The current scenario is very much in the peoples interests. The only workable alliance is that of the PDP-BJP coalition in the state as it represents the will of the people all across the state. Having said this, both parties have to rise above party interests and demonstrate statesmanship in the formation of the government leaving behind contentious and region-centric politics. …..The PDP-BJP alliance is good as it can help to remove regional misunderstanding within the three regions. Perhaps making a prominent Kashmiri Pandit, along with one independent MLA from the Valley into ministers, will help matters in this regard. An agreed Common Minimum Program could be the working agenda, while the rest of the contentious issues can wait, especially Article 370. The BJP so far has been advocating the abrogation of Article 370 but I am sure that it realises that this will result in the total alienation of the people in the Valley. The election result has thrown up this perception very clearly and loudly.
Coordination
If Kashmir has to be part of aspirational India as envisioned by Prime Minister Modi, then its distinctiveness has to be upheld within the larger entity of India. Policy with regard to Jammu and Kashmir must coordinate between the Centres policy on Kashmir; domestic policies on the political, social and economic situation in the state; and the treatment of Jammu and Kashmir as an issue with Pakistan, in relation to Indias foreign policy in general. A coherent and effective policy that combines all of these components is now the need of the hour.
Economic reconstruction and development of the state must be the first priority of this new alliance government. Regarding this, effective governance will constitute the sustainable economic well-being of the people. In this direction, besides the governments resources, there is a need to mobilise adequate physical and financial resources from alternate sources for the reconstruction of the states economy.
The corporate sector can be approached to provide support for various socio-economic activities under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) schemes. Economic infrastructure, namely roads, transport, communication, business establishment, educational institutions, hospitals, tourism should be addressed by the new government on a fast track mode and the Centre must provide the required financial and technical support.
Goodwill
The NGOs and the youth of J&K in particular, have rendered commendable services in the recent flood relief activities. They also need to be involved in alleviating difficulties and building infrastructure within the state. A group of credible NGOs should be identified for this and then be provided logistic support for enabling them to function in an effective manner. The NGOs could then work with unemployed youth, who then should be suitably rewarded by way of monetary compensation to start with, for such work…..Ashok Bhan in the Daily O
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