Regional aspirations - Class 12 Political Science - Chapter 7 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
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Extra Questions - Regional aspirations | Politics in India Since Independence | Political Science | Class 12
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Match the following.
A Nature of regional aspirations | B States |
---|---|
(a) Socio-religious identity | i. Nagaland /Mizoram leading to statehood |
(b) Linguistic identity and tensions with Centre | ii. Jharkhand /Chattisgarh |
(c) Regional imbalance leading to demand for Statehood | iii. Punjab |
(d) Secessionist demands on account of tribal identity | iv. Tamil Nadu |
(a) Socio-religious identity - iii. Punjab
(b) Linguistic identity and tensions with Centre - iv. Tamil Nadu
(c) Regional imbalance leading to demand for Statehood - ii. Jharkhand /Chhattisgarh
(d) Secessionist demands on account of tribal identity - i. Nagaland /Mizoram
Regional aspirations of the people of North-East get expressed in different ways. These include movements against outsiders, movement for greater autonomy and movement for separate national existence. On the map of the North-East, using different shades for these three, show the States where these expressions are prominently found.
Unfortunately, I can't generate maps or graphical images. However, I can describe how these movements are distributed across the North-East:
Movements against Outsiders: Prominently found in Assam, where there has been significant opposition to illegal immigration, primarily from Bangladesh. This movement concerns socio-economic issues like employment and cultural identity.
Movements for Greater Autonomy: Visible in states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Tripura where ethnic communities seek greater control over their local governance through autonomous councils or greater state powers within the Indian Union.
Movements for Separate National Existence: Most notable in Nagaland and previously in Mizoram, where there have been demands for separate nationhood, although the situation in Mizoram has largely resolved through political agreements.
These delineations represent general trends and actual conditions can be more complex with overlapping issues in some regions.
What were the main provisions of the Punjab accord? In what way can they be the basis for further tensions between the Punjab and its neighbouring States?
The Punjab Accord, also known as the Rajiv Gandhi - Longowal Accord of 1985, included several key provisions:
Transfer of Chandigarh to Punjab.
Set up a commission to resolve the border dispute between Punjab and Haryana.
Creation of a tribunal for reallocating the waters of the Ravi and Beas rivers among Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Compensation and rehabilitation for victims of violence and the withdrawal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act in Punjab.
These provisions could form the basis for further tensions as they involve sharing of critical resources like water and territorial adjustments, which might be contested by the neighboring states of Haryana and Rajasthan, potentially leading to inter-state disputes.
Why did the Anandpur Sahib Resolution become controversial?
The Anandpur Sahib Resolution became controversial because it asserted regional autonomy for Punjab, seeking to redefine center-state relations in India. It highlighted the aspirations of the Sikh qaum (community), and aimed for the bolbala (dominance or hegemony) of Sikhs, which were perceived by many as demanding too much autonomy that could lead to secession. The resolution’s emphasis on both autonomy and Sikh dominance raised fears about the unity and integrity of the Indian state, making it a contentious issue in national politics.
Explain the internal divisions of the State of Jammu and Kashmir and describe how these lead to multiple regional aspirations in that State.
Jammu and Kashmir comprises three distinct regions: Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, each with unique social and political characteristics. Jammu is diverse with a majority of Hindus, but also homes Muslims, Sikhs, and others. Kashamed Valley, predominantly inhabited by Kashmiri Muslims, has significant minority communities such as Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. Ladakh is sparsely populated, divided almost equally between Buddhists and Muslims.
The differing demographics and political inclinations contribute to varied regional aspirations. For example, while there might be stronger pro-India sentiment in Jammu and Ladakh, significant sections in Kashmir have historically harbored sentiments for greater autonomy or independence. This diversity leads to complex political dynamics and challenges in addressing regional aspirations uniformly within the state.
What are the various positions on the issue of regional autonomy for Kashmir? Which of these do you think are justifiable? Give reasons for your answer.
The issue of regional autonomy for Kashmir involves three major positions:
Integrationist View: Some believe that the special status under Article 370 prevented full integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India, advocating for its revocation to treat J&K like any other Indian state.
Status Quo Supporters: Another section, particularly many Kashmiris, felt that the autonomy granted by Article 370 was insufficient. They demanded a restoration of fuller autonomy, citing erosions over time and non-fulfillment of democratic practices similar to other Indian states.
Secessionists: A more extreme position is the demand from some groups for total independence or secession from India.
