The abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019 brought about a seismic shift in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. The move has left Kashmiri parties facing a complex and difficult situation.
Once dominant political players, they now find themselves grappling with significant challenges and the need to redefine their strategies in the face of evolving circumstances.
National Conference (NC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are navigating uncharted waters, as their political stronghold and historical narrative centered around safeguarding the region’s autonomy have been significantly diminished.
After the scrapping of Article 370 J&K witnessed a significant realignment of political forces, new parties have come to fore and the traditional parties are finding it hard to make a comeback.
The dilution of their political clout has left Kashmiri parties facing the dilemma of political relevance. The NC and the PDP, which have dominated the political scene for decades, are looking for ways and means to connect with the disillusioned electorate.
They have to reassure the people that they can address their aspirations, particularly the youth, and offer a compelling vision for the future of Jammu and Kashmir. It’s crucial for determining their future trajectory.
To remain relevant, Kashmiri based parties have to undergo strategic shifts and rebranding efforts. This includes focusing on issues such as development, good governance, and economic growth, which resonate with the aspirations of the people. They need to shed the politics of raising slogans only and demonstrate their ability to deliver tangible benefits to the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir.
They must find ways to engage constructively with New Delhi, both in terms of pursuing their core agendas and addressing the concerns of their constituents. Constructive dialogue and negotiation will be vital in navigating the path forward and ensuring that the voices of the people of Jammu and Kashmir are heard at the national level.
Post-abrogation, Kashmiri parties find themselves at a crossroads, confronted with numerous challenges and the need to redefine their strategies. Adapting to the changing landscape, they face the daunting task of rebuilding trust among the people.
The parties must proactively engage with the public, particularly in remote areas, to understand their grievances and address their concerns. Only by fostering trust and credibility can these parties hope to regain their lost ground. |
