JK Militancy refers to the long-standing insurgency and armed conflict that has persisted in the region of Jammu and Kashmir (JK), a disputed territory between India and Pakistan. Spanning several decades, JK Militancy has been characterized by a complex web of political, social, and religious factors, with various militant groups operating in the region, each with its own agenda and objectives. Rooted in historical grievances and territorial disputes, the conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, displacement of populations, and ongoing tensions between the neighboring nations. The intricacies of JK Militancy continue to pose challenges for peace-building efforts and regional stability, with its repercussions extending far beyond the borders of the region itself.
The deteriorating situation in Kashmir in December 1989 marked a turning point in the region’s conflict:
- Kidnapping of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s Daughter:
- Militants belonging to the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) kidnapped the daughter of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, who was the Union home minister at the time. The Centre yielded to JKLF’s demands and released jailed militants, setting a precedent for future concessions.
- Emergence of Hizb-ul Mujahideen:
- Another militant group, the Hizb-ul Mujahideen, led by Syed Salauddin, gained prominence and aimed for a more hardline Islamic regime in Kashmir. Salauddin, disillusioned by mainstream politics after the 1987 elections, joined the militant cause.
- Escalation of Violence:
- Militants intensified their attacks, targeting banks, police stations, and security forces. The Centre responded by deploying forces to quell the unrest and appointed Jagmohan as the governor of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Rise of Jihadist Sentiment:
- The conflict increasingly took on a religious dimension, with militants invoking jihad (holy war) as a rallying cry. This religious fervor attracted support from segments of the Kashmiri population sympathetic to their cause.
- Targeting of Hindu Minority:
- As violence escalated, the Hindu minority, particularly the Kashmiri Pandits, became targets of militant attacks. Many Pandits were killed, leading to a mass exodus from the Kashmir Valley to safer areas like Jammu. This forced displacement turned them into refugees in their own homeland, with lingering fears preventing their return.
The events of December 1989 underscored the deepening polarization and violence in Kashmir, with religious identity playing an increasingly significant role in the conflict. The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits symbolized the tragic human toll of the escalating strife in the region.
JK Militancy
Chandra Shekhar’s tenure as Prime Minister from November 1990 to June 1991 was marked by political instability and challenges:
- Formation of Samajwadi Janata Party:
- In response to the impending collapse of the V.P. Singh government, Chandra Shekhar and Devi Lal parted ways with the Janata Dal to establish the Samajwadi Janata Party. This move was supported by several other politicians.
- Congress Support:
- With only 64 MPs, Chandra Shekhar led a minority government. The Congress party, reminiscent of its support to Charan Singh’s government in the past, offered external support to Chandra Shekhar’s administration.
- Confidence Motion:
- Chandra Shekhar faced a confidence motion in Parliament and managed to secure victory, enabling him to assume office as Prime Minister on November 10, 1990.
Despite the challenges posed by leading a minority government, Chandra Shekhar’s brief tenure saw efforts to navigate the complexities of Indian politics. However, the political landscape remained turbulent, setting the stage for further developments in the coming months.
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