therefore a strong tradition in their culture, the and ante-natal tetanus injections, ORS and Iodized salt. Kaisar saga or epos being the most prominent example of They also provide first-aid and carry out home deliveries, narrated literature. In the schools only Urdu and English are

the clinic examines on average taught, which are also used in the 30 patients per day. offices after liberation from A f te r Ka rg i l wa r, A rmy Pakistan in1971.introduced a school health I began Project work in March-programme and open Army August 2007 in Turtuk Area and Hospital, with a Lady Doctor, noticed that there were hardly gradually visiting all the schools any medical services for women in Turtuk Area, entering into available, and especially no agreements with the schools gynecologist for the entire area. and the community, for general Family planning knowledge and check-up of all school children, services were practically non-including immunization and existant and birth/deliveries advice to parents for treatment were cared by relatives or or further diagnosis, where untrained dais; accordingly necessary ECG. X-Ray in case of fertility rates as well as related suspected T.B, routine anti-mortality were exceptionally high worm treatment is given, in among women. Girls get married addition to health-education of around the age of 15 and women children, teachers and parents, have an average of over 10 and first-aid training to few pregnancies and raise about 8 women to generate income and surviving children. The record install a pride of self-help and deliveries to Ghulam Hassan's labour by their own hands, they wife 21 children, but none of are involved in assembling and them alive, except Mohammad

giving the finishing touches to the benches under the Hassan. They love to have large families and consider every supervision of their technical training teachers. In Turtuk addition an added labour force, help them to earn money. Area, the infectious diseases are most common, because of But, since family planning is promoted in Leh and the cold winters with badly heated accommodation. surrounding area, there is hardly any effect among the elder Malnutrition among women is prevalent, due to too many section of the area on religious ground, and where services pregnancies in quick succession. They lack high quality become available it is practiced after the four children by protein, iron, iodine and calcium. women, less by men. This requires not only availability of Perched high on India's mountainous borders with Pakistan, services, but quality medical after-care as near to the Turtuk is one of the last places on earth where a Nomadic patients as possible, to advise and treat in case of the usual community survives. When there is no wind the silence is side-effects and complications. Women share in addition to almost palpable. I tried to highlight health related Diseases their childbearing and rearing the hard physical labour in faced by the people of area, despite modern scientific the fields and around the house, despite their malnutrition, medicine and equipments in health department.and accordingly life expectancy among women are much

lower than men (45/60 ratio), leading to a sex ratio of 115 -Ghulam Mehdi

The Symptoms found in the area:

· Unspecified weakness, pain, fever and headache

· Respiratory tract, coughing, sputum, breathing difficulties (also tonsillitis, otitis media) Abdomen: vomiting, diarrhea, stomache ache, swelling of the liver and spleen, other disorders

· Movement of limbs: pain, swelling and abnormalities of the joints, traumas

· Uro-genital pain, burning sensation when urinating, abnormalities in menstruation

· Skin/Hair: alos parasites, otitis external

· Visible malnutrition including anemia


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

ith a small exception of Maharashtra where seat of power moves out of Mumbai for stint in Nagpur where Wthe legislature houses is situated, Jammu and Kashmir

is the only state in India which two Capitals –Srinagar in Summers and Jammu in winters. This practice has been on for more than a century and a quarter and the attempts to stall this have been resisted strongly in both regions. This year, the Civil Secretariat, after its closure in Srinagar on October 31 will be reopening in Jammu on November 10. The Governor NN Vohra, who now rules the state in absence of an elected government, has, however, ensured that the Valley is not blanked out of administrative apparatus when the seat of power stays in Jammu for next six months. Vohra has ordered establishment of Winter Secretariat at Srinagar to monitor the functioning of the Administration and ensuring effective delivery of various services during the winter months. Assuring that he will be visiting Srinagar at least twice every month, Vohra has issued a roaster on rotational stationing of his Advisors the Valley headquarters. The Winter Secretariat, which shall operate in the Civil Secretariat, Srinagar, shall comprise Special Secretary/ Additional Secretary, two Deputy Secretaries/Under Secretaries, two Stenographers, four Head, Senior and Junior Assistants and other staff. While all major departments have to move to the Winter Capital in full, most of the allied departments and directorates move in camps with their equal activities at both capitals.

fter a gap of more than 15 years, Primary

Agriculture Credit Societies have been made Aeligible for financing. Out of 765 such

cooperatives, 195 have been revived and made credit

worthy. During the year 2007-08, PACS have advanced

loans to the tune of Rs 1300 lakh to the members.

The Multi Purpose Cooperative Society (MPCS) Payeen

Brengh, a small hamlet in Kokernag area, has been a

success story. All the records of the society have been

computerized with the emerging facility of accepting

deposits from its members with the additional facility of

SMS Banking.

The State signed the MoU on April 7, 2008 with NABARD

on implementation of the revival package as

recommended by the Task Force headed by Prof. A

Vaidyanathan. In the first instance 155 PACS and all the

5 Banks in Short Term Credit Structures shall be

benefited.

The State has also furnished its response to the

Government of NABARD on implementation of the

recommendations for the revival of the Long Term

Credit Structure (Vaidaynathan II). An amount of Rs 4300

crore has been found as the amount requiring

recapitalization.

-Epilogue Newsroom

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Focus On Doubling

Agriculture Credit

DARBAR ON MOVE

Seat Of Power Shifts To

Warmer Jammu,

Governor Stations His

Men In Valley


N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

Departments moving in full:

All Departments of the Civil Secretariat including Governor's Secretariat, Personal Staff of the Advisors to the Governor, Director Estates, Department of Civil Aviation, Civil Secretariat Dispensary, Security staff of Civil Secretariat, Civil Secretariat Treasury, Executive Director, Rehabilitation Council of the Social Welfare Department; Financial Commissioner (including Joint Director Statistics in Camp); Director General of Police including CID Organization; Vigilance Commissioner; Chief Electoral Officer, J&K; Director General Prisons; Director General, Fire and Emergency

Archive, Archaeology and Museum; Chief Architect; Project Services; Director Information; Director General, State Motor Chief IWDP, Hills, Forest Department; Nucleus staff of Garages; Director, Hospitality and Protocol Department with Commissioner Commercial Tax; Nucleus staff of Funds the Catering Staff; Director Accounts and Treasuries; Director Organization; Gazette Section of J&K Government Press; Employment; Director Forest Protection Force; Director Registrar Cooperatives; Subordinate Office of Science and General Youth Services and Sports; Director Technical Technology Department; Excise Commissioner, J&K with Education; Director State Forest Research Institute; Director Skeleton staff; Inspector General of Police Railways; Inspector Tribal Affairs; Development Commissioner Power; Labour General of Police Crime; Director Social Forestry; J&K Service Commissioner; Principal Chief Conservator of Forests; Selection Board with staff as determined by the Chairman Accounts Officer, G P Fund moving cell; Custodian General; Board of Professional Entrance Examination as per the staff to Transport Commissioner; Assistant Director/Programme be determining by the Chairman; Chairman Pollution Control Officer AIDS Cell; Special Officer Auqaf; State Board of Board; Board of Unani Ayurvedic System of Medicine; J&K Technical Education; Advisory Board for Development of State Commission for Backward Classes; J&K Special Tribunal Gujjars and Bakerwals; Advisory Board for Development of with marginal staff; Managing Directors of all PSUs with Pahari Speaking People; J&K State Finance Commission; J&K marginal staff; J&K Commercial Taxes Tribunal with skeleton State Electricity Regulatory Commission; J&K State staff; Director Rural Sanitation; DFO, Photo Interpretation Commission for Women; J&K Police Housing Corporation; One Division (Forest Department) with marginal staff; J&K Khadi Man Forest Authority; Toshkhana Officer; J&K State Village and Industries Board; J&K State Social Welfare Board; Accountability Commission.J&K Housing Board; Chief Wildlife Warden; Chairman of the Committee for monitoring and ensuring fairness of tests Departments moving in camps: conducted by BOPEE; Chairman of the Committee for fixation of Fee structure of Professional Colleges in the State; Chief Director Family Welfare MCH and Immunization; Director Engineer Commercial and Survey Wing alongwith Driver; J&K Indian System of Medicines; Director Economics and Statistics; Academy of Art, Culture and Languages with 26 employees; Director Soil Conservation; Director Environment and Remote Director Handloom Development Department; Relief and Sensing; Director Sericulture; Director of Stationeries and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrant); Directorate of Office Supplies with marginal staff; Director Audit and Fisheries. Inspection; Director Horticulture (P&M); Director Handicrafts;

Epilogue NewsroomDirector Geology and Mining; Director Libraries; Director

aving setup a target of 1900 as the population of production for the year 2008-09 is 300 tonnes and for 2009-10

beekeepers for 2008-09 and 2200 for 2009-10 and with is 350 tonnes. The export of honey was 100 MTs in 2005-06, 100 Han existing 20000 number of the bee colonies in the in 2006-07, 150 in 2007-08 and the target export for 2008-09 is

valley, the Apiculture Development is expected to show an setup at 200 MTs and for 2009-10 is 250 MTs. Despite certain

upswing in its graph. limitations, Apiculture if pursued in systematic manner and

duly regulated by the people associated with it, could improve The honey production in the valley, as per records, is also the economy of a number of people. rising with 125 tonnes production registered in 2005-06,

215tonnes in 2006-07, 200 tonnes in 2007-08 and the targeted Epilogue Newsroom

Governor's men in Srinagar this winter

· H. H. Tyabji: November 20-30 November and December 21-31, 2008

· Dr. Sudhir S. Bloeria, December 1 to 10 and January 1 to 10, 2009.

· C. Phunsog, December 11 to 20 and January 11 to 20 2009.