From a democratic and constitutional perspective, the Status Quo Supporters' position is justifiable. It aligns with constitutional guarantees originally provided under Article 370 to maintain Kashmir's special status, recognizing the unique circumstances of its accession to India. This viewpoint supports regional autonomy while maintaining national integrity, following democratic processes to address specific regional concerns and historical contexts.
The Assam movement was a combination of cultural pride and economic backwardness. Explain.
The Assam Movement was fundamentally driven by a combination of cultural pride and economic concerns. Culturally, the indigenous Assamese feared being turned into a minority in their own state due to the influx of illegal immigrants, primarily Bengali-speaking Muslims from Bangladesh. This threatened their cultural identity and linguistic heritage. Economically, Assam, despite being rich in resources like oil, tea, and coal, faced poverty and unemployment. The locals felt that the wealth generated was not benefiting them but was instead being drained out to other parts of India, compounding feelings of economic neglect and exploitation. Together, these cultural and economic grievances fueled the Assam Movement.
All regional movements need not lead to separatist demands. Explain by giving examples from this chapter.
All regional movements do not necessarily lead to separatist demands.
For example:
The Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu evolved over time primarily through democratic protests and electoral politics rather than seeking outright separation from India. Eventually, Dravidian parties like the DMK and AIADMK focused on regional pride while actively participating in India's national democratic framework.
In Sikkim, the movement led by the Sikkim Congress initially sought greater integration with India rather than independence. This ultimately resulted in Sikkim becoming an Indian state through democratic processes, including a referendum.
These examples highlight that regional aspirations can aim for enhanced autonomy and recognition within the existing national boundary, instead of pushing for separatism.
Regional demands from different parts of India exemplify the principle of unity with diversity. Do you agree? Give reasons.
Yes, regional demands from different parts of India do exemplify the principle of unity with diversity. The Indian Constitution and democratic framework allow for the expression of diverse regional aspirations while maintaining national unity. Regions express unique cultural, economic, and political needs, and the central and state governments often address these through negotiated agreements and policy accommodations, such as the formation of new states or special constitutional provisions. This democratic approach acknowledges and respects diversity, fostering a sense of inclusion and participation, crucial for the unity and integrity of the nation.
Read the passage and answer the questions below:
One of Hazarika’s songs.. … dwells on the unity theme; the seven states of north-eastern India become seven sisters born of the same mother. …. ‘Meghalaya went own way…., Arunachal too separated and Mizoram appeared in Assam’s gateway as a groom to marry another daughter.’ ….. …. .. The song ends with a determination to keep the unity of the Assamese with other smaller nationalities that are left in the present-day Assam – ‘the Karbis and the Missing brothers and sisters are our dear ones.’ — Sanjiab Baruah
(a) Which unity is the poet talking about?
(b) Why were some States of North-East created separately out of the erstwhile State of Assam?
(c) Do you think that the same theme of unity could apply to all the regions of India? Why?
(a) The poet is talking about the unity among the northeastern states of India, often referred to as the "seven sisters," despite their political separation into individual states.
(b) Some states of North-East were created separately out of the erstwhile state of Assam to provide political autonomy and recognition to the distinct ethnic, cultural, and linguistic identities of the various indigenous communities in the region. This was intended to address regional aspirations and reduce ethnic conflicts.
(c) Yes, the theme of unity can apply to all regions of India. India's national identity is built on the principle of "unity in diversity," where regional, linguistic, and cultural diversity coexist with a sense of national identity. Promoting unity among diverse groups strengthens the nation's cohesion and inclusivity.
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Comprehensive Guide to Regional Aspirations: Class 12 Notes
Regional aspirations are a crucial part of understanding the political landscape of India. Let's delve into the various aspects of regional aspirations, how they have shaped Indian politics, and the responses they have elicited from the Indian state.
Introduction to Regional Aspirations
Definition and Importance
Regional aspirations refer to the political, economic, and cultural demands made by populations in specific regions, often seeking greater autonomy or recognition within the nation's framework. These aspirations are significant as they reflect the diversity and complexity of India's social fabric.
Expression of Regional Aspirations
Regional aspirations are usually expressed in the local language and directed towards the local populace or authorities. For example, the Uttarakhand movement used posters appealing to Indian citizens in multiple languages, highlighting the harmony between regional and national sentiments.
Historical Context
Post-Independence Nation-Building
After gaining Independence in 1947, India embarked on a journey of nation-building. However, this process continually faced challenges, including regional aspirations for autonomy or even secession.
