International relations specialists in Bangladesh feel that the decision by India to repeal the special privilege of Jammu and Kashmir is a strategic step. This risk also has massive dividends, feel political observers.
A diplomat, who served at the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi, says: “If Jammu and Kashmir unites with India, talks with Pakistan wont’ be necessary. This is similar to killing two birds with one stone, Pakistan will be cornered.”
During elections, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) made a promise to revoke the Kashmir related constitutional clause 370. And after winning, the party has implemented the promise within three months.
Another diplomat who worked at the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi, observes: “This is a strategic move; the downside is that this may fuel militancy and extremism.”
Fishing in troubled waters may trigger complications, added the diplomat.
The Indian government notice declaring the revocation of clause 370 of the constitution which gave Kashmir a degree of autonomy is signed by President Ram Nath Kovind.
In a Twitter post, former chief minister of Kashmir, Mehbooba Mufti, has said that this decision proves India as an occupying force in Kashmir.
On Aug 7, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation on the matter. Before the recent decision to abrogate autonomy, withdraw special status and divide Kashmir, India mobilized armed forces in the area. In the last one week, more than 35,000 law enforcers/para-military were deployed in Kashmir.
The law enforcers were deployed in the capital Srinagar, Kashmir valley and in the rural areas. Mobile Internet has been suspended with restrictions imposed on rallies and meetings.
From Sunday (Aug 4) night, former chief minister Mehbuba Mufti and Omar Abdullah are kept under house arrest by the Indian authority.
Chairman of the People’s Conference Party, Sajjad Lone is also under house arrest.
From Sunday midnight, 144 was imposed on Srinagar.