Adopted at the National Meeting of All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat
Date: 21st September, 2024
The All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat (AIMMM), the only confederation of Muslim organizations and personalities of eminence in India, calls upon the Government of India to consider a progressive roadmap for Jammu and Kashmir following the upcoming elections.
While we commend the government and the Election Commission that so far it has ensured free, fair and independent conduct elections and a level playing field has been ensured for all the parties, there is need to look a road map after the elections. There have been allegations of pre-poll manipulations that have ensured that a majority Muslim population will have lesser voice in the forthcoming Assembly. Such an impression needs to be addressed.
Like the Delimitation Commission, granting more seats to Hindu minority population regions, and giving Lt. Governor power to nominate five more members, out of which three will be definitely Hindus, two Kashmiri Pandits and one refugees, who migrated from Pakistani territories in 1947.
While it is commendable to allow more minority voices in the forthcoming assembly, it does not serve purpose to have a disproportionate representation.
As per population of Jammu and Kashmir, where minority Hindu population comprises 28%, they should get their due share that is in 95-member assembly their share should be 29.
But the way Delimitation Commission has favored Hindu majority regions and seats there have been increased from 24 to 31 and along with nominated members this number becomes disproportionate to their population.
If this formula is to empower minority population, then it needs to be implemented all over India, so that minorities in other states are also politically empowered. Currently there are just 24 Muslim MPs, who should have been 74. And with the Kashmir formula implanted all over the country, their number could be around 200.
Apart from this, we believe that a collaborative approach will pave the way for lasting peace, prosperity, and democratic integrity in Jammu and Kashmir.
We recommend:
1. Restoration of Statehood:
Immediate Action: Reinstate Jammu and Kashmir’s status as a full-fledged state to honor the aspirations of its people.
Rationale: Statehood will empower local institutions and facilitate better governance aligned with the unique needs of the region.
2. Empowerment of the Elected Government:
Reduce Governor’s Powers: Limit the administrative powers of the Governor to allow the elected government to function effectively.
Strengthen Democracy: Ensuring that elected representatives have the authority to make decisions will reinforce democratic values.
3. Reduction of Surveillance:
Scale Back Monitoring: Reevaluate and reduce excessive surveillance measures imposed on the populace.
Promote Trust: Alleviating the atmosphere of scrutiny will help rebuild trust between citizens and authorities.
4. Restoration of Political Freedom:
Release Detainees: Free political leaders and activists who have been detained without substantial charges.
Encourage Dialogue: Open political space is essential for healthy discourse and conflict resolution.
5. Freedom of the Press:
Lift Media Restrictions: Remove limitations imposed on local and national media in the region.
Ensure Transparency: A free press is vital for accountability and informed citizenry.
6. Socio-Economic Development:
Invest in Infrastructure: Prioritize projects that generate employment and improve living standards.
Inclusive Growth: Economic development should benefit all communities, fostering unity and progress.
1. Community Engagement:
Promote Civil Society Initiatives: Support organizations working towards social cohesion and peace-building.
Educational Programs: Encourage educational exchanges and programs that bridge cultural and communal gaps.
The AIMMM stand committed to the welfare of Jammu and Kashmir and believes that these steps are crucial for creating a harmonious and prosperous future.
We urge the government to take these recommendations into serious consideration and work collaboratively with all stakeholders.
We envision a Jammu and Kashmir where:
Communities live together in peace, mutual respect, and understanding.
Every individual enjoys fundamental rights and freedoms.
Democratic institutions function without undue interference.
The media operates freely, contributing to transparency and accountability.
The All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat is dedicated to promoting justice, democracy, and communal harmony throughout India. We believe in constructive dialogue and collaboration to address the challenges facing our nation.
(Proposed by: Mr. Iftikhar Gilani)