Indian National Congress’ Election Manifesto for 2019

Jammu and Kashmir

The Congress claims it has long held the view that dialogue is the only way to understand the aspirations of the people of the three regions of Jammu and Kashmir and find an honourable solution to their issues and promises.

The party says it will adopt a two-pronged approach: first, uncompromising firmness on the border and ending infiltration; and second, absolute fairness in dealing with the demands of the people and winning their hearts and minds.

Congress party also promises to review the deployment of armed forces, move more troops to the border to stop infiltration completely, reduce the presence of the army and CAPFs in the Kashmir Valley, and entrust more responsibility to the Jammu and Kashmir police for maintaining law and order.

The party wants to review The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act and the Disturbed Areas Act in Jammu and Kashmir and promises to make changes in text of the laws to balance the requirements of security and the protection of human rights.

The party claims Jammu and Kashmir and its problems deserve a large-hearted approach that will eschew muscular militarism and legalistic formulations and look for an innovative federal solution. It promises to find such a solution through patient dialogue and talks with all stakeholders in the State.

Congress has promised the people of Jammu and Kashmir talks without pre-conditions. The manifesto claims the party will appoint three interlocutors drawn from civil society to facilitate such talks.

Border Security

The Congress claims it will increase the strength of border guarding forces — BSF, SSB, ITBP and Assam Rifles — and post them on or close to the border to prevent infiltration, illegal imm