Sun Jul 13 20:13:14 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the article and a rewritten version as a news article:
**Summary:**
The article discusses the current situation in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), focusing on the need for the Indian government to restore statehood and empower elected representatives. While there has been progress in infrastructure development and a decline in violence under the Lieutenant Governor’s rule, political uncertainty remains. The author argues that restoring statehood and engaging with mainstream political leaders like Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti is crucial for long-term peace and stability. The article highlights the potential risks of delaying statehood, including growing public apprehension, a widening regional divide, and the possibility of renewed unrest.
**News Article:**
**J&K Statehood Delay Fuels Apprehension, Risks Stability, Warns Analyst**
**Srinagar, July 14, 2025** – While Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has seen improvements in infrastructure and security under the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, continued delays in restoring statehood are fueling public apprehension and could jeopardize the region’s stability, according to a new analysis.
Anando Bhakto, writing in *The Hindu,* highlights the progress made in J&K, noting improved transportation, a decline in civilian killings, and increased business activity. However, Bhakto cautions that these gains are threatened by the lack of a clear political roadmap and the central government’s hesitancy to empower elected leaders.
The Supreme Court recommended the restoration of statehood in December 2023, but without a firm deadline. Bhakto argues the time to act is now, particularly after the participation of Kashmir Valley in last year’s Assembly elections, which demonstrated a desire for regional leadership.
“A population reckoning with bureaucratic rule wanted to empower a regional leader,” Bhakto writes. “New Delhi ought to engage with and empower a Chief Minister elected with a historic mandate.”
The article stresses the importance of engaging with established political figures like Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, rather than attempting to cultivate political proxies. Abdullah, while credited with repairing ties with New Delhi, has reportedly expressed frustration with his limited authority.
The lack of a political roadmap is also exacerbating the regional divide between Kashmir Valley and Jammu, as highlighted by recent incidents of mob violence. Bhakto calls for the establishment of a State Human Rights Commission and a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address these tensions.
The article concludes with a call for political reciprocity, urging the BJP, the dominant party in Jammu, to follow the National Conference’s lead in promoting inter-regional cooperation.
“There is hardly time for procrastination,” Bhakto warns, emphasizing the urgency of restoring statehood and empowering elected representatives to build a stable and prosperous future for J&K.
First Piper 