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Apiculture Promises Handsome Foreign Exchange

Epilogue Ø 1 5× November 2008

N E W S W R A P

J&K STORIES

ith a total business of Rs. 21.70 billion, the 69377.35 lakhs, the Baramulla Central Cooperative Bank Cooperative Banks in Jammu and Kashmir have (BCCB) of Rs. 17847.79 lakhs and Anantnag Central Wwitnessed a sea change in their performance to Cooperative Bank (ACCB) has deposits of Rs. 11294.65 lakhs.

improve the lot of the financial health. The total business of the SCB, JCCB, BCCB and ACCB is Rs. 45217.00, Rs. 93765.00, Rs. 31761.77 and Rs. 22315.00 lakhs Cooperative Banks have earned the distinction of taking a lead respectively. The Devika Urban Bank has a total business of Rs. over all other nationalized banks in distribution of Kissan 1455.00 lakhs, the Anantnag Urban Bank of Rs. 1978.76 lakhs, Credit Cards (KCCs). As on March 31, 2008, 45687 KCCs worth the Citizen Cooperative Bank of Rs. 28692.00 lakhs and KAMCO Rs. 65.89 crore have been issued. Bank Sopore has total business of Rs. 2277.85 lakhs.

The Baramulla Central Cooperative Bank has issued KCCs With a total number of 207 branches, Cooperative Banks in the worth Rs. 25.30 crore while Jammu Central Cooperative Bank state give employment to 1617 persons. The Cooperative has issued KCCs amounting to Rs. 20.33 crore. The Baramulla Banks have attempted to remain apace with other Central Cooperative Bank has 66 per cent Credit Deposit Ratio nationalized banks in the matters of computerization and ATM in the state which is highest in the state.facilities.

The State Cooperative Bank (SCB) has deposits of Rs. 36444.42 Epilogue Newsroom lakhs, the Jammu Central Cooperative Bank (JCCB) of Rs.

he Valley of Kashmir, famously known world over as a streams, lofty snow bound peaks and flowers of diverse basket of flowers is catching up rapidly with varieties have been known worldwide to make Kashmir a Tproduction of flowers for commercial purposes as heaven in miniature, lets hope, it also plays its role in

well. adding to the prosperity of its people.

New and existing varieties of flowers having tremendous The last few years have witnessed a considerable surge in overseas and local market are being cultivated in various development of some world class gardens and floriculture parts of this beautiful valley for bringing in prosperity for centres in the valley. The “Tulip Garden and the Botanical the farmers. With new industries coming up that are based Gardens” on the banks of Dal Lake have besotted many a on flowers as raw material, the obsession for growing tourist who visited them and now it is the turn of liliums to flowers is on the high. glue them.With a total area of 168 hectares under cultivation for Among other centres, the “Model Floriculture Centre” at commercial floriculture in Kashmir, about 250 farm families

Nuner Ganderbal is one such centre which has became a are directly involved in this pursuit. The departments of

cynosure for many lovers of nature.Agriculture, Floriculture and Sheri-Kashmir University of

The centre is established over an area of 8.5 hectares of Agricultural Science and Technology of Kashmir is providing land and has successfully generated revenue of Rs 15 lakhs ample technical support resulting in the generation of the in 2006-07 and Rs 25 lakhs in 2007-08. About 3.92 lakhs of average farm income to Rs. 5000- 10,000 per kanal. Lilium bulbs were produced in 2006-07 and 5 lakh in 2007-In 2008, about 15 hectares of land were utilized for flower 08. Also 2.05 bulbs were distributed for plantation at various seed production, 28 for Gladioli cut flower production, 04 other places in 2006-07 and 3.5 lakhs bulbs in 2007-08. Also, for production of loose flowers, 16 for production of other 18.97 quintals of small bulbs were distributed for re-cut flowers and 01 hectares for production of cut flowers plantation during the year. The model floricultural centre is under cover. Similarly, 16 hectares of land utilized for expected to help in boosting the tourism of the state, production of flowering bulbs, 70 for production of aromatic thereby, generating more revenues.crops and 18 for production of nursery plants.

Epilogue NewsroomThe green meadows and pastures, lively springs and

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

At Rs. 21.70Bn Business Co-Op Banks Settings New Trend

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Flowers Enhancing Scenic Beauty, Boosting Economy


D I A L O G U E

SALMAN HAIDAR

India has long been seen as yet another developing

country with poor economy and faced with hundreds of

its internal and external problems. Where do you

locate the country at the global map today?

Such feeling about India at the international level is a

thing of past. Today country has come into the strengths

of its own and is commanding a greater respect world

over. An inspiration for many in the region, India is now

being seen as a vibrant success story, a key driver of

economy and a disciplined State. Its road in Asia is

evolving and the good feeling is that India is a country

capable of its defence and is not being seen as an

aggressive power.

People are now coming to us to collaborations and

partnerships. Our fast growing economy is the main area

of interest for many global powers. Many international

powerful groupings like ASEAN are inviting India to

partner with them. They want us in their quest for

growth. The general perception about India is a desirable

partner in economic growth and in broader political

association.

Does Indo-US Nuclear deal make India more powerful at

international level?

Of course, it does. But we should understand that it is

India's well recognized power and strength at

international level which makes powers like US to partner

with us. It is not the (nuclear) deal which makes India

powerful (in the particular context) it is the powerful

India which attracts US for mutually beneficial

partnership. That is the strength of India in world today.

Agreed, India has emerged as a powerful State. Does

this status influence international perception on

India’s former Foreign Secretary Salman Haidar was recently in Jammu to attend a conference. In an exclusive interview to Epilogue, Haidar says India’s Foreignpolicy has put the country in global power league. Excerpts :

India Is A Power

To Reckon With Internationally


D I A L O G U E

SALMAN HAIDAR

stands are friends and others not so). at international level. India's stand on Kashmir? India's troubles especially with

Pakistan, with or without Kashmir as a How do you look at the Indo-Pak Well, this has to be seen in a wider cause, have been dampening factor relations post-Musharraf? context and evolutionary manner. and would assume quite a prime space

T h e r e w e r e a t t e m p t s t o in diplomatic activities. As long the

internationalise the issue when There is a policy of continuity with dispute remains the fear of flare ups

Kashmir was taken to the United change and both partners are moving in with old triggers continues.

Nations. Efforts were made by many that direction. General Musharraf and

global powers to dictate a solution for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

Kashmir. Particularly, America, Europe developed a strong capacity to talk to

and China etc always tried to play an each other which is an asset for any

interventionist role. However, of late, course of dialogue to continue in

there is a global understanding that future. Pakistan has a lot of internal

Kashmir is purely a bilateral issue problems which we are well aware of.

between India and Pakistan and should The experience is that a sustained

be allowed to the two countries to dialogue initiative has always suffered

settle. Technically, the matter is still in its long term continuity. However,

before the United Nations but there are the indications coming from new

no international attempts to civilian government in Pakistan are

intervene. encouraging and promising. Hopes are

there for a stronger course of dialogue.

Why this change of mindset at

international level? Does this stems Cross-Line of Control trade between

out of growing diplomatic strengths two parts of Jammu and Kashmir is

of India. being given a lot of importance in

context of peace process. Do you see

this road leading to some mutually India's diplomatic strength is just one aspired destination? part of this story. The fact, however, is

that both India and Pakistan have

demonstrated by their engagement in a Of course yes and this development

meaningful dialogue that whatever deserve the importance it is getting.

issues are there they are between the Instead of being distant, India and

two only and they have the will and Pakistan need to inch closer to each

courage to resolve their issues other. And when Kashmir can become

bilaterally. With their engagement, the a bridge between both, this

process may be gradual, but the development carries a lot of

atmosphere in South Asia has largely importance and meaning. There are The good development, of late, is that changed for the better. many areas of cooperation. For all diplomatic roads going out of or

example, Pakistan should have stakes One can see Kashmir has long coming into India are not through in Iran's gas pipeline to India. These influenced India's foreign policy. Does Kashmir. This has released more issues of trade and transit are of this factor still continue? diplomatic space. Growing warmth and mutual importance benefit and an urge of peace and cooperation should be explored further to Not any more. Disputes with between India and Pakistan has minimise the irritants. neighbours are always cause of concern allowed India to use its diplomatic

and often influence foreign policy energies on other issues like economic

- Zafar Choudharymatters (countries which endorse your cooperation and political associations

India troubles especially with

Pakistan, with or without

Kashmir as a cause, have been

dampening factor and would

assume quite a prime space in

diplomatic activities. As long the

dispute remains the fear of flare

ups with old triggers continues.

The good development, of late, is

that all diplomatic roads going

out of or coming into India are

not through Kashmir. This has

released more diplomatic space.

Growing warmth and an urge of

peace and cooperation between

India and Pakistan has allowed

India to use its diplomatic

energies on other issues like

economic cooperation and

political associations at

international level.


Zafar Choudhary

The Challenge Of 2008

I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

FACT FILE ELECTIONS IN J&K

J&K

Six years after New Delhi restored its credibility internationally by holding free and fair elections in Jammu and

Kashmir, this time there is a challenge of legitimacy. Elections to Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly have always

been a matter of keen international interest as much as the Kashmir issue is. The secessionists and their supporters reject

elections as farce and charade as they call for referendum to determine status of Kashmir. Though this is not a case in

Jammu region where elections are welcomed as a festival and are contested keenly. With elections in Kashmir, New Delhi

and mainstream political parties within the state seek to answer the referendum demand. More participation in elections

means louder answer to the separatists. As state gets into full poll mode, the challenges of legitimacy are clearly much

higher than ever. Even if the separatist campaign of boycott fails to have impact (which is unlikely) there are other factors

also for disillusionment of voters. For their credibility and fairness the 2002 elections had raised the public expectations

in democratic process and to a certain height. At one stage people, particularly in Kashmir Valley, had come to realize that

along with separatist agenda mainstream politics too is worth practicing to the extent of having a government for running

day to day processes of life. However, the coalition government –the outcome of 2002 elections –was the worst experiment

for the people in almost all regions. Not that the previous government was too keen and clean but post-2002 public stakes

in the government were far higher than ever. A dirty competitive politics within the coalition partners left very little for the

public to look at the good that may have happened during their regime.

