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Futile debate over autonomy

Kashmir Times. Dated: 6/20/2013 11:55:42 PM

Dear Editor,
All plaint state dispensations in J&K right from the day one have all along proved lame duck regimes, which by itself negates the very spirit of special status granted under Article 370 of Indian constitution. The special status has been eroded beyond redemption by power crazy mainstream traditional ruling cliques. Poll boycott/ rigged election reveal that representatives in this state have never been free to exercise constitutional authority even on matters of less significance without tacit approval and consent of central mentors. Rigged elections and accords with Congress high command have not let democracy percolate to state beyond Lakhanpur. All other states which have no distinction of enjoying special status are powerful and free in the state affairs without any influence from New Delhi.
After reaching Indira-Sheikh Abdullah accord in the year 1975, Sheikh Abdullah on taking over the reins of state government, made a public declaration that all black laws would be scrapped. But ever since his party, whenever in power, has added more draconian laws in the kitty of state government.
Prof. Soz should procure a copy of the Accord from Congress high command for jogging his weak memory before suggesting strengthening Article 370 and bringing it to pristine position. He has also invited NC for dialogue on autonomy issue, which is a nonstarter besides being not within his capacity and authority. Narasimha Rao, Ex-PM, once said everything can be granted and sky is the limit. All mess in the state is a creation of politicians who mislead the people and the nation for pretty political gains.
—Ahmad Ullah, Srinagar.