When the Narrative Runs Ahead of Reality Jammu and Kashmir is not an ordinary political geography. Its location, its history, its wars and the circumstances in which its politics evolved have made it one of the most politically sensitive regions of India. Its political journey, too, has been unlike that of most other parts of the country.

From the politics of accession and the early constitutional debates to the later movements for greater autonomy, self-rule and other political formulations, and eventually the politics surrounding Article 370 and the present demand for restoration of statehood, Jammu and Kashmir has travelled through several political phases. Yet one uncomfortable question continues to remain: what has each phase ultimately delivered to the ordinary citizen?There is a pattern worth examining.

Political movements rise with enormous expectations. Streets become crowded, slogans become louder and political narratives acquire a life of their own. But when the dust settles, the common man is often left asking what actually changed in his life.And yet, elections bring the narratives back.

Political parties know that elections are not fought merely on government schemes, statistics or administrative performance. They are also fought on emotions, aspirations and perceptions. In Jammu and Kashmir, this becomes even more pronounced because the political question is deeply connected with the sense of identity and regional aspirations of the people.This does not mean that people are foolish enough to believe every political promise. Nor does it mean that every aspiration emerging from Kashmir should be viewed with suspicion.

The aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir are real. Wanting greater political representation, protection of local interests, employment opportunities, land rights or restoration of constitutional arrangements is not, by itself, an act of disloyalty to the nation. India’s Constitution has accommodated different arrangements for different parts of the country. Regional........

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