Phase

1 (

2 (Nov 23)

3 (Nov 30)

4 (Dec 7)

5 (Dec 13)

6 (Dec 17)

7 (Dec 24)

Nov 17)

Assembly Segments

Gurez, Bandipora, Sonawari, Nobra, Leh, Kargil, Zanskar, Surankote, Mendhar, Poonch

Rajouri, Darhal, Nowshera, Kalakote, Dangan, Ganderbal

Karnah, Kupwara, Lolab, Handwara, Langate

Uri, Rafiabad, Sopore, Sangrama, Baramulla, Gulmarg, Pattan, Chandoora, Budgam, Beerwah, Khansahib, Char-e-Sharief, Gulabgarh, Reasi, Goold-Arnas, Udhampur, Chenani, Ramnagar

Tral, Pampora, Pulwama, Rajpora, Wachi, Shopian, Bani, Basholi, Kathua, Billwar, Hiranagar

Noorabad, Kulgam, Home Shalibugh, Shangus, Bijbehra, Pahalgam, Kishtwar, Inderwal, Doda, Bhaderwah, Ramba, Banihal, Devsar, Doru, Kokernag

Hazratbal, Zadibal, Idgah, Khanyar, Habba Kadal, Amira Kadal, Sonawar, Batmalloo, Samba, Vijaypur, Nagrota, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu-East, Jammu-West, Bishnah, RS Pura, Suchetgarh, Marh, Raipur-Domana, Akhnoor, Chhamb

Total Number of Seats 75 Percentage of Total seats

J&K National Conference 68 90.66

Praja Parishad 05 06.66

Harijan Mandal 01 01.33

Independent 01 01.33

Party Position : 1957 Assembly Elections


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

ammu and Kashmir is under direct rule (Governor's which turned the Valley into a bloody battle ground as it

administration) since July 10, after the fall of continues 20 years later. It is understood that Kashmir issue

Ghulam Nabi Azad led coalition Government as key is so complex that a resolution can not be found in a single

ally the Peoples Democratic Party had pulled out a summit meet or in a single war. There has to be a sustained Jfortnight earlier on Amarnath land row. Elections to peace process involving a credible dialogue between New

J&K legislative assembly were due to be held by the beginning Delhi, Islamabad and people of Kashmir to steadily move

of October and a new assembly was required to be in place by towards a resolution. There have been many such initiatives

November 20. When everyone was keenly looking at the next in the past but the one launched by then Indian Prime

move, the Election Commission was clearly seen in a double Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee with General Pervez Musharraf

whammy on whether to hold polls now or put off for some six of Pakistan has so far been most credible and sustainable.

months. Risks were both way clear. Holding elections now with The courage and will with which Vajpayee ensured free and

dismal public participation could have been an adverse fair elections in Jammu and Kashmir in 2002 had emerged as

publicity internationally and putting them off a rather serious a sustainer of the peace process as people had, largely, their

embarrassment. The message was clear –things are not quite faith in democratic instruments restored. Six years later,

in control in Kashmir Valley. When two main regional parties there is a crisis of legitimacy. The Kashmir Coordination

–the National Conference and Peoples Democratic Party –put Committee, an amalgam of all separatist parties, Bar

their foot down it was almost concluded that elections were Association, trade lobbies etc, has drawn up an elaborate

being putt off till early next year. However, on October 19, the schedule of protests, demonstrations and shutdown which

Election Commission took all by surprise when it announced a runs almost parallel with the election schedule. All eyes

staggered seven-phase election schedule beginning October focused on Kashmir have little to do with nature of the

24 (notification), the first phase on November 17 and last government after elections. What exactly they look at is the

phase on December 24. This is the longest election exercise voter turn out and public response to elections. This time

ever held in Jammu and Kashmir. Counting of votes will begin even militant violence can not be blamed for low turnout.

on December 28 and the new government is likely to be in The most bizarre feature of this present five-month long

place in New Year eve. agitation in Kashmir has been the fact that no role of gun has

been seen anywhere in mobilizing or intimidating the public.

Hours after the Election Commission announced poll What is at stake? schedule, the separatists, prominently Mohammad Yaseen

Malik of JKLF announced a schedule for boycott campaign. “I While announcing elections, the Chief Election

appeal the Chief Election Commissioner of India to Commissioner N Gopalaswami said, “we are taking a risk”.

understand and endorse our right of campaign for not to His statement with political overtones though does not

vote…this is also democratic”, said Malik. Despite veiled sound good from a constitutional authority but the

criticism from democracy campaigners and civil rights observation Gopalaswami certainly reflects upon the ground

activists, the government has launched a crackdown on anti-realities. Till 2002, Jammu and Kashmir elections always

election campaign and started bundling separatists in the remained a subject of criticism within and outside India.

lock-ups. If there is still a poor turnout even in absence of There has been a bad history of rigging elections and fixing

gun and strict crackdown by the government, it can be an governments on whims and fancies of New Delhi in clear

embarrassing moment for India even as the peace process is violation of the peoples' verdict. Situation in Kashmir was

thrown back to square one. never normal but it was the blatant rigging in 1987 elections

Total Number of Seats Kashmir Region Jammu Ladakh

of seats (Total seats) Region

J&K National Conference 42 24 02

Praja Parishad - 05 -

Harijan Mandal - 01 -

Independent - 01 -

Region-Wise Party Position in 1957 Assembly Election


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

state Congress president is oter turn out being V a Kashmir face and the a n y o n e ' s g u e s s , party is banking heavily on Kashmir Valley is up for him for securing some most interesting electoral seats in Valley as it does battle of the times. In not see quite promising 1987 and 1996, the prospects in Jammu region National Conference being this time. Prof Saif-ud-Din lone player in the Valley Soz, the Union Water had field day. In 2002, a Resources Minister, is state tough competition from Congress president and Peoples Democratic Party, incharge of the election a first time player, saw NC committee. falling from grace and not

without humiliations as it

veterans including the Nat iona l Conference

C h i e f M i n i s t e r i a l seems to have learnt some

candidate Omar Abdullah lessons from the past. In

lost to very little known 2002, Omar Abdullah, who

faces mostly first timers. was anointed as party

NC got 19 seats and PDP 16 president a year before

in the Valley. This time it is –the third straight in the

a tough competition not hierarchy –was projected

only between NC and PDP as Ch ie f M in i s ter ia l

but also for both as there candidate. He had the

are new players and obvious inabilities of

internal dissidents in the taking along the veterans

fray. Congress always had who once worked under

a limited constituency in grandfather, then father

the Valley. Last time it and were now required to

bagged five seats and this play second fiddle to him.

time it has to be seen His anointment as party

whether it can retain the p re s i den t and t hen

previous tally as the party p ro jec t i on a s Ch ie f

has been worst sufferer of Ministerial candidate was

image on Amarnath land all the developments in

row in both regions. The such quick succession that

8109 POLLING STATIONS

Jammu and Kashmir has 8109 polling stations for 87 assembly

segments. The maximum number of 999 polling booths will be

established in Jammu district while as the newly-carved out

Ganderbal district will have the lowest number of 142 polling

stations. As far as the constituency with the maximum polling

stations is concerned, Leh with 183 stations tops the list while as

Gurez has the lowest number of 25 polling booths.

In Leh Assembly segment, Polling Station 181 – Anlay Fu is the

highest polling station situated at an altitude of 5,000 metres.

Polling Station No: 10-Sunudo, in Nobra Assembly segment, will

be the smallest polling station having 10 voters only.

As many as 603 polling stations will be situated at an altitude of

8,001 to 13,000 ft. with the maximum of 183 located in Leh

constituency, followed by 158 in Kargil constituency.

As many as 196 polling stations will fall in the altitude of 7,001 to

8,000 ft. with Poonch Haveli constituency having the highest

number of 32 polling stations followed by 25 in Kokernag

constituency. Shopian constituency will have maximum of 89

polling stations and Wachi constituency 84 polling stations at

height of 6,001 to 7,000 ft. A maximum of 3,606 polling stations

will be at an altitude of 5,001 to 6,000 ft. with Batamaloo

constituency having the largest number of 126 booths followed

by Sopore with 115. Another 2,829 polling stations will be

located below 5,000 ft. with Gandhinagar constituency having

maximum of 162 and Jammu West constituency 163 polling

stations.

