Jammu and Kashmir, a region historically known for its rich cultural diversity and geopolitical significance, has witnessed a succession of Chief Ministers who have played pivotal roles in shaping the socio-political landscape of the region. However, since June 2017, following the abrogation of Article 370 and the reorganization of the state into two separate Union Territories, Jammu and Kashmir has operated without a Chief Minister. This marked a significant shift in the governance structure, with the region now under the direct rule of the Central government.
The era preceding the reorganization saw the leadership of various Chief Ministers, each contributing in their own way to the development and administration of Jammu and Kashmir. The last Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir was Mehbooba Mufti, a prominent political figure associated with the People's Democratic Party (PDP).
Mehbooba Mufti assumed office as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir on April 4, 2016, succeeding her father, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Her tenure witnessed a complex political landscape, with challenges ranging from internal security concerns to issues of regional autonomy. The PDP-BJP coalition government, which she led, faced difficulties in navigating the delicate balance between regional aspirations and national interests.
During her tenure, Mehbooba Mufti focused on a comprehensive development agenda for Jammu and Kashmir. Efforts were made to address issues related to infrastructure, education, and healthcare. However, the political climate remained volatile, marked by periodic unrest and tensions. The regional autonomy debate, a long-standing issue in Jammu and Kashmir, continued to be a focal point of discussions during her term.
The turning point came in August 2019 when the Government of India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took a historic decision to abrogate Article 370, revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. This move led to the bifurcation of the state into two Union Territories – Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Consequently, the position of Chief Minister ceased to exist, marking the end of Mehbooba Mufti's term.
Since then, the region has been under the direct governance of the Central government. The absence of a Chief Minister has been a departure from the established political norm in the region. The Union Territory status has redefined the administrative structure, with the Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India serving as the chief executive authority.
The decision to reorganize Jammu and Kashmir sparked debates on national integration, security, and the future trajectory of the region. The government asserted that the move was aimed at accelerating development, promoting good governance, and fostering inclusivity. However, it also generated concerns and apprehensions among certain sections regarding the impact on regional identity and autonomy.
Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have played crucial roles in navigating the complex socio-political dynamics of the region. Mehbooba Mufti, as the last Chief Minister before the reorganization, faced the challenges of a shifting political landscape. The absence of a Chief Minister since June 2017 and the establishment of a Union Territory status signify a paradigm shift in governance. The region is now under the direct rule of the Central government, with implications that continue to unfold in the evolving narrative of Jammu and Kashmir.