Basis of Regionalism: Politics in the states (Anandpur Sahib Resolution) – UPSC Post-Independence Notes

The Anandpur Sahib Resolution, adopted by the Shiromani Akali Dal in 1973, represents a significant moment in Sikh political history. Here’s a summary of its key points and implications:

1. Separation of Sikhism from Hinduism: One of the primary goals of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution was to assert Sikhism as a distinct and separate religion from Hinduism. This was aimed at establishing the unique identity and integrity of Sikhism.
2. Regional Autonomy: The resolution also sought greater regional autonomy for Punjab and other Sikh-majority regions. This was in response to perceived central interference in state affairs and a desire for more control over local governance.
3. Religious Configuration: While the resolution included demands for regional autonomy, it was heavily influenced by religious considerations. The emphasis on Sikh identity and the promotion of Sikh interests were central to its objectives.
4. Controversy and Virality: The Anandpur Sahib Resolution sparked controversy due to its emphasis on Sikh separatism and autonomy. It became a focal point for discussions about the relationship between the Sikh community and the Indian state.
5. Goals for Dominance: Some critics argue that the resolution aimed to establish Sikh dominance and hegemony in Punjab and other Sikh-majority areas. This perception contributed to the contentious nature of the resolution.

Overall, the Anandpur Sahib Resolution reflects the complex interplay between religion, politics, and regional identity in Punjab and highlights the aspirations of the Sikh community for greater autonomy and recognition.

The “Anandpur Sahib Resolution” encompassed both political and religious demands, aiming to establish Sikhism as a distinct faith separate from Hinduism. Here’s a breakdown of some specific demands outlined in the resolution:

1. Separation of Sikhism from Hinduism: The primary demand was to officially recognize Sikhism as a separate religion in the Indian Constitution, affirming its distinct identity and authority.
2. Autonomy for Punjab: The resolution sought greater autonomy for Punjab, including measures to combat casteism, support farmers by easing tax burdens, and provide economic benefits for agricultural activities.
3. Protection of Minorities: It called for the protection of minorities, including Kashmiri migrants, and advocated against job reservation based on caste and minority status.
4. Economic Support: The resolution requested the abolition of excise duty on agricultural implements and machinery, exemption of agricultural land from taxation, and establishment of textile and sugar mills in Punjab to support its economy.

In summary, the Anandpur Sahib Resolution aimed to assert the political and religious identity of the Sikh community, secure autonomy for Punjab, and address socio-economic issues affecting the region. It was initiated by the Shiromani Akali Dal to advocate for the rights and recognition of Punjab and Sikhism within the Indian state.

The Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) issue has been a significant challenge in India-Pakistan relations, stemming from the unresolved territorial dispute and the special constitutional status granted to the state. Here’s an overview:

1. UN Resolution and Pakistan’s Refusal: The UN passed a resolution in 1951 calling for a referendum in Kashmir under UN supervision, contingent upon Pakistan withdrawing its troops from the region it controlled. However, Pakistan has not withdrawn its forces from the part of Kashmir under its control, rendering the resolution ineffective.
2. Article 370 and Special Status: Article 370 of the Indian Constitution grants special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir, allowing the state to have its own constitution and giving it greater control over its internal affairs. This provision has been a contentious issue, with some arguing that it impedes the full integration of the state with India.
3. Militancy and Terrorism: Since 1989, Jammu and Kashmir has faced a militant movement seeking independence or merger with Pakistan. Pakistan has been accused of supporting state-sponsored terrorism in the region, providing moral, material, and military support to insurgent groups. This has posed a significant security challenge for India.
4. Revocation of Article 370: In August 2019, the BJP-led NDA government revoked Article 370, effectively stripping Jammu and Kashmir of its special status and dividing the state into two union territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. This move was aimed at integrating the region more closely with the rest of India.
5. Constitutional Relationship: The constitutional relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the Union of India has been regulated by various orders issued by the President, such as the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1950, and the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954. These orders extend the Union’s jurisdiction over the state, subject to certain conditions and modifications.

Overall, the Jammu and Kashmir issue remains a complex and sensitive issue in India’s domestic and foreign policy landscape, with implications for regional stability and security.

