Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed the central government’s consideration of revoking the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Jammu and Kashmir. Plans are underway to withdraw troops from the Union Territory (UT) and entrust law and order responsibilities solely to the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
AFSPA and Its Implications
- The AFSPA grants extensive powers to armed forces personnel, including search, arrest, and use of force for maintaining public order in disturbed areas.
- Areas or districts are designated as disturbed under the AFSPA to facilitate armed forces operations.
Electoral Plans and Political Landscape in Jammu and Kashmir
- Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are slated to occur before September, as directed by the Supreme Court.
- The aim is to establish a robust democratic system that includes broader representation beyond traditional political families.
Reservations and Social Welfare Initiatives
- The Modi government has implemented reservations for OBCs and women in Jammu and Kashmir, along with provisions for SCs, STs, and displaced individuals from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
- Efforts are focused on ensuring these benefits reach grassroots levels.
Counterterrorism Measures and Security Situations
- Stringent measures have been taken against terrorism, including banning organizations, designating individuals as terrorists, and seizing assets related to terror financing.
- Dialogue with Kashmiri youths is prioritized, while groups linked to Pakistan-based organizations are excluded from discussions.
Security Improvements and Social Dynamics
- Significant reductions in incidents of stone-pelting and terrorist activities have been observed.
- There’s been a notable decline in civilian and security force casualties, reflecting improved security conditions.
Engagement with Pakistan and Regional Dynamics
- The Modi government aims to address the concerns of both Muslim and Hindu residents in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) and considers it an integral part of India.
- Youth in Jammu and Kashmir are urged to reject Pakistan’s influence and focus on development within India’s constitutional framework.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with Answers:
- What is the main focus of the Modi government’s plans regarding the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in Jammu and Kashmir?
- a) Strengthening military presence
- b) Revoking the AFSPA
- c) Enforcing stricter regulations under AFSPA
- d) Expanding the powers of the armed forces
- What does AFSPA primarily grant to armed forces personnel operating in disturbed areas?
- a) Authority to conduct elections
- b) Power to declare martial law
- c) Sweeping powers for law enforcement
- d) Ability to establish local governance
- What is the key electoral commitment made by the Modi government regarding Jammu and Kashmir?
- a) Postponing elections indefinitely
- b) Conducting elections after September
- c) Establishing a monarchy
- d) Abolishing the electoral system
- Which of the following social welfare initiatives has been implemented by the Modi government in Jammu and Kashmir?
- a) Reservation for minorities only
- b) Reservation for upper castes
- c) Reservation for OBCs and women
- d) Exclusion of reservations altogether
- What has been the trend in security incidents and casualties in Jammu and Kashmir in recent years?
- a) Increase in incidents and casualties
- b) Consistent levels of incidents and casualties
- c) Reduction in incidents and casualties
- d) Drastic fluctuations in incidents and casualties