VALLEY SCENARIO Even poor turn out is not bad idea


Contested 41 54.66

Uncontested 34 45.33

1962 Assembly Elections : Contested and Uncontested


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

neither he nor the party cadres were able candidates had already been asked to fan independents switched over to the

to comprehend and make their heads out to their constituencies without Congress and most of the remaining

clear. Six years later, Omar appears to be wasting anytime. PDP wanted to send broke far in their individual identities.

little mature and his ears put down to the across a message that it was in mood to Hakeem still grew up the PDF and is now

ground. The elder cadre in the party has contest elections in the prevailing fielding candidates in central and north

been given a role and honourable scenario but a decision to this effect had Kashmir constituencies. His men may not

position. He has chosen to take backseat to be finally taken to avoid unscrupulous be in a position to win but most of them

and Farooq has been projected as Chief (read NC) to take advantage of a clear being PDP dissidents may influence the

Ministerial candidate. In a shrewd field. So, the final announcement came results unexpectedly.

manner a word has been out in the public on October 28.

by partymen and Abdullah sympathizers J&K Democratic Party has been floated in bureaucracy that the National Poor turn out is though a potentially by one of PDP founders and former Conference is being trusted by New Delhi dangerous disadvantage for the PDP, but Minister Ghulam Hassan Mir. He is yet to to lead the race. With a history of New it has very little to loose in the urban name any face who can actually win from Delhi's fixed up governments, such words areas where poll boycott is usually anywhere but again his efforts are erode have the potential of generating a effective. PDP has carved out a rural PDP base and become a power equalizer positive wave. base but the field is not free of lobby after elections. The Congress is

challenges. believed to have decided fielding a

Poor voter turn out is always an NC candidate against Mir who is equally in

advantage. Being the largest and oldest touch with National Conference. Other challengers in Valley's electoral party in state, NC has its committed landscape are Peoples Democratic cadres everywhere. In Valley NC is the Forum, J&K Democratic Party, the CPI(M) has one seat in 1996 assembly and only party with a formidable urban base CPI(M), a newly emerged alliance of two in 2002. Party is not expected to which is still a dream for other parties. In displaced Kashmir Pandits, the Awami improve its tally beyond this number but case of a poor turn out, NC's committed National Conference and more than 20 all three parties –NC, PDP and Congress cadres may be a few dozens to couple of potential independent contestants. –are ready to spare the seats where hundreds, still turn up to polling booths CPI(M) contests. The race is all about and that is where the party enjoys keeping the potential opponents at bay The Peoples Democratic Forum had come unparalleled advantage. and securing an ally for post-poll up under the leadership of Hakeem

scenario. Mohammad Yaseen as a rag-tag alliance For ten days after announcement of poll of over a dozen independent winners schedules, the Peoples Democratic Party after 2002 elections. Though they One of the most interesting features of played with an interesting suspense on this year's elections in Kashmir Valley is claimed to neutralizers of friction its poll participation. At the end of daily the overwhelming participation of between major alliance partners PDP meetings at residence of the Mufti's the Kashmir Pandits. This is a good sign as and Congress but eventually emerged as party had to say only one thing, “we are the displaced community may get a a power lobby. The PDF therefore yet to take a decision on our poll proper representation in the assembly. managed to get eight ministerial berths participation”. These statements were But unfortunately, the way Kashmiri in Mufti government. Later least five being made when most of the shortlisted Pandits are preparing for elections may





1962 Assembly Elections : Party Position


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I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

not help any of the candidates. Before

their migration, the Kashmiri Pandits

had a significant vote share in at least

13 assembly constituencies in the

Valley. Their deciding factor only grew

after migration as in view of poor

turnout in the Valley, the migrant

voters had the key to fortune of

contestants. While they did not chose

to contest elections even in the voting

they did not take a keen interest.

Raman Matoo was the only KP

legislator in 2002 and his father-in-law

PL Handoo in 1996. This time,

however, the KPs are showing an

overwhelming interest in elections

and are fielding candidates of their

own. Unfortunately there is no

consensus in the community and upto

half a dozen candidates are jumping

into fray in each constituency. This

may mar prospects of anyone of them

winning from anywhere.

Awami National Conference of former

maverick Chief Minister GM Shah is in

the poll battle first time. Shah is

brother-in-law of Dr Farooq Abdullah.

He is known better for his 1984

adventure when he toppled the Farooq

government with Congress support.

Though Shah is aging, his son Muzaffar is

leading campaign and wide Khaleda

(Farooq's sister) is likely to be one the

20 contestants the party is planning to

field. Few months back Shah had a

meeting with the Prime Minister

Manmohan Singh signaling to the home

constituency that he is still a power to

reckon with.

he political landscape of Jammu two and half years later when agitation Tregion is not quite the same as it was broke out on Amarnath land row, the

some four or five months back. The two- Congress stood as the worst sufferer of

month long agitation on Amarnath land discrimination campaign. There were two

row has left the region polarized but with components involved –the Sangh Parivar

announcement of elections there are accused the Congress of hurting Hindu

some positive signs of resilience and sentiments by revoking Amarnath land

restoration of the social fabric and transfer order and the very revocation of

political order. order was projected as undermining the

sentiments of the people of Jammu. Lead players in the region are Congress, Congress was pushed to the wall and its BJP, National Conference and Panthers leaders ran for cover. Seen in that Party. Of late, Bahujan Samaj Party too perspective the Congress is up for biting has made significant inroads and the dust but still things are not quite gloomy Peoples Democratic Party is up for a for the party. significant competition at some half a

dozen constituencies and may even win a BJP tried to make maximum out of the

couple of seats. Jammu agitation and it had to be like this

as entire campaign was managed by the Congress had contested the 2002 Sangh Parivar. Though the party regained elections on an agenda which was not its foothold by aggressive revival of the expected from a national political party Hindutva sentiment in at least five out of of its stature. The party endorsed that ten districts of Jammu region but BJP has the Jammu region has been discriminated no more remained the lone custodian of against by all government in past to keep this vote bank. Shiv Sena, Kranti Dal, the Kashmir constituency pleased. The Jammu State Morcha and some slogan did really work but it had to independent leaders who were active backfire soon. Congress won 15 seats in during the agitation are all in the field the region (against 8 in 1996) and later seeking a seat in the legislative assembly saw five independents falling in its kitty. and a seat sharing pact is very unlikely. Under the coalition arrangement PDP was This multilateral division of vote bank given first term to lead government and directly helps the Congress in those in November 2002, Ghulam Nabi Azad of constituencies where BJP and its Congress created a history of sorts by ideologically compatible outfits have a becoming first Chief Minister who was foothold. born and brought up in Jammu region.

Even arch opponents like BJP described it National Conference though has a

as moment of glory for Jammu. However, significant presence in all constituencies

JAMMU SCENARIO

Truly competitive election

Total Seats Kashmir Jammu Ladakh Total

J&K National Conference 42 26 02 70

Praja Parishad - 03 - 3

Independent - 02 - 2

1962 Assembly Elections : Party Position Region-Wise


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I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

of Jammu region but it is much energy in making a

in the districts of Rajouri, statewide presence for

Poonch, Doda, Kishtwar, which the party is yet to

Ramban and Reasi where grow.

party has a stronghold. In A new entrant in the most of these constitu-electoral landscape of encies the party faces a Jammu is Bahujan Samaj direct contest with Party. BSP has four seats Congress while in a couple in 1996 and its tally fell of segments in Rajouri and down to only one seat in Poonch, the Peoples 2002. Few months later Democratic Party is in a its lone MLA joined the formidable position. coalition government as Ticket distribution is Minister and later always a problem for all switched its loyalties to parties in twin border the Peoples Democratic districts of Rajouri and Party. After its Utter Poonch where caste Pradesh experiment of polarization between social engineering, BSP Gujjars and Paharis is redrew its Jammu plan unprecedented. A history and posed a challenge to of elections in these two t h e C o n g r e s s , districts (seven constitue-p a r t i c u l a r l y i n ncies) suggests that the constituencies where contest is often between Dalit vote is significant. two castes and not parties. Jammu region has seven

Panthers Party improved constituencies reserved

its tally from one in 1996 for Scheduled Tribes. Till

to four in 2002. After recently, the BSP was

National Conference and well positioned but

Peoples Democrat ic internal bickering and

Party, Panthers Party of split in the party on

Bhim Singh is the only election eve has put it

regional outfit with a on a weak pitch. Recent

significant and growing resignation of its state

base. The party could president and joining

have improved its tally National Conference is

f u r the r i n ensu ing seen as a moral crasher

elections but its leader for the cadres and

Bhim Singh puts in too voters.

64, 97,593 VOTERS

The total electorate in the state is 64, 97,593 including 33, 52,147 male voters and 31, 45,446 female voters. Jammu district comprising 11 constituencies has the highest electorate of 9, 43,389 including 4,78,545 male and 4,64,844 female voters while Leh district comprising two assembly segments has the lowest number of 74,396 voters including 37,623 male and 36,773 female voters. Gandhinagar assembly segment has the highest total electorate of 1,52,100 with the maximum of 78,663 male and 73,437 female voters. Nobra constituency in Leh district has the lowest electorate of 11,863 with the minimum of 5,943 male and 5,920 female voters.The Srinagar district has 8 constituencies with 5,57,265 voters including 2,88,984 male and 2,68,281 female electors. The Kupwara district comprising five assembly constituencies has an electorate of 3,41,004 voters including 1,77,860 male and 1,63,144 female voters. The Baramulla district spread over seven assembly segments has an electorate of 5,18,215 including 2,68,347 male and 2,49,868 female voters. The Bandipora district covers three assembly constituencies with an electorate of 1,86,069 including 96,848 male and 89,221 female voters. The newly created district of Ganderbal includes two constituencies with a total electorate of 1, 37,495 including 71,336 male and 66,159 female voters. The five assembly segments of Budgam district comprise 3, 83,914 electors including 1,98,815 male and 1, 85,099 female voters.The Pulwama district has four assembly segments and newly created districts of Shopian and Kulgam have two and four segments, respectively. The Pulwama district has total of 2, 92,959 voters including 1, 51,635 male voters while Shopian has 1, 39,475 voters including 67,173 female voters. The Kulgam district has a total of 2, 83,733 electorate with 1,47,449 male voters. The Anantnag district spread over six constituencies has 4, 20,534 electors including 2, 17,249 male and 2, 03,285 female voters.The Kargil district has two segments with 78,117 voters including 38,770 male and 39,347 female voters.


