J&K proposal: What we know about Truth and Reconciliation commissions

livemint.com:

Mint takes a look at the evidence: In his concurring but separate opinion on the abrogation of Article 370, Kaul recommended the creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission for Jammu and Kashmir to investigate and report on rights violations by both State and non-State actors at least since the 1980s and recommend measures for reconciliation. Kaul said that such a commission would encourage dialogue and could help resolve the distrust and tension that has built up in J&K over decades. Kaul’s recommendation was positively received by attorney general R.

Venkatramani and attracted public interest. They are typically established to uncover evidence of oppression and violence in societies that have been riven by long and bitter conflicts. They encourage both victims and perpetrators to come forward and say their piece.

This methodology exposes all members of society to the facts of violence and oppression and creates a widely accepted narrative of “the truth", which then prevents denialism. Perpetrators voluntarily confessing their crimes leads to forgiveness and reconciliation. In some cases, perpetrators are allowed amnesty.

Thus, both perpetrators and victims are able to move forward together. In over 40 countries, including Sierra Leone, Canada, South Korea and Chile, but most famously in South Africa at the end of apartheid. Led by Archbishop Desmond Tutu, South Africa’s TRC used large, televised public meetings to hear from victims and oppressors, capturing worldwide attention.

Kaul repeatedly cited South Africa in his Article 370 judgment. Some experts believe TRCs have achieved remarkable success in helping societies move forward. Others disagree, saying many among South Africa’s white minority saw the exercise