J & K AUTONOMY & UNION OF INDIA

A significant seminar on "Jammu & Kashmir Autonomy & Its Relation with the Union of India" was held on 7th July 2000 at the Constitution Club, New Delhi. The discussion brought together political leaders, policymakers, and representatives of affected communities to debate the issue of J&K’s autonomy, integration with India, and its implications on national security and governance.

Key Discussion Points

1. The Demand for Autonomy in J&K

  • Ali Mohammad Sagar (Cabinet Works Minister, J&K Govt.)
    • Spoke on the historical context of J&K’s special status under Article 370.
    • Highlighted the state government's perspective on greater autonomy within the Indian Union.
    • Argued that regional autonomy would empower the people of J&K politically and economically.

2. The National Perspective on Autonomy

  • Kedar Nath Sahani (Senior BJP Leader)

    • Opposed the demand for increased autonomy, asserting that J&K is an integral part of India.
    • Stressed that autonomy could weaken India's unity and encourage separatism.
    • Called for greater integration of J&K with the rest of the country.

  • Agni Shekar (Convenor, Panun Kashmir)

    • Spoke about the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits and the need to protect their rights.
    • Demanded equal treatment and representation for all communities in J&K.
    • Called for a review of policies that led to the alienation of certain communities.

3. The Perspective of Minority and Tribal Communities

  • Sardar Tarlochan Singh (Vice Chairman, Minorities Commission)

    • Stressed the need to protect the rights of minorities in J&K, including Sikhs, Buddhists, and other non-Muslim communities.
    • Called for fair representation of all communities in governance and policymaking.

  • Lama Lobzang (Member, National Commission for SC & ST, GOI)

    • Spoke about the challenges faced by Ladakh’s Buddhist population.
    • Advocated for greater autonomy for Ladakh separate from Kashmir’s political turmoil.

4. Solutions & Recommendations

✅ Strengthening National Integration

  • Emphasis on economic development, education, and employment opportunities in J&K.
  • Better integration with national policies to ensure balanced growth.

✅ Ensuring Minority Rights & Security

  • Equal representation of all communities in governance.
  • Stronger measures to protect displaced Kashmiri Pandits and other minorities.

✅ Balanced Approach to Autonomy

  • A dialogue-based approach to understand regional aspirations while maintaining national integrity.
  • Decentralization of power to ensure fair development across all regions of J&K, including Jammu and Ladakh.

Conclusion

The seminar concluded with a call for a balanced approach—one that ensures the unity and integrity of India while addressing the regional aspirations of J&K’s people. The speakers emphasized that dialogue, development, and security are key to lasting peace and stability in the region.