Article 370, the root cause for divisive politics in Jammu and Kashmir was abrogated in 2019. The 2 new union territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir became a part of the Union of Indian states ever since then and the 800 Central laws of India applied to them as much as they applied to other parts of India. Republic Day in Jammu and Kashmir was celebrated for the first time in 2020, however, the celebration had no meaning for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. Rather, it was only a celebration on official pen and paper. However, the popularity of Republic Day celebrations have gradually seen a change in Jammu and Kashmir within a very short span of time.
Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir-Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir-Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir
Republic Day 2021: Silence and Hesitation Garnished with Some DissentRepublic Day, 2021 in India-administered Jammu and Kashmir was dramatic. Throughout the years, the day had been generally observed in Jammu and Kashmir, as a day for calling “bandhs” given the chances of sudden uproar and unrest. Several habitual protesters were called to the local police stations as a matter of habit every year during Republic Day to curb down violent protests. This year too, such protestors had to report at the local police stations. They stood silent on the Police station verandahs witnessing the Republic Day flag hoisting ceremony for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir not knowing whether they must look at the fluttering tricolor high up in the sky or look away. Silence and hesitation were the only two prevalent feelings. Zareef Ahmed, a separatist protests broke the silence by muttering, “Kashmiris are not with India and don’t have sentiments with this day. So why should we hoist their flag?” but the crowd had no response. It seemed that the sentiments of Jammu and Kashmir submitted to an alien flag-hoisting protocol.Republic Day 2022: A Elaborate Celebration Garnished with Some AssentManoj Sinha, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir said, “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendera Modi, J&K is on the path of peace, progress and development. All efforts are being made to take J&K to new heights and make it at par with any other State of India…I urge the youth of J&K to join the process of development and shape their future accordingly” while unfurling the Indian national flag. Some civilians and all public employees openly participated in the programmes organized. Few parts of important cities were dolled up with the National flag, however, in the background, internet connectivity was shut down to ensure peace and heavy security was deployed almost everywhere.Republic Day 2023: Jammu and Kashmir Tableau on the Kartavya PathThe Kartavya Path saw a vivid display of the special heritages from every State and UT on Republic Day 2023. The Jammu and Kashmir Tableau was titled, “Naya Jammu and Kashmir”. It featured artificial models of the endangered stag, Hangul besides the common leopard and Kalij pheasant, all found exclusively in Kashmir. The tableau also showcased Kashmiri women working in gardens of tulips and lavender. Even the local Republic Day celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir saw a wider audience than before.
Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir-Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir-Republic Day Celebration in Jammu and Kashmir
A Positive Way AheadThe Republic Day celebrations in Jammu and Kashmir is not only a matter of protocol to be followed at all places within the India territory. Its true spirit can be achieved only when coupled with the sense of nationalism. Kashmir is as much a loved part of India as any other region is. While India continues to open its arms and develop the sentiments of belongingness in the Kashmiri population for India, it can be very well noticed that Kashmir too has begun reciprocating to India at a gradual rate.For more updates keep visiting our website www.topstoriesworld.com where we provide unbiased, true and top stories of the world.