SRINAGAR: The All India Muslim Majlis-e-Mushawarat (AIMMM), a prominent representative body for various Muslim organisations across India, has outlined a comprehensive and progressive roadmap aimed at fostering stability and growth in Jammu and Kashmir following the upcoming Assembly elections.
Reports appearing in the media suggest the AIMMM commended both the Government of India and the Election Commission for their dedication to ensuring free, fair, and independent elections. However, the organisation also expressed concerns over allegations of pre-poll manipulations that could potentially marginalise the voices of the region’s Muslim majority in the electoral process.
A key issue highlighted by the AIMMM was the impact of the Delimitation Commission’s recent decisions, which have increased the number of seats in Hindu-majority areas from 24 to 31. The organisation noted that this, along with the nomination of additional members, raises significant concerns regarding the fair representation of the Muslim community, which constitutes a considerable portion of the electorate.
The AIMMM argued that such measures if intended to empower minority populations, must be applied uniformly across India to ensure that all minorities receive equitable political representation. “The current formula, if allowed to proceed unchecked, will create a disproportionate representation that undermines the democratic values we strive for,” an AIMMM spokesperson warned.
The spokesperson further elaborated on the imbalance in the proposed assembly, noting that, in a 95-member body, the Hindu minority, which represents 28 per cent of the population, should reasonably hold 29 seats, yet the current framework does not reflect this proportionate representation.
To address these pressing concerns and promote lasting peace, the AIMMM has outlined several key recommendations in their proposed roadmap:
The AIMMM strongly urged the government to reinstate Jammu and Kashmir as a full-fledged state, in accordance with the aspirations of its people. The organisation stressed that this move would empower local institutions and enable governance that is more attuned to the region’s unique needs.
The AIMMM called for a reduction in the administrative powers of the Governor, allowing elected representatives to function effectively. This step is viewed as essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring that elected officials can make critical decisions without undue interference. Meanwhile, AIMMM has called for a judicial inquiry into ongoing mob violence and hate crimes against Muslims, while condemning the use of bulldozers in punitive actions. The organisation also voiced concern over the delay in granting bail to Muslim activists detained in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots.
At its annual meeting, AIMMM, a federation representing prominent Muslim organisations, discussed key issues affecting the Muslim community. Resolutions were passed on topics such as mob lynching, the politics of hatred, anti-minority economic policies, shrinking opportunities for Muslims in budget allocations, the CBSE’s anti-Urdu stance, and the Waqf Amendment Bill. The meeting also focused on the injustices faced by Muslims detained in the Delhi riots cases and the volatile situations in Assam and Uttar Pradesh.
Key speakers, including AIMMM President Feroz Ahmed Advocate and former MP Shahid Siddiqui, highlighted the need for unity among minorities and better coordination among Muslim MPs and MLAs. The AIMMM formed a parliamentary sub-committee to address these concerns and stressed the importance of fighting against the state’s hostile attitude towards minorities.
Additionally, the AIMMM condemned the “Bulldozer Rule” as a move towards authoritarianism, demanding justice for the victims of such actions. The organisation also criticised the BJP government in Assam for discriminatory policies against Muslims and raised concerns over reduced minority welfare budgets and CBSE’s policies affecting Urdu students.
On an international front, the AIMMM strongly condemned Israel’s military actions against civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, calling attention to the destruction of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools.
The resolutions underscored the need for justice, equitable political representation, and socio-economic development for Muslims in India.
The roadmap recommends a reassessment and scaling back of the extensive surveillance measures currently in place. The AIMMM believes that easing such restrictions would be vital in rebuilding trust between citizens and authorities.
AIMMM emphasised the importance of releasing political leaders and activists who have been detained without substantial charges. An open and unrestricted political space, they argued, is crucial for promoting healthy discourse and resolving conflicts.
The organisation demanded the removal of restrictions on both local and national media, stressing that a free press is essential for ensuring transparency and maintaining an informed citizenry.
The AIMMM urged the government to prioritise infrastructure projects that generate employment and improve the living standards of all communities within Jammu and Kashmir. They called for inclusive economic growth initiatives that benefit all segments of society, fostering unity and progress.
Promoting civil society initiatives that focus on social cohesion and peace-building was another key recommendation. Additionally, the AIMMM highlighted the need for educational exchanges to bridge cultural and communal divides, fostering a greater sense of unity.