Contested 22 29.33

Uncontested 53 70.66

1967 Assembly Elections : Contested and Uncontested


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I N F O C U S

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etween 2002 and 2008, politics in Ladakh became a part of the National Congress could win all 26 BLadakh has taken a full circle. 2002 democratic India, people of Ladakh seats. However after National

was a milestone in Ladakhi politics have always wished to have direct links Conference government was formed at

when the local units of all political with New Delhi and accordingly the the state in 1996, it used all tactics to

parties were dissolved to float a joint leaders of this trans-Himalayan enclave destabilize and defunct the newly

platform sending across a clear message have demanded different arrangements constituted Hill Council. Dr. Farooq

that creation of Union Territory from time such as North Eastern Abdullah's government had been very

dominates the election agenda in Leh. Frontier Area (NEFA) type of reluctant to further empower the Hill

Soon after elections, not only the local administration, Central Administration, Council. When time approached for

units of regional and national parties and the Union Territory status to assembly elections in 2002 Leh's all

were revived but also the winning preserve Ladakh's unique cultural, political leaders came on a single

candidates established their affiliations linguistic and the geo-climatic platform by disbanding their respective

with non-Ladakhi parties. Six years conditions. With its unique conditions parties and formed the Ladakh Union

later, the Union Territory agenda is once Ladakh is like a different country to the Territory Font (LUTF). The newly

again back. Unlike the 2002 scenario of rest of Jammu & Kashmir. formed party succeeded to elect Mr.

Ladakh Union Territory Front (LUTF) Nawang Rigzin Jora and Sonam

versus none, in 2008 it is going to be 'all Wangchuk Norbu (Pinto) unopposed for When the negligence towards Ladakh versus LUTF and NC combine'. the State assembly from Leh and Nubra continued for the by the then state

constituencies respectively. governments, the Ladakh Buddhist

Ladakh had been an independent Association launched an agitation 1989

kingdom for about eight and a half in support of UT demand. Three But the much hyped LUTF soon detected

centuries until it was invaded and made Buddhist youth were killed during the with some cracks as one day the Bhartya

a part of Jammu and Kashmir by Dogra agitation. The agitation was suspended Janata Party (BJP) was found restored.

king Gulab Singh's army led by General only when and the then Prime Minister The members of the LUTF previously

Zorawar Singh in 1834. People of Ladakh Mr. Rajiv Gandhi intervened and belonged to different political parties

have been very proud to be Indians right proposed the Hill Council status on the with different ideologies seemed to

from the day when Ladakh became a pattern of the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill have found it difficult to adjust with one

part of the Indian Union following the Council. Subsequently a tripartite another. The major split in the LUTF

declaration of an independent India. agreement was signed by the Center occurred when the Indian National

Government, State Government and the Congress restored its office in 2004 by

LBA and the UT demand was suspended. installing Tsering Samphel, who at However all leaders of Ladakh, present is the member at the ST/SC irrespective of their association to commission, as its president. In 2005 different political parties today, have The Ladakh Au tonomous H i l l the third LAHDC Elections were held always voiced to have separate Ladakh Development Council was finally between the Indian National Congress from Jammu and Kashmir. Ever since constituted in 1995 and the Indian

LADAKH SCENARIO

Six years after LUTF versus none, it is now all versus LUTF




BJS 03 04.00


1967 Assembly Elections : Party Position


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

and LUTF. LUTF registered a thumping LUTF was a great platform if it was used Conference as well as Bhartiya Janta

majority by sweeping 24 seats out of to strive for common interests. Rather Party. LUTF was formed on the plank of

26. Thuspstan Chhewang, MP Lok there has been narrow minded politics Union Territory demand, NC is a party

Sabha from Ladakh also contested the within LUTF which all Ladakh knows for Greater Autonomy and BJP seeks

Hill Council election from Lower Leh very well today. LUTF was formed to abrogation of Article 370 which gives

constituency and won by a landslide save Ladakh from political parties which J&K special status. This mix of three is a

margin. When the LUTF-led Council support solutions like Greater unique paradigm. The challengers on

was formed Chhewang continued as the Autonomy for the State but after the the front are Congress in Leh and Nobra

MP Ladakh and vacated Lower Leh recent LAHDC election in Kargil, LUTF and Zanskar and independents in Kargil.

constituency for a re-election. joined hands with National Conference Peoples Democratic Party and Panthers

Meanwhile people started blaming LUTF which can be seen as a politics of power. Party have for first time fielded their

for its ineffective Hill Council and Two councilors who belonged to LUTF in candidates in Ladakh region.

secondly for having no strategy to strive the Leh LAHDC have recently joined the

for the UT demand. The by-election for Congress Party on account of difference WITH INPUTS: the Lower Leh constituency was held they developed with the leaders of Basheer Ahmed in Baramulla, Mir after one and half year of the LUTF Hill LUTF. Javed in Srinagar, Tsewang Rigzin in Council in power and LUTF lost to Leh, Sheraz in Kargil and KD Maini in Congress and Congress Party registered The LUTF has now entered into a tacit Poonch a landslide victory. u n d e r s t a n d i n g w i t h N a t i o n a l

The University of California, BerkeleyInvites applications for the 2009-2010

S.V. Ciriacy-Wantrup Postdoctoral Fellowships in Natural Resource Economics and Political Economy

The S.V. Ciriacy-Wantrup Postdoctoral Fellowships in Natural Resource Economics and

Political Economy will be awarded for the 2009-2010 academic year to support advanced

research at the University of California, Berkeley.

For the purposes of this fellowship, natural resources are defined broadly to include

environmental resources. The fellowship encourages, but is not limited to, policy-oriented

research. Applications are open to scholars from any social science discipline and related

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proposals whose orientation is broadly institutional and/or historical, and which are

conceptually and theoretically innovative. Proposals with a primarily statistical or

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Application deadline is December 8, 2008.

For more information, please visit: http://research.chance.berkeley.edu/ciriacy/


J&K


......

J&K ELECTIONS

Answers To Some Most Frequently Asked Questions

I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

RISK FACTOR last four months. The electoral space that had been gradually

extended since 2002 elections has shrunk now. The separatist Elections to Jammu and Kashmir organizations which were finding themselves irrelevant have Legislative Assembly have been gained the central space. In this context, it is very clear that announced at a time when state is the level of electoral participation would be quite low. Before passing through most unusual the situation changed, it was expected that there might be circumstances. Fact that Election more than 60% voter turnout in the Valley, however, now the Commission had to take such a long voter turnout might be quite low. The factor of poll boycott time in deciding schedule and the might work effectively. Interestingly, earlier this year, Mirwaiz announcement did not come without Omer Farooq was quite hesitant about giving the call of poll a “risk factor” observation of Chief boycott, since he was not sure whether that call would be E l e c t i o n C o m m i s s i o n e r N headed or not – so much euphoria about electoral politics was Gopalaswami underlines prevalence at that time. However, now there might by voluntary boycott of an unsuitable atmosphere. When and separatist organizations may not have to work very hard the timing of elections was debated for it there were two main points of

consideration: early elections with

poor turnout a bad publicity and Despite the chances of lower voter turnout, the Election deferred elections a bad news for Commission has taken the decision to go ahead with the India internationally. How do you election. It must certainly not be an easy decision and the look at the legitimacy and credibility Commission must have taken into consideration all the options of exercise at this stage and under and possibilities. Not holding the election would have meant these circumstances? keeping the State under the Governor's rule and after the

expiry of six months of this rule, imposing President's rule. The

absence of democratic politics and a total political vacuum of ertainly this must have been one of the most difficult the mainstream politics would also not have been healthy for decisions for the Election Commission to take. In this state. Cnormal circumstances as these were before the month

of June this year, the scheduling of elections would have been

no problem at all. The situation was very conducive for The 'risk factor' is there, because of the low participation, the

elections at that time. Since May 2007, election rallies were credibility of the election might be lower. This is certainly

problematic in the context of the 2002 elections which had being organized and were attended by large number of regained credibility for electoral process. Legitimacy of the people. However, situation has changed dramatically during

An expert on electoral politics and co-author of book ‘Elections in Jammu & Kashmir’, Prof REKHA CHOWDHARY responds to questions compiled by Epilogue Editorial Desk. An internationalliy recognised authority on J&K affairs, Rekha teaches political science at University of Jammu


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

electoral process or the lack of it is certainly an important 2002 elections. With the exception of a few constituencies of

issue for the politics of Kashmir. Many of the problems of the northern Kashmir, where few big rallies by the 'proxy'

state are linked with the lack of democratic space, in general candidates of People's Conference (a well-known part of the

and the lower credibility of the electoral process, in separatist amalgam, the APHC) were organized, normal

particular. There is a strong perception, especially in Kashmir, electioneering could not take place in the Valley. In fact, after

that elections have been manipulated and the governments the first phase of elections, the violence was intensified and

have been imposed from the Centre. 2002 Assembly election not much of campaigning could be possible.

went a long way in reversing this impression. That was a very

important exercise from the point of view of restoring However, during the last few years, not only the space for confidence of the Kashmiris in the electoral process. Held mainstream politics was expanded but the electoral politics under the international glare, this election was seen to be was reinvigorated. Though elections were due in September relatively fairer than earlier elections. The peculiarity of the 2008, but the political parties had started preparing for the 2002 Assembly election was that unlike the 1996 Assembly elections as early as May 2007. Since that time, there have election, it was not held under the supervision of the security been rallies after rallies organized by the political parties. One forces and there were not many allegations of coercive voting. year before the election was due, it seemed that election time The voter turnout was uneven but whatever the level of had come and the political parties had started their election voting, it was quite voluntary. There were constituencies campaign. where the voter turnout was less than 5% (Amirakadal,

