Stark contrast between J&K’s two sides underscores fact that governance models matter

New Delhi, Aug 5 (IANS) The topography appears the same on both sides, the people similar, yet divided in fate. The difference is stark. Pakistan’s political and military masters have perpetuated repression and stagnation on one side, leaving its people marginalised and voiceless. The other side has embraced integration, introduced infrastructure expansion, and improved governance, offering its citizens opportunities for growth and empowerment.

Pakistan‑occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has for decades been a region marked by volatility, repression, and neglect.

The governance structure imposed by the political leaders in Islamabad and the military rulers from Rawalpindi is deeply centralised, leaving little space for local autonomy.

The so‑called “Azad Jammu and Kashmir” Assembly operates under severe constraints, with candidates required to pledge allegiance to Pakistan and its military establishment. This has created a political environment where dissent is criminalised and genuine representation is absent.

The volatility of the region is evident in incessant mass protests.

In May 2024, widespread demonstrations re-erupted across PoJK against soaring electricity tariffs and food shortages.

Security forces responded with renewed aggressiveness, leading to multiple civilian deaths.

Pakistan military’s heavy presence ensures that political life is subordinated to strategic interests, particularly the use of PoJK as a base for cross‑border militancy.

This militarisation has left ordinary citizens trapped between repression and instability.

Economically, PoJK remains a laggard compared to its Indian counterpart.

The region has been historically neglected in terms of infrastructure development and its GDP contribution to Pakistan is negligible, and development indicators are dismal.

According to Pakistan’s own Bureau of Statistics, unemployment in PoJK is significantly higher than the national average, with youth unemployment estimated at more than 30 per cent.

Infrastructure is rudimentary: there is no railway connectivity, road networks are poorly maintained, and electricity shortages are chronic.

Transport in PoJK relies almost entirely on road networks, many of which are poorly maintained and vulnerable to landslides and seasonal disruptions.

The Karakoram Highway, often highlighted as a strategic asset under the China‑Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), passes through Gilgit‑Baltistan but is designed primarily for trade and military logistics rather than serving the everyday needs of local communities.

These projects are designed to serve strategic and commercial interests of Islamabad and Beijing rather than improve livelihoods in PoJK.

Healthcare facilities are underfunded, with doctor‑patient ratios far below national standards, and education suffers from poor investment, leading to high dropout rates.

Women’s participation in the workforce is minimal, reflecting both cultural constraints and lack of opportunity.

Natural resources, including hydropower potential, are exploited for Pakistan’s benefit, while residents face shortages and rising tariffs.

In sharp contrast, Jammu and Kashmir in India has undergone a remarkable transformation since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019.

The reorganisation into Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh enabled deeper integration with national development schemes and direct central investment.

Infrastructure expansion has been a defining feature where the Chenab Bridge, completed in 2023, is the world’s highest railway bridge and symbolises India’s commitment to connecting Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country.

The Udhampur‑Srinagar‑Baramulla rail link is nearing completion, promising seamless connectivity.

Road networks have been modernised under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, and Srinagar International Airport has been upgraded to handle increased tourist inflows.

Governance has also improved with Panchayati Raj institutions been empowered, enabling grassroots democracy.

Transparency initiatives, such as e‑governance platforms, have reduced corruption and improved service delivery.

Schemes like Ayushman Bharat have expanded healthcare access. Education has seen investment in new universities, skill development centers, and IT parks, opening opportunities for the youth.

Tourism has become a major driver of growth, with record numbers of visitors boosting hospitality, handicrafts, and transport sectors.

Industrial investment is flowing in, with agro‑industrial projects, renewable energy initiatives, and IT infrastructure creating jobs.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has announced investment proposals worth more than Rs 50,000 crore, signaling confidence in the region’s stability and potential.

Meanwhile, women’s participation increased, with self‑help groups and entrepreneurship schemes empowering them economically.

The youth, once vulnerable to militancy, are now being absorbed into mainstream economic activity through skill development programs and sports initiatives.

The contrast underscores the fact that governance models matter. Where democratic accountability and decentralisation foster development, militarisation and repression breed volatility and neglect.

–IANS

jb/khz