JAMMU, Aug 5: Renowned human rights activist Om Parkash Khajuria on Tuesday said that observing the anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370 with protests reflects the deep emotional pain and constitutional concerns of many people who believe that Jammu and Kashmir lost its distinct constitutional status and was downgraded from a full-fledged state to a Union Territory.
In a statement issued here, Khajuria said that while August 5, 2019, is celebrated by some sections as a historic day, many others continue to regard it as a day that altered the political and constitutional identity of Jammu and Kashmir without the consent of its people. He said that every democratic society must respect differing viewpoints on such significant constitutional developments.
Expressing concern over the downgrading of the erstwhile state into a Union Territory, Khajuria remarked that it is particularly painful for the people of the historic Dogra State, which had its own unique identity and rich legacy. He said that Jammu and Kashmir’s transition from a state to a Union Territory remains an issue of deep sentiment and dignity for many citizens.
“It is ironic that while several states across the country continue to seek special status or enhanced constitutional and financial provisions to accelerate peace, development and prosperity, Jammu and Kashmir was deprived of its own special constitutional position and simultaneously downgraded into a Union Territory,” Khajuria said.
Referring to the historical background of the erstwhile princely state, Khajuria said that Maharaja Hari Singh had introduced the State Subject laws to safeguard the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir by protecting their land, employment opportunities and proprietary rights. He alleged that after the abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A, the State Subject provisions were replaced by the domicile framework, fundamentally altering the safeguards that had existed for generations.
Khajuria claimed that this change has opened the doors for outsiders to compete for government jobs and establish businesses in Jammu and Kashmir, which, according to him, has adversely affected local youth, traders and entrepreneurs. He alleged that increasing competition from outside businesses has created anxiety and unrest among small traders and local businessmen who have long depended on traditional markets for their livelihood. He maintained that many educated unemployed youth also feel that employment opportunities have become increasingly competitive following the replacement of the State Subject regime with the domicile policy.
He asserted that constitutional arrangements should always strengthen democratic institutions and uphold the aspirations of the people. According to him, democratic governance becomes more meaningful when decisions affecting the future of a region are taken with broad public participation, dialogue and consensus.
Khajuria maintained that the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir should remain a priority. He said that elected institutions with adequate constitutional powers are essential for responsive governance, effective administration and safeguarding the democratic rights of the people.
The human rights activist also underlined the historical significance of the Dogra State, stating that its political, cultural and administrative heritage deserves recognition and respect. He said preserving this legacy is important for future generations and should not be overshadowed by constitutional or administrative changes.
Calling for peace, harmony and democratic engagement, Khajuria urged the Union Government to take confidence-building measures that address the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He said constructive dialogue, restoration of democratic institutions and greater public participation would help strengthen trust between the government and citizens.
Khajuria appealed to people across Jammu and Kashmir to maintain communal harmony, mutual respect and unity while expressing their democratic opinions peacefully. He said differences over constitutional issues should always be addressed through democratic means and constitutional dialogue.
Reiterating his stand, Khajuria said that remembering August 5 with protests is, in his view, a peaceful democratic expression reflecting the anguish of those who continue to believe that Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status and statehood should not have been taken away. He emphasized that respecting diverse opinions is a hallmark of a vibrant democracy and urged all stakeholders to work towards safeguarding democratic values, constitutional rights and the dignity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.