Habbakadal, Batamaloo, Khanyar, Idgah, Zadibal) and there It was therefore expected that the 2008 elections would not were constituencies with higher than 60% voter turnout only become more participatory but would also contribute to (Gurez, Uri, Karnah, Charar-e-Sharief). Despite the average enhancing the credibility of the electoral and the mainstream 30% voter turnout in the Valley, there were districts in north political processes. In the present situation, the political Kashmir which saw reasonable voter turnout (53% in Kupwara, reversal is going to affect not only the legitimacy of the 46% in Bugam and 40% in Baramulla. electoral process but also that of the government that would

be formed after that. Electoral exercise, on the whole, was seen to be quite

legitimate and this had the implication of giving legitimacy to STAGERRED SCHEDULE the elected government during the period 2002-2008. So much Look at the schedule of elections, it is was the positive impact of the 2002 elections, that the too staggered. Except for the large electoral and the mainstream political space was quite states like Utter Pradesh, elections in extended in the period after that. During the by-polls which seven phases are hardly held to any were held in 2006 in the three constituencies of the Valley the assembly in India. Besides weather, voter turnout was as high as 76% for Rafiabad, 69% for Pattan do you see a strategy in schedule as, and 64% for Sangrama. in case of Kashmir Valley, areas under

The expansion of the electoral space was visible not only from relatively lesser influence of the higher voter turnout but also from other processes in the separatist sentiment have been mainstream politics. Till 1996, the legitimacy of the listed in first phase? mainstream politics was so affected that it was not possible for

the political leaders to hold any meeting in Kashmir. In fact, lections in Jammu and Kashmir have to be spread in there was no campaigning in the Valley during this election. various phases for the simple reason that it is not a Campaigning could not be properly organized even during the Enormal electoral exercise. It is a militancy infested


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

state and the State has to prepare for meeting the challenge process was started in the first Assembly election when all

of violence during the elections. Even during 2002, election but two seats were returned unopposed. During this election

was spread in four phases. There was intensified violence there was en masse rejection of nomination papers of the

during that elections. There were large scale killings of only opposition party, the Praja Parishad on trivial grounds.

political activists, candidates, security forces and even The trend of rejection of the nomination papers and

civilians. There were as many as 172 militant attacks and 115 uncontested returns continued through the next few

security persons and 159 civilians were killed. Among those elections. Though the phenomenon of uncontested returns

killed were two candidates, Sheikh Abdul Rehman who was did not continue after the fourth general election, but

an independent candidate and Mushtaq Ahmed Lone who elections were seen to be manipulated in other ways.

belonged to the NC and was then the Law Minister of the The contested legitimacy of the elections has always remained State. problematic. However there were well known exceptions like

1977 Assembly elections. Even the 1983 Assembly election had NOTIONAL IMPORTANCE some credibility. It is certainly true that the legitimacy of

Seen from Indian perspective, election or the lack of it certainly had its reflection on the

particularly with reference to New 'Kashmir problem'. A credible electoral exercise like 1977 had

Delhi's handling of Kashmir issue, the impact of lowering the level of discontent in Kashmir.

elections to J&K legislative assembly However, an election perceived to be highly rigged like the

have always been considered and 1987 Assembly election had the severe implication of throwing

projected as an exercise which goes the State into the phase of militancy and separatism.

far beyond basic purpose for electing

a government. Please comment on Since 2002, the issue of legitimacy of elections has

the legitimacy of elections and their assumed new meanings. In fact, 2002 Assembly election

relations with the 'National Interest'. was seen as a very big confidence building measure for the

lectoral process, or to that extent any political

process related with Jammu and Kashmir, has Egenerally been seen in the context of the 'national

interest'. Electoral manipulations, for which this state has

been infamous, have generally been justified in the name of

national interest. Right from the first election, the electoral

process has faced the crisis of legitimacy. There has been

manipulation of the electoral process through various

mechanisms. For instance, during the first four Assembly

elections, there was the phenomenon of uncontested

returns. The elections were so manipulated by the ruling

party that it could manage huge majorities within the

Assembly by suppressing opposition of all kinds. Hence,

there was no competition at all, and the candidates

belonging to the ruling party would be declared elected

without having to go through the electoral process. The

In 2002 Assembly Elections, National Conference President

Omar Abdullah was party’s Chief Ministerial Candidate. He

contested election from family’s pocketborough seat of

Ganderbal in Central Kashmir and lost to a little known Qazi

Mohammad Afzal of Peoples Democratic Party. A biggest

humiliation for Abdullah dynasty so far.


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

people of the State, especially the Valley. The 2002 election legitimacy of elections. But much depends upon how the

took place at a time when the Government of India had electoral exercise unfolds. It will have to be seen as to how the

started preparing for the comprehensive peace process. political parties are able to meet the present situation. Will

Seeking to restore the trust of people of Kashmir in the they be able to hold the electoral campaign, will there be

Indian State as well its democratic institutions, Atal Bihari possibility of voting in certain constituencies, will the cadre of

Vajpayee, the then Prime Minister of India had offered a the local parties be able to mobilize their supporters in their

'free and fair' election to the Kashmiris. Held under the strongholds? Much will depend on the nature of participation.

international glare, it was seen to be quite credible However, one can see that the effect of the poll boycott may

election and helped restore the confidence of people in be felt the most in the urban areas, mostly the district of

the electoral process. The fact that an incumbent Srinagar. But it has to be understood, that this district has been

government had been changed through the participation regularly boycotting elections and even in 2002, the overall

of people rather than through the intervention of the voter turnout here was around 11 percent. However, in the

Centre had the impact of boosting the confidence of pre-June situation, there was every possibility that even here

people in the democratic processes. the voter turnout would be substantial. But now the major

question remains whether the trend of lower voter turnout

constantly seen in the district of Srinagar will be followed in CHALLENGES other districts as well?

It took a long time and great effort to

undo the damage of 1987 assembly IN SEPARATIST CONTEXT e lec t ions wh ich apparent ly

worsened the Kashmir issue by Please comment on electoral politics

alleged denial of democratic space to in Jammu and Kashmir in separatist

genuine competitors. 2002 assembly context.

elections came to be seen as

trendsetters for their largely nterestingly, every election since 1996 has been of great recognized fairness. 21 years after interest to the separatists. They have been responding to the most controversial elections how Ithe elections through their politics of Poll Boycott. do you look at the challenges of Elections provide a challenge to the separatists in the context present elections. of the relevance of their politics. Hence, they tend to take

every electoral exercise very seriously and indulge in reverse

n the context of the legitimacy attained by the 2002 campaign asking people to boycott the polls. From this point of

Assembly election, it is already a set back that the 2008 view, each election is as much a challenge to the mainstream Ielections are not going to be held in the normal political parties as to the separatists. For the separatists, the

circumstances. The way things were moving till May this criticality of the challenge of election has been increasing due

year and the way there was an electoral upsurge in the to the expansion of the mainstream politics during last few

Valley, it would have reinforced the legitimacy of the years.

democratic processes. That election is now taking place in

a different situations, this in itself is the biggest In the initial period of present phase of conflict, the challenge. As the situation appears at present, the low voter mainstream political space had totally collapsed and the turnout may give leverage to the separatists to contest the separatist politics had completely overtaken the politics of

Dr. Farooq Abdullah has been declared as NC’s Chief

Ministerial candidate but he is unlikely to contest election

from anywhere. Congress does not have a tradition of declaring

leader in elections, PDP too has adopted same policy


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

the Valley and there was a total vacuum in the mainstream seen just before June this year. With an upsurge in the

politics. With the ascendancy of the gun on the one hand and electoral politics, there was lot of pressure on the

the political upsurge on the other, there was no scope for the separatists. While some of them had given a call for poll

mainstream politics and therefore the mainstream political boycott, there were others who were not very confident

leaders and parties had gone into hibernation for a long time. whether such a call would work or not. There were clear cut

How the electoral space had totally collapsed could be seen indications that if the situation had not turned the way it has

during the 1989 Parliamentary elections when most of the turned over last few months, the boycott call might not have

people preferred to stay away from the electoral exercise. been very effective.

Only 5.08% voters turnout was recorded in Anantnag

constituency and 5.48% in Baramula. Srinagar seat was AGENDA returned uncontested since there were many candidates

In 1996 assembly elections, the ready to contest elections.

dominant agenda was restoration of

democracy and the largest player Ascendancy of the separatist politics continued throughout –the National Conference –contested the period of nineties, even though elections were on plank of restoration of greater organized in 1996 both at the Parliamentary and Assembly autonomy. In 2002, the dominant levels. However, by the end of the decade of nineties, the agenda was credibility of elections mainstream politics started expanding itself and by the time and main plank was restoration of the 2002 Assembly election took place, the mainstream peace. What, do you think, sets the politics had regained some political space. Since 2002, there agenda this time?had been a continuous expansion of the mainstream politics,

with the result that an overlap started developing between here are lot of issues raised by the political upsurge

the separatist and the mainstream politics. in Jammu as well as Kashmir during the last four Tmonths which would form the agenda of the

It is in the context of the overlap between the separatist and elections. However, different political parties would be the mainstream politics, that the electoral politics had been using the issues in different manner. For instance, the posing serious challenge to the separatists, not only in the agitation of Jammu will become the reference point for context of the relevance of their relevance but also in the the BJP, Panthers Party and other Jammu oriented political context of the legitimacy claims that such elections may parties. Jammu's regional assertion would be the major create for those who tend to equate electoral response with issue for these parties. the support towards the Indian State. As the electoral space

had been expanding since 2002 elections, the separatists Already these parties are raising the issue of de-

had sought to respond to this challenge by referring to limitation in a rather big way. The issue of regional

distinction between the 'Governance' politics on the one aspirations would be raised by the Congress as well.

hand and the politics for 'ultimate resolution of the problem' The issue of Autonomy will again be the focus of

on the other. However, even after making such distinction, National Conference campaign, though it will be

the separatists were affected by the possibility of higher focusing on different issues in different regions. The

voter turnout in the elections. resolution of conflict and violation of Human Rights may

form the basis of its campaign in Kashmir. In Jammu, it How the electoral politics affects the separatists could be may refer to the regional aspirations and at the sub-

According to official voter statistics of state election

department, Anlay Fu Polling Station in Leh Constituency has

lowest number of voters - only 10. However, what government

has concealed is more interesting. Tarkundi polling station in

Poonch has only 6 voters. Barring family in this village of 3000

all illegally crossed over LoC to Pak Since 1990.


