Why in the News?

A leading Kashmiri religious and political figure has written about the roots of alienation in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), cautioning that security-centric responses alone cannot heal the underlying political and social wounds. The article comes in the backdrop of recent terror violence and growing public and administrative reactions that risk deepening distrust in the region.

Introduction

J&K has witnessed decades of violence and conflict that have shaped local perceptions of identity, dignity, and governance. While terrorism must be condemned unequivocally, state responses that extend beyond perpetrators to entire communities often create long-term resentment. Healing the conflict requires acknowledging grievances, ensuring the protection of rights, and encouraging political dialogue along with security measures.

Drivers of Alienation in Jammu & Kashmir

1. Erosion of Trust in Institutions

Frequent arrests, surveillance, property attachments and dismissals from government service heighten fears of arbitrary state power. Such actions reduce confidence in the fairness of governance structures.

2. Perception of Loss of Political and Constitutional Safeguards

The removal of special status and job/land protections is seen by many as diminishing local autonomy and identity. This perception has made ordinary citizens feel further distanced from decision-making.

3. Socio-economic Discontent among Youth

Shrinking opportunities for local employment, especially in government roles, create a sense of exclusion. Educated youth face uncertainty and limited mobility, triggering frustration and hopelessness.

4. Collective Stigmatization

Students, families and professionals from J&K often face suspicion across India after any violent incident. Houses being demolished because of a relative’s alleged involvement with militants’ spreads fear and breaks the idea of justice as individual and fair.

5. Media Narratives and Labeling

Premature judgments based on “unverified sources” not only polarize discourse but also reinforce dangerous stereotypes that push communities further apart.

Consequences of Current Policies

Security operations may temporarily contain militancy, but they cannot resolve deeper mistrust. The continued sense of dispossession and humiliation risks alienating even those who reject extremism, creating conditions that hostility can exploit.

This promotes:

• Distrust between citizens and state authorities
• Retaliatory sentiments among the youth
• Heightened identity insecurity and social fragmentation

Approaches to Peace: Security vs Engagement

Aspect	Predominantly Security-Centric Approach	Dialogue and Inclusion-Based Approach
Impact on daily life	Curbs liberties and movement	Creates space for democratic participation
Public perception	State seen as coercive	State gains legitimacy
Effect on militancy	Controls violence temporarily	Reduces motivations for extremism
Long-term peace	Often unstable	Sustainable and rooted in reconciliation

A balance is essential, but dignity and justice cannot be secondary goals.

Pathways to Reconciliation

• Safeguarding Rights and Due Process: Legal accountability, transparency in security operations and mechanisms to challenge arbitrary actions are essential to restore faith.
• Engagement with Local Stakeholders: Open dialogue involving civil society, community leaders and youth can turn grievances into constructive participation.
• Confidence-Building Measures: Revisiting punitive policies, ensuring fair recruitment practices and addressing socio-economic demands can reduce alienation.
• Vision-led Political Resolution: A humane and democratic framework, as previously advocated around principles of compassion and inclusive governance, has potential to rebuild trust.

Conclusion

J&K cannot be viewed solely through the lens of law and order. Acts of terror deserve strong action, but collective suspicion and punishment erode the legitimacy of the state. Reconciliation becomes possible only when rights are protected, aspirations are respected and grievances are addressed. Dialogue, empathy and dignity are central to any durable peace in the region.

Source: The way to reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir – The Hindu

UPSC CSE PYQ

Year	Question
2016	To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity.
2019	The banning of Jamaat-e-Islami in Jammu and Kashmir has brought into focus the role of over-ground workers (OGWs) in assisting terrorist organisations. Examine the role played by OGWs in assisting terrorist organisations in insurgency-affected areas. Discuss measures to neutralise the influence of OGWs.
2021	Analyse the multidimensional challenges posed by external state and non-state actors to India’s internal security. Discuss measures to combat these threats.