Analysis: Why The Shadow Of Separatism Lingers In Punjab
The article explores the persistent influence of separatism in Punjab, highlighted by the recent electoral success of candidates associated with the Khalistan movement. It identifies historical grievances, socio-economic distress, and institutional deficits as key drivers that keep separatist sentiment alive despite decades of relative peace.
Why it matters
Understanding the roots of regional separatism is essential for assessing India's internal security and the political stability of the Punjab region.
The threat of separatism has not fully disappeared from Punjab. This is evident from the fact that, despite 30 years of recession of insurgency, people of Punjab chose two Khalistan separatists -- jailed Amritpal Singh and former PM India Gandhi's assassin's son Sarabjit Singh Khalsa, to elect from the Khadoor Sahib and Faridkot Lok Sabha constituencies. Adding to their numbers, rebel Akali Dal MLA Manpreet Ayali also recently joined them.Five reasons, including historical grievances, socio-economic distress, debt trap, geopolitical dynamics and Institutional Delivery Deficits, have kept the threat of separatism alive. Punjab has learned new lessons from the insurgency, which peaked between 1984 and 1995. The state and its people bounced back and made an international mark.
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