Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Army in Kashmir

This refers to the report “Army out, stages flag march in Srinagar” (July 8). The army's assistance to the Jammu and Kashmir government in restoring normality may provide an immediate solution. But it will be temporary. Summer violence and protests not only recur every year but also become more violent. Human rights violations serve as an immediate cause for protests, which eventually lead to the enhanced alienation of people and trust deficit.

The government should rebuild trust by ensuring zero tolerance of rights violations, reconsideration of the AFSPA, demilitarisation of the areas which are free from militancy, dialogue with the separatists on more relaxed terms and good governance.

Waseem Malik,

Anantnag

The Centre and the Kashmir government seem intent on undermining the Indian state's legitimacy in Kashmir. Calling in the army is a knee-jerk reaction. The cure is worse than the disease and a part of the problem rather than the solution. When the Centre is so reluctant to send the army into the red corridor in spite of heavy losses, why is it so eager to deploy the army in Kashmir?

Syed Abid Shah,

Srinagar

The Centre has steadfastly refused to deploy the army in the naxal-infested areas saying the Maoist rebels are our own people. But it has resorted to a diametrically opposite approach in Kashmir. Are not the protesters in Kashmir as much Indians as the naxal cadres operating in Chhattisgarh, Orissa and West Bengal?

Arun Malankar,

Mumbai

Once again, Kashmir is on the boil. Normal life has been paralysed with over 15 civilians killed. Demonstrations and protests are part of democracy and the legal right of every Indian. Why should the government forcibly prevent the Kashmiris from exercising their right?

Why is something that is common everywhere seen as an offence in Kashmir? The government should consider the protests the voice of its own people, not a threat to the State.

Waliullah,

New Delhi

The army is out on the streets of Srinagar after two decades. It was not intended to be deployed but the situation in Kashmir warrants its presence. In fact, the National Conference-led government of Omar Abdullah did its best to bring peace. A large number of Kashmiri Pandits went back to the Valley to celebrate one of their annual religious festivals. It was surely a big step forward. What went wrong is understandable. The separatists have their own agenda and support from across the border.

R.K. Kutty,

Bhopal

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