The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Kashmir policy

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Saturday, Aug 23, 2008
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Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Kashmir policy

The article “Need to rethink our Kashmir policy” (Aug. 22) is one of the best articles I have read on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. It rightly points out that even though Kashmir is legally part of the Indian Union, Kashmiris do not feel part of it and that it is the flawed policies of the Indian state for 60 years that are to blame. Although shouting slogans of azadi is no solution to the problem, implementation of an undiluted Article 370, which was the basis of Kashmir’s accession to India, is one of the best practical solutions.

Azhar Yasin,

Srinagar

* * *

The article rightly pointed out that Kashmiris feel let down by the Indian government. Much of this sentiment can be traced to an aspect of the conflict that is generally overlooked: lost economic opportunities due to misguided policies in the region since Partition. The epicentre of the present insurgency and the regions most affected by it are marked by low levels of development and governance. There are many potential solutions but unless India and Pakistan abandon the combative mindset, no progress is possible.

A. Bhagavathi Meena,

Valliyur

* * *

While various explanations such as the ISI hand, the communal divide, and the strengthening of the separatist movement are being advanced for the unrest in J&K, the fact is India’s political leadership has lost the confidence of the average citizen of the State.

The people feel that the Central leadership lacks credibility and moral authority. The UPA government will be blamed by history if separatists have their way in Kashmir. It should immediately constitute a team of senior people who enjoy credibility, and are not in politics, to visit J&K to find a solution.

N.S. Venkataraman,

Chennai

* * *

Ever since the accession of J&K to India, the demand to hold a plebiscite has been turned down. Article 370 which promises a special status for Kashmir has become a political tool for the BJP, which is bent on abolishing it. The Amarnath land transfer row and the economic blockade have given enough fodder to the separatists to sway the Kashmiris to demand azadi. It is time a political consensus was evolved to grant de facto autonomy to Kashmir within the framework of the Indian Constitution.

Syed Sultan Mohiddin,

Kadapa

* * *

The problem in Kashmir is deep rooted. Roundtable conferences and formation of working groups won’t do. Kashmiris feel alienated and betrayed because the Centre has reneged on many promises made to them.

Faizan Qadir,

Srinagar

* * *

A special status, economic packages and other blandishments are mere palliatives and do not address the deeper malaise afflicting the Kashmiri mindset. If the Indian leadership makes a bold attempt to find a meaningful solution to the Kashmir issue, it is sure to have the backing of the people. It will make way for durable peace in the subcontinent and give a fillip to the confidence-building measures between India and Pakistan.

R. Ravichandran,

Chennai

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