India, a Threat to Global Peace and Stability

Just recently, India had taken a radical move by amending their constitution to revoke the special status of Jammu Kashmir region through an act of “Indianization”, and had further divided the province into two separate regions. Such action is a straightforward “annexation” of a state, despite all explication by the international community.

The abolishment of Article 370 in their constitution is one of the most important event in this history of India Constitution, as it will not only increase regional tension, but it will be a tormenting ordeal for the people of the region whom had suffered much throughout the 70 years conflicts and it would further destabilize the pursuit for world peace.

A more holistic and equitable solution in accordance to UN resolutions are direly required to counter India’s actions, as it was not in accordance with any international law, void of any reasonable thought, and have serious consequences on regional peace and stability. If the international community does not react as effectively as the case of unjust annexation of Crimea, this immoral decision will forever be remembered as one of the most illicit incident in political history.

The abolition of Article 370 explicitly stripped the region from all of its rights. Article 370 of India Constitution had provided the state of Jammu Kashmir with their own autonomy for 70 years. Under that article, the state had the right to have its own constitution, a separate flag, and independent policies; aside from the matters relating to foreign affairs, defense, and communications. Subsequent to paragraph 35A of the article, the state administration had the right to grant permanent residence permit to anyone that were approved by the administration, and also to grant them with a range of rights, such as working in government offices or even acquiring properties.

Concurrently, the article guaranteed the diverse demographic structure of the province, which is mostly Muslim. The decision to change the demographic structure will surely have very dangerous consequences in this 21st century, as it will endanger the already delicate peace in South Asia.

Furthermore, the division of the region into two more regions, Jammu and Ladakh, will lead to more convolution in the region, where comprehensive and peaceful solution is seriously needed.

In these states, the main objective should be to ensure social peace as soon as possible, so that innocent people does not become victims of the conflict and the principles of peace are adhered to. The assaults by the dark and corrupt intents can only be resisted with unifying and peaceful approach.

The solution of this problem should be handled in accordance to international law, both for the welfare and peace of the people of the region and for world peace; and the international community should be insisting for the resolution of this crisis. To have India gave up from this kind of attitude would open more doors for the solution of more urgent issues.

One of the most important principles of the UN Charter, “Every society have a right to self-determination”, emphasizes that no civilian population should ever be dictated. The decision of the people of Jammu and Kashmir region through two referendums should be respected by the international community and be carried out by India without any delay.

Kashmir is not a place that can be shaped by the wishes of any wishful plans and dirty games. In order to ensure peace and stability in the region, both UN and international institutions should effectively work together in every way possible to ensure a swift resolution of this crisis.

The Union of NGOs of the Islamic World (UNIW) urges and believes that it is essential for India to maintain peace and stability through joint dialogues and collective resolution, and we invite all parties to behave conscientiously and in responsible manner to ensure peace and stability.

This statement is respectfully announced to the public.