Is the government serious on engaging Kashmiri’s? The Excelsior 26 Aug 17
er trained, nor motivated nor even equipped to challenge the might of the army, hence are being eliminated rapidly. If this also has to reduce then the government needs to act.
This is the time when the government machinery should have begun to regain control over the districts and towns. Interactions between elected representatives and the public, to explain government intentions, future policies and plans should have commenced. However, the government and the governed seem to be at different ends of the ladder. There has been no forward movement, except statements and suggestions. Instead, another hydra in the form of Article 35 A has been permitted to rise, thus adding fuel to a diminishing flame.
The state government has begun raising its voice against Article 35A, seeking to protect demography in the valley, while failing to realize that they represent the state, not the valley alone. PDP and NC, instead of seeking to bring peace, succour and restore public confidence are enhancing regional and religion divide within the state. Thus, the gains being achieved by the army are being ignored.
This has happened to the valley every time the army has brought the situation under control. The government has slept, stating it is seeking a solution, whereas in reality, it has failed to act, simply because it had no solution. The Prime Minister, in his address to the nation, from the ramparts of the Red Fort, stated that ‘Kashmir cannot be solved by abuse or bullets, it will be solved by embracing all Kashmiri’s’. The words appear hollow as the divide between Kashmiris’ and the nation only seems to increase, while security forces continue to keep the valley under control. The government machinery at both, central and state levels appear handicapped and unwilling to move.
The Home Minister had earlier commented that the government would enhance employment opportunities for the youth, but nothing seems to move. Is this government going to follow dozens before it by just biding time and hoping the problem would vanish into thin air? If it is, then it is no different, despite its huge claims. It had made a string of promises, vowed to act, has partially done so, but when it comes to the crux, seems to develop cold feet and hesitates.
The army has, at great cost and sacrifice, provided the government space to move forward. It has created an environment of near normalcy, beyond which may not be feasible in present times. The government may need to take small steps, but unless it does, how can it indicate a firmness and resolute desire to resolve problems. Ignoring the state now could result in the situation slipping back and becoming advantage Pakistan again.
The government should not let this opportunity go a-begging. Mere words imply nothing unless backed by action and results. Words have flowed from every Prime Minister, but none has acted or even attempted to resolve local problems. It is time the Modi government moves beyond mere rhetoric and takes the bull by the horns, opens avenues for dialogue, offers solutions, as after all violence is a cycle, which may soon return to haunt, if the government continues to slumber.
About the Author
Maj Gen Harsha Kakkar
Retired Major General Indian Army