Kashmir needs a simple, realistic, step by step approach

The miserable cycle of violence that has enveloped Kashmir for almost a month now has finally led to the very necessary decision of calling in the Army in support of police and para-military forces. This is the time to evolve new ideas that provide viable long-term options to deal with the problem. First and foremost, all democratic and freedom loving forces in the country should stand steadfast in support of the government of J&K and its Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Not many Chief Minister’s in Kashmir have completed their term, even the grandfather and father of the present incumbent having resigned from the post of Chief Minister at some point in time. The previous government fell under similar circumstances of turmoil just two years ago. Historically, removal of a government has not brought about any change in the politico-social environment of the Valley, therefore, this is not the solution to the problem. On the other hand it would result in yet another victory for such forces in the Valley who thrive on disruption and destablisation.

This is not the first time in India that the Army has been called out in aid of civil authority. Kashmir need not be seen through a prism that is different from the rest of the nation and the decision should be viewed as one taken in concert with national policy for dealing with such situations. In other words, the emotional hype that is being given to this decision is misplaced and it should not be allowed to gain political credence. The Army has, very rightly, limited its mandate to maintaining peace through the medium of flag marches and imposition of curfew. It has divorced itself from the responsibility of crowd control. This decision aptly highlights its concern for the people and its desire to maintain the stature of the J&K Police and Para military forces who are primarily responsible for maintaining law and order.

The responsibility for this cycle of violence is being put squarely upon the youth of Kashmir. It is being implied that, due to a violent childhood spent in the shadow of the gun and the existing lack of employment opportunities, they see no light in the end of the tunnel and the resultant anger and frustration is erupting in the form of spontaneous agitations. This perception is divorced from reality. In comparison with the rest of the nation, Kashmir is well placed in terms of both literacy and poverty indices. There are others who are much worse off, but they do not come out in the streets and vent their frustration and anger. Secondly, while the world is getting globalised this community is being guided by its leaders towards geo-political isolation. If you do not welcome investment, do not provide land for commercial use, do not give security for commercial enterprise and on top of it do not leave your home town to look for employment outside, how on earth can you progress? The leaders and elders should advise the youth to put the past behind them, get over this ghetto mentality, shun hatred , abjure mindless rage to direct their energies towards achievement orientation like the rest of the youth of the country.

Now, a word about the so-called spontaneous nature of these agitations. One cannot help but discern a distinct pattern being followed year after year which leaves doubts about their spontaneity. It is also a known fact that some political segments in the Valley use disruption as a tool. While living in luxurious comfort they give unending calls for hartals and bandhs with little thought to the inconvenience and economic loss being caused to the poor people. Against this backdrop, while ruthlessly cracking down upon the disruptive elements the government also needs to prepare itself for such upheavals. Riot control should be given top priority and the quality of its policing should be enhanced through additional recruitment, purchase of modern riot control equipment and specialised training.

The debate on Kashmir should involve a wider section of society. Jammu and Ladakh are also stake holders and their people need to be involved in the discussion process. Views of retired officers/bureaucrats who have served in Kashmir, intelligentsia, Kashmiri Pundits, businessmen, scholars, analysts and journalists, need to be taken to bring about a holistic understanding of the problem. Presently, selected Kashmiri politicians and leaders are invited to express their views on pre-decided agendas. They give one sided viewpoints which are mostly inconclusive. It is often said that the most complex problems have simple solutions. Kashmir will emerge from the existing despondency through a simple, realistic, step by step approach based upon patience and self belief.

Jaibans Singh is a Defence Analyst specialising in matters relating to Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan

(Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not represent the views either of the Editorial Committee or the Centre for Land Warfare Studies).