Top of Form

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution grants special provisions to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, recognizing its unique historical and political circumstances. Here’s an overview of its key provisions and implications:

1. Temporary Nature: Article 370 explicitly states that its provisions with respect to the state of Jammu and Kashmir are temporary and not permanent. It was incorporated into the Constitution with the intention of providing special status to the state.
2. Limited Powers of Parliament: Under Article 370, the power of the Indian Parliament to make laws for the state of Jammu and Kashmir is limited. Parliament can only make laws on matters specified in the Instrument of Accession, which include defense, external affairs, communications, and ancillary matters. Additionally, Parliament can make laws on other matters with the concurrence of the state government.
3. Applicability of Certain Articles: While certain provisions of the Indian Constitution, such as Article 1 (declaring India as a Union of states and its territory) and Article 370 itself, are applicable to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, other provisions can be applied with exceptions and modifications as specified by the President in consultation with the state government.
4. Power of the President: The President has the authority to declare that Article 370 ceases to be operative or operates with exceptions and modifications. However, such a declaration can only be made on the recommendation of the Constituent Assembly of the state.

Overall, Article 370 reflects a unique constitutional arrangement aimed at accommodating the specific needs and aspirations of the state of Jammu and Kashmir. It has been a subject of debate and controversy, with some advocating for its revocation to fully integrate the state with the rest of India, while others argue for its retention to preserve the state’s distinct identity and autonomy.

The issue of Kashmir presents dual disputes, both externally with Pakistan and internally within the Indian Union.

1. External Issue:
   • Pakistan’s claim: Pakistan has consistently claimed that the Kashmir valley should be part of Pakistan. This claim stems from religious and historical reasons.
   • Tribal invasion: In 1947, Pakistan sponsored a tribal invasion of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, leading to the occupation of one part of the state by Pakistan. This area is referred to by Pakistan as ‘Azad Kashmir’, while India considers it to be under illegal occupation.
   • Ongoing conflict: Since 1947, Kashmir has remained a major point of contention and conflict between India and Pakistan, leading to several wars and ongoing tensions between the two countries.
2. Internal Issue:
   • Special status: Internally, there is a dispute regarding the status of Kashmir within the Indian Union. Kashmir was granted a special status by Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, which gives greater autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir compared to other states.
   • Autonomy under Article 370: Article 370 allows Kashmir to have its own Constitution, and not all provisions of the Indian Constitution are applicable to the state. Laws passed by the Indian Parliament apply to Jammu and Kashmir only if the state government agrees to them.
   • Debate over Article 370: The special status granted to Kashmir under Article 370 has been a subject of debate and controversy within India, with some advocating for its revocation to fully integrate the state with the rest of India, while others argue for its retention to preserve the state’s distinct identity and autonomy.

Overall, the Kashmir issue remains a complex and sensitive matter, with both external and internal dimensions contributing to its complexity. Efforts to resolve the disputes surrounding Kashmir have been ongoing for decades, but a lasting solution has yet to be achieved.

The demand for Sikh autonomy and the Khalistan movement emerged as significant regionalist movements in India, particularly in the state of Punjab, with historical and political underpinnings:

1. Historical Context:
   • Partition aftermath: After the partition of India in 1947, Punjab witnessed significant demographic changes, with Sikhs becoming a majority in the region.
   • Demand for autonomy: In the 1970s, a faction of the Akali Dal, a prominent Sikh political party, began advocating for greater political autonomy for Punjab. This demand stemmed from a desire to assert Sikh identity and address regional grievances.
2. Anandpur Sahib Resolution:
   • In 1973, the Akali Dal passed the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, which called for regional autonomy and a redefinition of the center-state relationship in India.
   • The resolution aimed to address issues such as economic disparities, cultural preservation, and linguistic rights within Punjab, asserting the region’s distinct identity.
3. Rise of Extremism:
   • While the Anandpur Sahib Resolution primarily sought autonomy within the Indian framework, more extreme elements within the movement, led by figures like Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, advocated for outright secession from India.
   • Bhindranwale and his followers espoused the idea of creating an independent Sikh state called “Khalistan,” separate from India.
4. Khalistan Movement:
   • The Khalistan movement gained momentum in the 1980s, marked by escalating violence and militancy in Punjab.
   • This movement was characterized by acts of terrorism, including bombings, assassinations, and targeted killings, aimed at destabilizing the Indian state and achieving the goal of Khalistan.
   • The conflict between the Khalistani militants and Indian security forces resulted in a period of turmoil and unrest in Punjab, with significant loss of life and damage to property.
5. Government Response:
   • The Indian government, under various administrations, responded to the Khalistan insurgency with a combination of security measures and political initiatives.
   • Operation Blue Star: In 1984, the Indian Army conducted Operation Blue Star to flush out militants, including Bhindranwale, from the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar. The operation led to significant casualties and widespread outrage among Sikhs.
   • Counter-insurgency efforts: Subsequent to Operation Blue Star, the Indian government implemented counter-insurgency measures to curb militant activities in Punjab, leading to the decline of the Khalistan movement by the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The demand for Sikh autonomy and the Khalistan movement represented a complex interplay of historical grievances, identity politics, and socio-economic factors, highlighting the challenges of managing regional aspirations within the framework of the Indian nation-state.