J&K


I N F O C U S

ELECTIONS 2008

regional level, it may touch upon the issues of intra- way to form a government and the

regional and inter-community relations. Human Rights experiment did not go well. This

violations in the Valley and the peace process may form the time, do you see possibility of any major agenda for the PDP though it may also emphasise on political party gaining sufficient issues like opening of roads and trade between Indian side of numbers to form government of its Kashmir and the Pakistan administered Kashmir. own?

CAMPAIGN f the elections had been organized before the month of Post Amarnath land row, the regional June this year, there would have been a fractured mandate gulf has widened in Jammu and Iin the Valley. Politics of Kashmir was quite vibrant and the Kashmir. It is difficult even for a competition would have been very intense. The intensity of common man to go public with a the competition would have been defined not merely by the single set of opinion in two regions. Is rivalry between the NC and the PDP but also because the

it, any way, possible for the political increasing number of political parties preparing themselves

parties to take a common agenda to for the poll. However, with the change in the situation, the

all regions when regional voices are intensity of the electoral competition would be missing and

too sharp? If not, won't it be a the electoral mandate may not be that fragmented. NC may be

in a position to gain quite a number of seats. deceptive and opportunist election

campaign for all?

However, the electoral verdict in Jammu will remain

fragmented. In fact it might be more fragmented than it was in here may be two kinds of responses. For the political parties 2002. In 2002, the Congress was able to get a chunk of seats in like the National Conference which have constituency in the region. But this time, it may not be able to get as many Tboth the regions, their campaign might help build some seats both due to the anti-incumbency factor as well as due to bridges between Jammu and Kashmir. But for the political the fall out of the two months' agitation. In the final outcome, parties like the PDP in Kashmir and BJP in Jammu, their the 37 seats of Jammu may be divided among the Congress, political campaign will raise the shrill in the regional politics. BJP, NC, Panthers Party. Depending on the nature of

mobilisation, the BSP may also regain few seats. A few seats OUTCOME

may be captured by the independents as well. National Conference returned with a

nearly two-third majority in 1996 On the whole, there are lots of possibilities about the formation

assembly elections when polls were of government. One thing is very clear that like 2002, the NC

held after a six-year long political would emerge as the largest party. But depending on how large

vacuum. Congress and BJP had eight this party is, the composition of the government would be

and seven seats, respectively, decided. In the situation as it is emerging, if the NC is able to get

Bahujan Samaj Party and Janta Dal a substantial number of seats in the Valley, it may be able to form

had four each. In 2002, the elections the government on its own or with the help of independents.

threw a hung assembly. An alliance However, if it is not able to sweep the Valley, in that case there will

between various parties was the only certainly be a coalition government headed by the NC.

J&K Legislative Assembly has 87 seats to be contested

(2 nominated) Kashmir Valley has 46, Jammu 34 &

Ladakh 4. Earlier this year 8 new districts took shape.

20 constituencies fall in 8 newly created districts.


Epilogue Newsroom

Trans-LoC Trade

Trucks Lift LoC Barriers

R E P O R T

LOC TRADE

into a lasting process of bridging the of the century. escribing October 21, 2008 wide divides. Over 61 years after last as a Red Letter day in the truck plied on the Jelhum Valley post-1947 history of Actual trade with prospects of road, 14 load carries crossed the Line Jammu and Kashmir will economic benefit on both sides may be D of Control on both sides to mark the not be an exaggeration a long way yet, the exchange of goods beginning of Trans-LoC trade –a even though all eyes are focused on on both sides of Line of Control has biggest Confidence Building Measure translation of a ceremonial beginning come as a biggest booster to the

Visiting delegation traders from Pakistan administered Kashmir at Suchetgarh outpost closed to Indo-Pak International Border near Jammu. Pakistan surfaced port city of Sialkote is just 11Kms from here. Jammu based traders want Suchetgarh-Sialkote route opened for trade.


R E P O R T

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stagnant peace process between India business chamber is still far from reality symbolic.

and Pakistan to ease tensions on in view of a wide gulf between traders

Kashmir. True to the spirit, the first of Srinagar and Jammu and rival trade “We don't know what currency we have consignment exchanged between both lobbies in Srinagar. to deal in. For the first few days we will sides and on both routes –Srinagar- be using a barter system where we fix Muzafarrabad and Poonch-Rawalakote The trading posts — Salamabad near Uri the worth of the goods based on the –carried mostly gift items instead of in Kashmir and Chakothi, two km inside exchange rate between the Indian and properly worked out commodities for Pakistan administered Kashmir received Pakistani rupee. Then the deliveries will trade. These gifts which included fruits, their first consignments on October 21 be done,” said Mubeen Shah, president, vegetables, pulses, spices and hours after Jammu and Kashmir Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and handicrafts have been estimated at Rs 8 Governor NN Vohra flagged off the Industries (KCCI).lakhs. trucks from Salamabad and PaK Prime

Minister Sardar Attique Khan saw off “We have met the government. Shortly ahead of the launch of Trans-LoC carriers from Chakothi on other side. Considering how volatile the market is trade a 19-member delegation of The crossing of the LoC followed almost now, we want to trade in a risk-free traders and industrialists from the the same modalities as the Srinagar- currency,” said A M Shirazi, president Pakistan administered Kashmir visited Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalakote Chambers of Commerce and Industries Jammu and Kashmir to make a market bus services, but with a difference — Kashmir (CCIK), while pointing to the assessment and work out modalities. vehicles from each side actually crossed fluctuating Pakistani rupee.The delegation headed by Zulfikar the Aman Setu. The bus passengers walk

Abbasi, a hydel industrialist, had wide across to board a different vehicle after According to the traders, the fact that ranging meetings with the trade lobbies crossing the bridge. one can't make calls from Kashmir to in Srinagar and Jammu and visited the PaK has hampered efforts to place industrial facilities. Deliberations were In this case, the respective cargo orders. Initially, the KCCI would assist though successful to the extent that vehicle drivers were given temporary by preparing the bills in its own name in traders from both sides made first one- passes and escorted in convoys to the the absence of proper buyer to-contact and got an idea of trade trading centres at Salamabad and information. “We are non-profit potential but the modalities could not Chakothi. The drivers remained organisation. We won't be doing this be finalized as the government had left confined to the trading centres and forever,” said Shah. Though a everything to them. In their own waited while the unloading and loading delegation of PaK had come, Shah said capacities traders enjoy hardly any is complete. they were not representing buyers. The authority to decide on currency of delegation from Indian side of Jammu exchange and setting up of enabling and Kashmir is now slated to travel But the reaction in the Valley to what infrastructure to facilitate the trade. across LoC sometimes towards the end could be a historic moment in ties Therefore, the trade is likely to remain of November and it is only then that the across the LoC has been largely muted. casual to the undecided modalities, buyers' information and requirements The reality is far from the objective of insufficient infrastructure and can be worked out. linking Kashmir to markets in Central lackadaisical bureaucratic attitude till

Asia.traders from both sides join hands to

Though the government has maintained exert pressure on their respective

that the Indian delegation must be one, The state's trade federations have said g o v e r n m e n t s t o r e m o v e t h e

the three rival trade federations in confusion over basic issues such as bottlenecks. The traders from both

Kashmir — KCCI, CCIK and Federation currency usage, communication sides have agreed in principle to form a

Chamber of Industry Kashmir (FCIK) and between the two sets of traders, lists of joint business chamber and Abbasi has

their counterparts in Jammu, the traded items and the logistics of been offered to take over as first

Jammu Chamber of Commerce and transport and travel papers has meant president. The formation of this joint

Industr ies —want independent that the effort might remain only


R E P O R T

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representation.

In spite of the political clamour to open the LoC

for business, the traders are jittery about the

prices that they will get in PaK because of the

economic turmoil in Pakistan, including the high

inflation prevailing there. “We have no idea how

much our apples will fetch there. But we are sure

it will be much lower than what we get from

consignments to the rest of India,” said Sajaad

Khan, an apple farmer in Baramulla district, one

of Kashmir's biggest apple growing regions.

Confusion is far deeper on the Poonch-Rawalakote

route. Traders in Poonch were never taken in

confidence either by government or the business

chambers in Srinagar or Jammu. Interestingly, the

Jammu based traders have hardly any interest in

taking the Poonch-Rawalakote route which is 250

kilometers from Jammu. “We would prefer

Nowshera-Jhangar Trans-LoC route or

Suchetgarh-Sialkote Trans-IB route”, says Ram

Sahai, the President of Jammu Chambers of

Commerce and Industries. Therefore, when

trucks rolled down the LoC trade routes, there

was neither a truck nor a packet of commodities

from Jammu markets. Even the Jammu based

traders stayed away from the ceremonial launch

of trade links.

In such a scenario, the Poonch-Rawalakote route

is bound to fail eventually. A day ahead of the

launch of truck service, the Foreign Secretary

Shivshanker Menon admitted in New Delhi that

modalities were yet to be worked out for Poonch-

Rawalakote route. It was a trade in haste. Unlike

Jammu based traders, the business community in

Poonch did not boycott the launch. The local

Beopar Mandal (association of traders) collected

fruits and vegetables from the market and sent

them across as gifts as Governor's Advisor HH

Tyabji launched the truck service. Next day,

Pakistan administered Kashmir President Raja

Zulkarnain Khan drove to the last LoC point on

Poonch-Rawalakote route to see off the trucks

from other side which too carried gift items.

