Sir,
Please refer to the comprehensive article ‘Addressing Kashmir issue’ written by General Harsha Kakar on the present Kashmir situation on 17/18 August.
I agree with the actions suggested by the General to resolve the complex issues presently facing Kashmir. His concluding statement emphasizing the need to find a solution by involving the masses is very relevant. However the lack of credibility of the local elected leaders makes it more complicated. Hence another approach may be considered and that is involving religious leaders and their influence on the masses.
It is evident that the Governments, both at the State and Centre are hesitating to address the issue as a religious one. To be more specific, a Hindu vs Muslim issue.The following needs to be considered.
Prior to partition, the majority Muslim population of Kashmir had to reluctantly accept a Hindu ruler, Maharaja Hari Singh. The two Nation theory was based on religion. Pakistan’s aggression in 1948 was to perpetuate the religious divide. Post partition, the local majority population has been uncomfortable with the distribution of wealth and business. Majority of the rich businessmen were Hindus.
To my mind, time is ripe to recognise and accept Kashmir imbroglio as a religious one and then address it.
There are no quick fix solution of the issue. A long term measure is that right thinking religious preachers need to be requested/goaded to spread the word of God from religious institutions to the masses. The true and desired teachings of God, the correct interpretation of the writings in the religious books need to be taught to the masses, especially those born in Kashmir after 1990, the year the separatist movement gained momentum. Stern action must be taken against those preachers spreading hate and disunity. The measures suggested by General Kakar must continue but the religious aspect needs to be recognised and accepted and remedial measures taken.
In the interim, more troops need to be inducted to ensure minimum bloodshed. The discomfort due to the imposed restrictions will be the heavy cost that has to be borne by the citizens. Discomfort is a better option than bloodshed.
Yours etc….
Col Sidharth Seth
on e-mail
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