The linguistic tensions in post-1947 Punjab became highly contentious due to the communal contest over language and script, leading to significant political strife and ultimately the demand for a separate Punjabi-speaking state, known as Punjabi Suba:

1. Language of Administration and Schooling:
   • The linguistic divide emerged between Hindu and Sikh communalists over the choice of language for administration and schooling in bilingual Punjab.
   • Hindu communalists advocated for Hindi, while Sikh communalists favored Punjabi in the Gurmukhi script.
2. Division of Punjab:
   • To address the linguistic issue, the government proposed dividing Punjab into two linguistic zones: Punjabi and Hindi.
   • However, Hindu communalists opposed the decision to make Punjabi compulsory in schools and the sole official language for district administration in the Punjabi linguistic zone.
3. Controversy Over Script:
   • Another contentious issue was the choice of script for Punjabi. Traditionally, Punjabi had been written in Urdu, Gurmukhi, and Devanagari scripts.
   • The Akalis demanded that Gurmukhi alone be used as the script for Punjabi, while Hindu communal organizations insisted on including Devanagari alongside Gurmukhi.
4. Communal Complexity:
   • Both Sikh and Hindu communalists injected a strong communal aspect into the linguistic debate, exacerbating tensions between the communities.
5. Demand for Punjabi Suba:
   • The Akali Dal, a Sikh-dominated political party, led the demand for a Punjabi-speaking state, known as Punjabi Suba.
   • Sikhs sought to create a Punjabi Suba where they could form a majority, distinct from the Hindi-speaking regions of Haryana and Himachal Pradesh.
   • The demand for Punjabi Suba was presented to the States Reorganisation Commission in 1953, aiming to ensure linguistic and cultural autonomy for Punjabi-speaking regions.

The linguistic strife in post-1947 Punjab underscored the complexities of communal politics and regional identity in India, leading to significant demands for linguistic and cultural recognition and ultimately the reorganisation of states along linguistic lines.

Top of Form

The consequences of the Green Revolution in Punjab, coupled with Pakistan’s involvement in fueling Sikh militancy, and the aftermath of Operation Blue Star had significant ramifications on regionalism in India:

1. Unemployment and Militancy:
   • Mechanized agricultural techniques introduced during the Green Revolution led to unemployment among rural youth in Punjab.
   • Unemployed Sikh youth, unable to find alternative employment due to the lack of heavy industries in Punjab, were drawn to militant groups.
2. Pakistan’s Role:
   • Pakistan played a significant role in training, guiding, and arming Sikh militants through organizations like BKI, ISYF, and KZF.
   • Interrogation reports revealed training of Sikh youth in Pakistan under the supervision of ISI, fueling militancy in Punjab.
3. Operation Blue Star and Militancy:
   • Operation Blue Star, conducted by the Indian government in June 1984 to flush out militants from the Golden Temple, had unintended consequences.
   • The transformation of moderate Akali leadership to extreme elements led to armed insurgency for Khalistan.
   • The militants fortified the Golden Temple, turning it into an armed fortress, leading to a military confrontation with the Indian Army.
4. Communal Violence and Repercussions:
   • The damage to the Golden Temple during Operation Blue Star and subsequent events fueled sentiments among Sikhs, leading to further unrest.
   • The assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards in retaliation for Operation Blue Star sparked brutal anti-Sikh riots across India.

Overall, the Green Revolution, Pakistan’s involvement, Operation Blue Star, and its aftermath had profound effects on regionalism in Punjab, exacerbating tensions and leading to significant violence and communal strife.

The aftermath of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and the subsequent Punjab Accord had significant implications for regionalism in India:

1. Legacy of Anti-Sikh Riots:
   • The anti-Sikh riots, triggered by the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, resulted in widespread violence, particularly in Delhi and Punjab.
   • The riots, characterized by some as genocide or massacres, led to calls for justice and accountability for the perpetrators.
2. Calls for Justice and Investigations:
   • Rajiv Gandhi’s government ordered an independent judicial inquiry into the Sikh riots and signed the Punjab Accord in an attempt to address the grievances of the Sikh community.
   • However, investigations into the riots faced criticism, particularly for not clearly implicating members of the Congress party like Jagdish Tytler.
   • Widespread protests followed the release of the investigative report, leading to the resignation of Tytler from the Union Cabinet.
3. Punjab Accord and Peace Process:
   • The Punjab Accord, signed between Rajiv Gandhi and Akali leaders, aimed to provide a lasting solution to the Punjab problem.
   • Major provisions included compensation for victims of violence, addressing water-sharing disputes, and revoking AFSPA from Punjab.
   • Despite the accord, peace was not immediately achieved. Militancy and counter-insurgency violence continued, leading to human rights violations and the fragmentation of the Akali Dal.
4. Return to Peace and Democratic Process:
   • Gradually, with the efforts of security forces, militancy was eradicated, and peace returned to Punjab by the mid-1990s.
   • The alliance between the BJP and Shiromani Akali Dal emerged victorious, bringing back the democratic process in the state and marking a return to normalcy.

