Introduction
In August 2019, the Indian government announced the revocation of Article 370 which gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The region was bifurcated into two union territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. As a result, the political map of India was redrawn, and the new map excluded the areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) from the region of J&K. In this article, we will discuss the new political map of India, with a focus on J&K and Ladakh.
What is the New Political Map of India?
The new political map of India was released by the government in November 2019. It shows the boundaries of India’s 28 states and 8 union territories. The map also shows the newly formed union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. However, the map excludes the areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and PoK from the region of J&K.
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir
The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir consists of the regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The region of Jammu is predominantly Hindu, while the region of Kashmir is predominantly Muslim. Ladakh is a Buddhist-majority region. The region of Jammu and Kashmir has been a disputed territory between India and Pakistan for several decades.
The Union Territory of Ladakh
The union territory of Ladakh consists of two districts – Leh and Kargil. The region is predominantly Buddhist, with a minority of Muslims. Ladakh is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular tourist destination.
Why Was Article 370 Revoked?
Article 370 gave special status to J&K, allowing it to have its own constitution, flag, and autonomy over certain matters. The Indian government argued that this special status had hindered the development of the region and had led to separatism. The revocation of Article 370 was aimed at integrating J&K with the rest of India and bringing development to the region.
What Happened After Article 370 Was Revoked?
The revocation of Article 370 was met with protests and opposition in J&K and other parts of India. The government imposed a curfew and suspended internet and phone services in the region. Several political leaders were arrested, and the region was placed under central rule. The government has since eased restrictions and restored some services in the region.
What is the Current Situation in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh?
The situation in J&K and Ladakh remains tense. There are reports of human rights violations and violence in the region. The government has announced several development projects and initiatives to bring peace and prosperity to the region. However, the region continues to be a disputed territory between India and Pakistan.
Conclusion
The revocation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of J&K into two union territories have redrawn the political map of India. The new map excludes the areas of Gilgit-Baltistan and PoK from the region of J&K. The situation in J&K and Ladakh remains tense, and the region continues to be a disputed territory between India and Pakistan. The government has announced several initiatives to bring peace and development to the region, but it remains to be seen how successful they will be.