Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced on Tuesday that the central government is contemplating the possibility of repealing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in Jammu and Kashmir.
During an interview with the JK Media Group, Shah revealed the government's intention to withdraw troops from the Union Territory (UT) and entrust law and order responsibilities solely to the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
"We are strategizing to withdraw troops and entrust law enforcement entirely to the Jammu and Kashmir Police. Previously, there was a lack of trust in the Jammu and Kashmir police, but now they are at the forefront of operations," Shah stated.
Regarding the contentious AFSPA, the home minister expressed willingness to reconsider its application, highlighting its broad powers granted to armed forces personnel in disturbed areas, including search, arrest, and the use of force for public order maintenance.
Shah emphasized the government's commitment to democracy in Jammu and Kashmir, affirming that assembly elections would be conducted before September, fulfilling Prime Minister Narendra Modi's pledge to establish a people's democracy, inclusive beyond a few influential families.
Addressing concerns about reservations for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Shah noted significant strides made by the Modi government, particularly in granting OBC reservations and one-third reservation for women. He underscored efforts to accommodate displaced persons from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and marginalized communities without compromising existing quotas.
Shah dismissed opposition from leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, accusing them of attempting to sow discord over reservation policies. He questioned their credibility, pointing out historical negligence towards providing reservations to marginalized communities.
Highlighting progress in curbing terrorism and promoting peace, Shah emphasized a significant decline in incidents of stone-pelting and terrorist activities, attributing the positive trend to collaborative efforts and support from the local population.
In urging Kashmiri youths to resist Pakistani influence, Shah asserted India's determination to reclaim territories unlawfully occupied by Pakistan, emphasizing the inclusive identity of Indian citizens regardless of religious affiliation.
Shah concluded by lauding Prime Minister Modi's leadership in fostering security and welfare measures, including employment opportunities for families of martyred security personnel, as a testament to the government's commitment to national security and welfare.
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