Overall, the aftermath of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots and the Punjab Accord underscored the complexities of regionalism in India, highlighting the need for justice, reconciliation, and inclusive political processes to address grievances and build lasting peace.

The aftermath of the Punjab Accord saw significant political developments and challenges in Punjab:

1. Assassination of Longowal:
   • Despite the signing of the Punjab Accord, Sikh militants opposed to the agreement assassinated Harchand Singh Longowal, the Akali leader who signed the accord.
   • Longowal’s assassination underscored the ongoing challenges of militancy and violence in Punjab.
2. Elections and Political Instability:
   • Elections were held in Punjab as scheduled, with the Akali Dal securing an absolute majority in the state assembly for the first time.
   • Surjit Singh Barnala became the Chief Minister, but the Akali government faced challenges of factionalism and militant groups taking advantage of the state’s soft policies.
3. Resurgence of Terrorism:
   • Despite the Punjab Accord, there was a resurgence of terrorist activities due to the inability of the state government to contain them effectively.
   • The central government dismissed the state government and imposed President’s Rule in May 1987, but terrorism continued to increase with support from Pakistan.
4. Government Responses:
   • Subsequent governments, including those led by VP Singh and Chandra Shekhar, attempted to address the Punjab problem through negotiations and appeasement policies.
   • In 1988, the state launched Operation Black Thunder, which aimed to flush out terrorists. It involved Punjab police and paramilitary forces.
   • The Narsimha Rao government, from mid-1991 onwards, adopted a tougher policy towards terrorism, leading to increased effectiveness of the police forces.
5. End of Militancy:
   • By 1993, the concerted efforts of the government, including tougher policies and effective police action, led to the virtual eradication of terrorism in Punjab.
   • The success in curbing militancy marked a significant turning point in the region’s history, bringing about stability and peace after years of violence and conflict.

The challenges in North East India are multifaceted and deeply rooted in historical, ethnic, and territorial dynamics:

1. Ethnic and Territorial Dynamics:
   • The region’s historical connections with Tibeto-Burman/Mongoloid tribes and its distinct cultural and linguistic diversity have led to identity assertion.
   • Territorial organization in the 1950s ignored ethnic and cultural specificities, leading to discontentment and identity-based conflicts.
2. Influx of Migrants:
   • Demographic changes due to migration from neighboring states and countries have altered the social fabric of many states in the region.
3. Backwardness:
   • The region’s isolation, complex social structure, and relative backwardness compared to other parts of India contribute to demands for development and recognition.
4. International Borders:
   • The vast international borders and weak communication with the rest of India complicate politics in the region.
   • Issues such as demands for autonomy, secession movements, and opposition to outsiders are prominent due to the unique geopolitical position of the North-East.
5. Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA):
   • The application of AFSPA, initially enacted in 1958 to counter armed separatist movements in the Naga Hills, reflects the government’s reliance on military measures to address conflicts.
   • Its extension to all states in the Northeast, except for Mizoram, highlights the ongoing security challenges and the government’s approach to handling them.

Overall, addressing the challenges in North East India requires a comprehensive approach that considers historical grievances, ethnic diversity, development needs, and effective governance mechanisms to ensure peace, stability, and inclusive growth in the region.

The Assam crisis is rooted in multifaceted causes, including economic disparities, linguistic strife, illegal migration, and grievances related to state division:

1. Economic Reasons:
   • Underdevelopment and discrimination by the central government led to demands for greater economic opportunities and resource control.
   • Non-Assamese control over key industries and labor force created resentment and fueled demands for a fair share of revenues and employment opportunities.
2. Linguistic Strife:
   • Bengali influence in Assam’s governance and professions led to a sense of cultural dominance among Assamese speakers.
   • Movements demanding Assamese as the sole official language and medium of instruction exacerbated tensions between Assamese and Bengali speakers.
3. Illegal Migration Crisis:
   • Large-scale illegal migration, encouraged historically by various factors including British policies and post-partition demographics, led to insecurity and cultural displacement among the Assamese.
   • Demographic changes due to migration from Bangladesh and other regions intensified grievances and fueled movements against illegal migrants.
4. State Division Grievance:
   • Assamese identity and tribal assimilation were hindered by the central government’s decision to create smaller states, preventing the evolution of a broader Assamese identity.
5. Anti-Illegal Migration Movement:
   • The All Assam Students Union (AASU) and Assam Gana Sangram Parishad led initiatives against illegal migration, demanding border sealing, identification, and deportation of illegal aliens.
6. Political Turmoil (1979-1985):
   • The period saw political instability, collapse of state governments, and imposition of President’s Rule due to sustained agitation and violent protests against illegal migration.

