ABSTRACT

This chapter focuses on the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Kashmir in changing the perception of the people towards the Indian state and state government and thus in resolving the conflict in the Kashmir Valley. The Kashmir conflict is a continuous and a great challenge to the centralized Indian democracy and its federal credentials. The establishment of the local institutions can help develop and generate employment opportunities, and the grievances of the people of Kashmir towards the state and central governments can be addressed. The greater popular participation and a belief which develops among the people in the valley that their actions can help shape the nature and priorities of state as well as central government can help in greater political stability. Strengthening the Panchayat Raj in Kashmir will result in the development process and generate employment opportunities, which in turn can reduce the hatred of the people towards the central government.