Rise in the 1980s
The 1980s marked a significant period for regional movements as the Janata Party experiment ended, leading to political stability at the centre but rising regional tensions. Major conflicts arose in states such as Assam, Punjab, and Mizoram and developments in Jammu and Kashmir.
Major Regional Movements
Uttarakhand Movement
The Uttarakhand movement is notable for its broad appeal to Indian citizens in several languages, underscoring the compatibility between regional and national aspirations.
Dravidian Movement
The Dravidian movement in Tamil Nadu initially aimed at creating a separate Dravidian nation. However, it eventually used democratic means like public debates and elections to achieve its goals, leading to significant political power within the state and at the national level.
Jammu and Kashmir Issues
Jammu and Kashmir have a complex history of regional aspirations, especially given its special status under Article 370. The region has faced insurgency and political instability, significantly affecting its socio-political landscape.
Special Status under Article 370
Before its abrogation in 2019, Article 370 granted Jammu and Kashmir special autonomy, which was a point of contention both within and outside the state.
Insurgency and Political Instability
The late 1980s saw a rise in insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, with demands for autonomy often turning violent.
Punjab Insurgency
Punjab in the 1980s experienced severe turmoil due to armed insurgency led by extremist groups. The situation escalated to Operation Blue Star, leading to further complications.
Operation Blue Star
In 1984, the Indian government conducted Operation Blue Star to remove militants from the Golden Temple, resulting in significant casualties and damage to the temple.
Anti-Sikh Riots of 1984
Following Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's assassination, anti-Sikh riots erupted, causing immense loss of life and property.
Assam Movement
The Assam Movement was primarily against illegal immigrants and 'outsiders,' leading to widespread agitation and violence during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Anti-Foreigners Movement
Led by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), the movement demanded the expulsion of foreigners who had entered the state illegally.
Assam Accord
The Assam Accord of 1985 aimed to identify and deport illegal immigrants, significantly altering the state's political landscape.
India's Democratic Response
Policy of Accommodation
India has often responded to regional aspirations through accommodation and democratic negotiations rather than suppression.
Major Accords and Agreements
Mizoram Peace Accord
The Mizoram Peace Accord of 1986 marked the end of a violent insurgency and granted Mizoram full statehood with special powers.
Punjab Accord
The Punjab Accord, or Rajiv Gandhi - Longowal Accord, in 1985 aimed to bring normalcy to Punjab by addressing various regional demands.
Challenges and Balancing Acts
While addressing regional aspirations, India often faces the challenge of balancing democratic rights with national unity, requiring careful political manoeuvring.
Case Studies
Reorganization of States
Linguistic States Formation
Immediately after Independence, linguistic politics led to the creation of states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat based on linguistic lines.
Creation of New States (Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand)
In recent decades, the formation of new states like Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand has been a response to long-standing regional demands.
Integrating Sikkim
Sikkim became an Indian state in 1975 following a popular referendum. This integration demonstrated the dynamic nature of Indian federalism.
Goa's Liberation
Goa was liberated from Portuguese rule in 1961 and later became a state after a referendum rejected its merger with Maharashtra.
Lessons Learned
The Role of Democratic Negotiations
The Indian experience highlights the importance of democratic negotiations in addressing regional aspirations. Examples include peace accords in Mizoram and Punjab, which have significantly mitigated tensions.
graph TD;
A[Regional Aspirations] -->|Democratic Negotiations| B(Accords)
B --> C[Mizoram Peace Accord]
B --> D[Punjab Accord]
Importance of Power Sharing
Effective power sharing between the central and state governments is crucial for addressing regional demands and ensuring national unity.
Addressing Regional Economic Imbalances
Economic disparities between regions can fuel regional aspirations. Addressing these imbalances is essential for long-term national unity.
Flexibility of the Indian Constitution
India's flexible federal system, including provisions for special autonomy for certain states, has been effective in accommodating regional aspirations.
Conclusion
Nation-building in India is an ongoing process. Regional aspirations are not anomalies but integral to the democratic landscape. As India's history shows, addressing these aspirations through democratic means, power sharing, and socio-economic development is crucial for maintaining unity in diversity.
By understanding these regional dynamics, students can appreciate the complexities and achievements of India's political journey, highlighting the ongoing balance between unity and regional diversity.
This comprehensive guide should provide Class 12 students with a well-rounded understanding of regional aspirations in India, covering historical contexts, major movements, and lessons learned.
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