Overall, the Assam crisis reflects complex socio-economic, linguistic, and demographic dynamics, resulting in significant political turmoil and unrest in the region. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive strategies that consider economic development, cultural sensitivities, and inclusive governance mechanisms.

Top of Form

The Assam Accord of 1985, signed by then-Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, addressed the long-standing issue of illegal migration into Assam and its socio-political repercussions:

1. Historical Context:
   • Migration into Assam dates back to the British era, with the encouragement of tea plantation workers. The influx escalated after the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, leading to significant demographic changes.
2. Anti-Illegal Migration Movement:
   • The All Assam Students Union (AASU) and Assam Gana Sangram Parishad initiated a massive movement demanding the sealing of borders, identification, and deletion of names of illegal aliens from voter lists.
3. Assam Accord Provisions:
   • The accord, signed on August 15, 1985, outlined several measures:
     • Foreigners who entered Assam between 1951 and 1961 were granted full citizenship rights, including voting rights.
     • Those entering between 1961 and 1971 were denied voting rights for ten years but retained other citizenship rights.
     • Migrants arriving after 1971 were to be deported.
     • Economic development initiatives, including a second oil refinery, a paper mill, and a technology institute, were promised.
     • Legislative and administrative safeguards were assured to protect Assamese identity and heritage.
4. Post-Accord Political Landscape:
   • Fresh elections in December 1985 saw the emergence of the Assam Gana Parishad (AGP), formed by leaders of the anti-foreigners movement, which came to power.

The Assam Accord aimed to address the grievances stemming from illegal migration by providing a framework for citizenship rights and economic development while safeguarding the cultural and linguistic identity of Assamese people. However, its full implementation faced challenges and criticisms over the years, highlighting the complexities of regionalism and migration issues in India.

Agrarian unrest during the Indira Gandhi period highlighted the complex challenges faced by the agricultural sector in India. Factors such as unequal distribution of resources, flawed land reforms, faulty pricing mechanisms, and inadequate implementation of welfare programs contributed to farmer discontent. The consequences of this unrest were felt both economically and socially, impacting farmers’ livelihoods and the overall stability of the country. While the government made efforts to address these issues, the solutions were often marred by inefficiencies and limitations. Acknowledging and understanding the causes and consequences of agrarian unrest during this period is crucial in shaping future agricultural policies and working towards more sustainable and inclusive growth in the farming sector.

FAQs

1. What is the Anandpur Sahib Resolution?

The Anandpur Sahib Resolution was a political manifesto adopted by the Shiromani Akali Dal in 1973. It outlined the demands of the Sikhs in India, primarily focusing on greater autonomy for Punjab and recognition of Sikh identity.

2. What were the key demands of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution?

The resolution demanded greater autonomy for Punjab in economic, fiscal, and political matters. It sought recognition of the distinct Sikh identity, safeguarding of Punjabi language and culture, and equitable distribution of resources.

3. What was the significance of the Anandpur Sahib Resolution in regional politics?

The resolution highlighted the grievances of Punjab and catalyzed a wave of regionalism, not only among Sikhs but also in other states seeking greater autonomy and recognition of their unique identities. It spurred debates on federalism and the balance of power between the central government and states.

4. Did the Anandpur Sahib Resolution lead to any significant political changes?

While the resolution itself wasn’t implemented, it intensified the demand for regional autonomy in various parts of India. It contributed to the broader discourse on federalism and regional identity, influencing subsequent political developments and shaping the dynamics of state-centre relations.

5. How did the Anandpur Sahib Resolution impact Indian politics in the long term?

The Anandpur Sahib Resolution underscored the importance of addressing regional aspirations within the framework of Indian federalism. It prompted discussions on decentralization and the need for a more accommodative approach towards diverse linguistic and cultural identities. Though it didn’t directly lead to immediate changes, it left a lasting imprint on Indian political thought and regional movements.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901. 

For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here

For Daily Updates and Study Material:

Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS

• 1. Learn through Videos – here
• 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
• 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
• 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here

Visit our YouTube Channel – here