By 1989, the State was in the grip of a militant movement for a separate Kashmiri nation.
The assembly election of 1987 unfolded amusing results. Official results showcased a significant triumph for the National Conference-Congress alliance, reinstating Farooq Abdullah as Chief Minister. Yet, widespread belief persisted that the election outcomes did not truly reflect the people's choice, alleging the election process to be riddled with manipulation. Simultaneously, growing public resentment against ineffective governance since the early 1980s coupled with the perception that democratic processes were eroding under state and central influences led to a burgeoning political crisis in Kashmir. This crisis escalated considerably with the ascent of insurgency.
By 1989, the State was ensnared in a militant movement rallying behind the cause of an autonomous Kashmiri entity. These insurgents garnered support from Pakistan in moral, material, and military dimensions. For several years, the State came under the purview of President's rule and was largely controlled by the armed forces. Throughout the span starting from 1990, Jammu and Kashmir endured significant violence initiated both by the insurgents and through military actions. Notably, Assembly elections in the State were only held in 1996, wherein Farooq Abdullah's National Conference claimed power, advocating for regional autonomy. As this term concluded, State elections were conducted in 2002. The National Conference's majority loss led to the formation of a coalition government comprising the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and the Congress. |
