Supreme Court’s Insightful Hearing Sheds Light on Jammu and Kashmir’s Historical Governance

The Supreme Court’s recent hearing has illuminated the intricate tapestry of Jammu and Kashmir’s past, revealing the blurred lines between political entities and administrative bodies. This exploration into the region’s history has brought forth some startling revelations, emphasizing the need for a clear distinction between governance and political agendas.

The National Conference’s Dominance

The National Conference (NC), undeniably, stood as the most influential political entity in Jammu & Kashmir, especially in the Kashmir Valley and certain parts of Jammu.

• However, the electoral process of September-October 1951, which culminated in the formation of the J&K Constituent Assembly, was conducted in a milieu where the boundaries between the ruling party and the state’s administrative machinery were almost indistinguishable.

The Soviet-Style Administration

In districts like Doda, the district administrator donned dual hats – one of an administrative officer and the other of a party functionary.

• This conflation led to a Soviet-style administration where the ruling party and the bureaucracy were virtually one and the same.
• Such a governance model, where political interests overshadowed administrative duties, had a detrimental effect on J&K’s long-term governance.

The political elite, over the years, manipulated the bureaucracy to their advantage, especially during elections. A glaring example of this manipulation was evident when nomination papers of several candidates, both for the Assembly and parliamentary elections, were dismissed on trivial pretexts. This malpractice, which began in the 1950s and 1960s, became an institutionalized norm in J&K.

The Need for Distinct Governance

The revelations from the Supreme Court’s hearing underscore the importance of maintaining a clear demarcation between political entities and administrative bodies. For a region to thrive, it is imperative that governance is free from political biases and focuses solely on the welfare of its citizens.

In light of these findings, one must ponder:

How can Jammu and Kashmir move forward, ensuring that its governance is transparent, unbiased, and truly representative of its people’s needs?

We invite our readers to share their insights and experiences on this matter, fostering a two-way dialogue that can pave the way for a brighter future for J&K.