Interview

Raja Zulqarnain Khan

President, Pakistan administered Kashmir

How do you look at this beginning?

Trade facilities between two parts of Jammu and

Kashmir were long due and they will not only boost the

economic profile on both sides but will also help in

cementing the ties between people. I am sure this

beginning will go a long way in improving life and

economy of people on both sides.

What is the public perception about

trade ties on your side?

Of course, our people are overwhelmed

and they look forward to enhanced

relations. While the businessmen are

elated over the prospects of profitable

trade the common people see trade link

as an opportunity to revive relations

with their dear ones in Indian Jammu

and Kashmir.

Do you think trade ties can pave way for lasting

resolution of Kashmir issue?

It will be unwise to link trade with Kashmir issue.

Trade is a good omen and it strengthens relations

between both sides but it has nothing to do with

resolution of Kashmir issue. Government of India and

Pakistan should engage in a meaningful dialogue and

involve people of Jammu and Kashmir for finding the

lasting solution. Killings in Kashmir and other

violations of human rights hurt us deeply and give us

wounds which can not be repaired by trade. All types

of human rights violations must end in Kashmir to

create a congenial atmosphere for dialogue.

-Raja Zulqarnain Khan spoke to KD Maini at Poonch

LoC on October 22

Don’t Link Trade With Kashmir Issue


Interview withZULFIKAR ABBASIPresident, Muzaffarabad Chamber of Commerce and Industries

This Is No Trade

‘We Are Investing In Peace Process’

R E P O R T

LOC TRADE

What attracts you to trans-LoC trade

with Jammu and Kashmir? Are you

looking at economic expansion or

investing in peace process?

Jammu and Kashmir is land of our

ancestors. It is a part of our own home

where did not have any access for last

60 years. We are not going to do

anything new. It is just the resumptions

of ties broken at the time of partition.

I must make one thing clear; it is not the

money which brings us here. We are

actual ly keen and s incere in

contributing our bit to the peace

process. If you look at the manner in

which Cross-LoC trade is being rolled

out it is not a business of profit; it is out

and out a business of loss. Aware of all

the bottlenecks and losses we are still

serious about going ahead because we

respect the gesture behind this (Cross-

LoC trade). Of course, in the long term

we would try to convert these losses

into profit but at the moment we are

ready to bear all losses for a long term

profit of peace and cooperation

between two parts of Jammu and

Kashmir.

The decision on Cross-LoC trade has been

taken at highest level in India and What is the public response to this Despite some element of skepticism

Pakistan –between Prime Minister gesture in Pakistan administered there is an overwhelming public

Manmohan Singh and President Asif Ali Kashmir and do you find a matching response on both sides of the divide.

Zardari –and now it was our turn to push it response on this side as you may have Skepticism stems from misconceived

forward. We did not want to share blame observed during last five days. no t i on s due t o l a c k o f any

of failing this Confidence Building communication channel. People in

Measure between both countries on Pakistan administered Kashmir are I am surprised at the kind of response. easing tension over Kashmir.


R E P O R T

LOC TRADE

overwhelmed as they see in this trade has to be our mutually shared The list of commodities to be exchanged

link a route to revival of their relations infrastructure and economy. There are is an eye wash but the gesture behind

with the people of this side. When we many things, for example rice, on our this is magnanimous which needs to be

set out for this journey on October 9 we side which can meet demands here. appreciated. This is a first step towards

had very little idea of public response Similarly, fruit and vegetables from this a journey which we have to travel

this side. But during my stay and side can fully meet our demands. Our thousands miles together. We

deliberations in Srinagar as well as in spices and recipes can also be of huge understand that this trade will push the

Jammu I am amazed at the kind of demand here. This one visit or one peace process but even minimum basic

response. People on both sides, I feel, meeting can not help zeroing down on requirements of infrastructure are not

are eager to break all barriers. demands and availabilities on both in place. With only 1 to 1.5 metric tonne

sides. We have to make a sincere truck allowed to ply on Cross-LoC route,

beginning in right direction and the we can probably exchange gifts with It took a staggering two and half years process will gradually grow. Industry on each other and not the commodities for for delegation to actually materialize this side of divide is far better then ours trade. After all we are not dealing in this visit. This inordinate delay had but we enjoy the advantage of better precious stones that a truck load of given a perception that businessmen and more skilled manpower. material would suffice. This is not a in Pakistan administered Kashmir

business of profit…this is business of were not interested in trading with straight loss. this side for the fear of Jammu and Both sides are a land of opportunities. Kashmir's dominance on the markets India and Pakistan have conflicts over

across LoC. There was a feeling that use of water resources which are the We do not have any dependable or

you had very little to send across this biggest wealth both sides. We can think minimally workable communication

side while the products and produce of having joint venture in hydel projects system between two sides. When you

in Jammu and Kashmir could have which on one hand will convert tensions can't talk to each other over phone, you

flooded your markets. into cooperation and on other hand will don't have any postal, parcel or courier

give a boost to economy. We can have services…what kind of trade you can

joint ventures in tourism which think of? Trades are not done Again, this is due to lack of emerging as one of the biggest incommunicado. We are about to start communication channels. These are industries of the world. We can have trade which needs enhanced contacts misconceived notions. On the contrary joint ventures in horticulture, but experiences are not quite impressive we were told that the only market in floriculture, cold storages and when we look at Cross-LoC bus services. Jammu and Kashmir is that of unrest distribution system. See, Kashmir Valley Permit system is too cumbersome and and violence…there is alarming is a fertile ground for growing world lengthy. Just imagine, if an apple grower unemployment and majority of people class flowers. We can take these flowers applies for permit when produce is ripe are victims of hunger. This still is the to Europe and Gulf in next 10 to 14 hours for the markets and he gets permission general public perception on our side. which reduces the cost of transport and when season is over. Can there be trade in However, fact of the matter is that both minimizes risk of perishing. such situation? sides have huge potential and the trade

relations can give a mutual fillip to the

economies. Whatever advantages and What are the bottlenecks in a practical We –representatives of the Chamber of

disadvantages are almost similar on Cross-LoC trade? Commerce and Industries in Jammu,

both sides. Srinagar and Muzaffarabad –should give

shape to a joint Chamber and pursue Initially this trade is full of bottlenecks. As I these issues with Governments of India We had devastating earthquake in pointed out above, we are participating in and Pakistan. October 2005 which put us 50 years the Cross-LoC trade under present back. But with international assistance, circumstances to push the peace process

a world class infrastructure is coming up and with a hope that practical measures The bottlenecks listed above are no way

an indication of the insincerity of our in Pakistan administered Kashmir and are taken to make this initiative success r e spec t i ve gove rnment s . The Jammu and Kashmir can obviously make and not just a ceremonial gesture to governments indeed are sincere enough huge contribution to that. Eventually it eventually fade away.


R E P O R T

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which is why today we are here

together. These issues will have to be

addressed to make this initiative

successful. This trade should an inland

exercise as good as it can be between

Kashmir and Jammu or between

Muzaffarabad and Rawalakote.

So what measures do you suggest for a

smooth and practical Cross-LoC trade?

First and foremost requirement of doing

business with each other is free

communication channels. Travel

restrictions should be eased; telephone

and postal services should be put in

place. Making traders casual to the

fortnightly bus service will eventually

fail this process. Traders should be

provided with permanent free travel to be sustained in long terms. If no tariff Kashmir a land of cooperation instead of permits and safe parting system so that is charges, the trade can touch any a land of conflict as it has been for they can move across the Line of Control heights but Ministries of Finance and years. But sir, here we must understand at their own convenience in their own Commerce will certainly go wary about that burying real issues under carpet vehicles. Branches of banks should be this. And if tariff is charged the volume and feeling happy over cosmetic opened in each others' territory and will not expand as one would have measures may backfire at some stage. dual currency (Pakistani and India) expected. India and Pakistan are The peace process between India and should be allowed for exchanges. Dual already trading through two routes Pakistan must continue to resolve currency system is a respectable way of –Wagah and Munabao. There has to be a Kashmir issue and trade can used as a honouring sanctity of Cross-LoC trade as balance between all routes. Currently multiplier to the peace efforts and not a dealing in Dollars or Euros will give an the total trade volume between India solution of the problems. impression of trading between two and Pakistan is far less than the actual sovereign countries which can worsen potential. You can see India is world's What are your major fears? things diplomatically. And most largest producers of tea and Pakistan important requirement is that an one of the major consumers but still

Our fears are obvious. India and Pakistan enabling infrastructure should come up they don't trade in this sector directly. have a history of agreeing upon many on both sides of Line of Control as also Vice versa is the case with cotton. There Confidence Building Measures but all of on way to each trade destination. are a lot of real and perceived barriers them could not be sustained. The hurry in which will take a long time to go. which this Cross-LoC trade has been given Experts on trade and economy argue green signal indicates some motives of that if pushed in proper perspective Cross-LoC trade has been initiated as a appeasement. We fear a slowdown and this Cross-LoC trade can be one billion measure of peace process between eventually collapse of the trade ties after dollar and its scope can expend India and Pakistan and a Confidence ceremonial launch. This is the kind of beyond the boundaries of Jammu and Building Measure on Kashmir. Can impression we have obtained here in Kashmir to India and Pakistan. trade really bring peace? Jammu and Kashmir under the prevailing

circumstances and in the backdrop of This is an overenthusiastic observation Trade alone is of no help. I am of the whatever has reportedly happened over and has to be viewed with caution. The opinion that agreement on Cross-LoC past few months. intra-Kashmir trade has been decided to trade underlines a strong urge between

- Zafar Choudharybe a zero tariff regime which is difficult India and Pakistan to make Jammu and

Business delegation from Pak and their J&K counterparts at an industiral exhibition in Jammu

epilogue november 2008

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