The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is a significant legislative proposal introduced by the Central government in the Lok Sabha with the aim to address the representation and development of specific marginalized communities in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. This bill seeks to nominate members from the “Kashmiri Migrants” community and those displaced from “Pakistan-occupied Kashmir” during the wars with Pakistan, to the Legislative Assembly.
Enhancing Representation for Marginalized Communities
The primary focus of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is to provide adequate representation to marginalized communities in the Legislative Assembly. According to the proposed bill, two members from the “Kashmiri Migrants” community will be nominated, ensuring that their voices and concerns are heard and represented in the decision-making process. Moreover, it is commendable that the bill guarantees one of the nominated members will be a woman, promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in the region’s governance.
Inclusion of Displaced Persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir
One of the essential aspects of the Bill is its provision to nominate a member from “Pakistan-occupied Kashmir,” who was displaced during the wars with Pakistan in 1947-48, 1965, and 1971. This move acknowledges the hardships faced by these individuals and seeks to provide them with a platform to have their perspectives represented in the Assembly. By doing so, the government aims to integrate these displaced persons into the democratic process and facilitate their socio-economic development within the Union Territory.
Preserving Political Rights and Equality
The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, is a testament to the government’s commitment to preserve and uphold the political rights of various marginalized communities. By granting them representation in the Legislative Assembly, the bill ensures that their interests are safeguarded and their issues are addressed on the floor of the House. This representation is vital in maintaining a pluralistic and inclusive political system in the region.
Abrogation of Article 370 and Delimitation Commission
In August 2019, the Indian Parliament revoked Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir. This decision resulted in the bifurcation of the region into two Union Territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh (without an Assembly).
Since 2018, Jammu and Kashmir has been under Central rule, delaying the much-awaited Assembly elections. The Delimitation Commission, tasked with determining the constituencies’ boundaries and reserved seats, received representations regarding seat reservations in the region. Following the commission’s recommendations, the total seats in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly increased from 107 to 114, with the addition of nine reserved seats for Scheduled Tribes for the first time.
Ensuring Equitable Development
The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2023, not only focuses on political representation but also emphasizes the social and economic development of marginalized communities. By giving them a platform in the Assembly, the bill aims to address their unique challenges and create policies and programs that foster inclusive growth.
