A Difference in Degree (1964–75)

Though Bakhshi with strong backing by Delhi succeeded in creating ‘cold peace’ phase by going for development and providing basic necessities to the people, yet, some of the policy instruments especially curbing of civil liberties and promoting corruption and nepotism went well with the hegemony project as goonda raj and misuse of power evoked strong reaction both within and outside Kashmir. Most importantly, however, Bakhshi showed diffidence in cooperating with further integrationist moves of the centre. Hence it was regarded necessary to change the leadership in Kashmir and install G.M. Sadiq whose alternative views were clearly known. The fourth chapter examines the nature and the changes in governance during the period of Sadiq and the extent of his success in a hostile environment to which he also added fuel notwithstanding his celebration of ‘liberalism and clean government