In 100 years, four generations live their lives and pass away, each leaving behind a legacy and memories. The beautiful gift of life, bestowed upon us by the divine power, is a precious and fleeting phenomenon.
It has now been more than three and a half decades since the situation in Kashmir flared up, manifesting in various forms of militancy, civil unrest, mass movements, and terrorism, perpetuating a vicious cycle of turmoil with no end in sight. This prolonged conflict has already consumed multiple generations, leaving one to wonder how many more will be affected by its repercussions.
A true leader and effective ideology, coupled with a well-crafted strategy, should yield tangible results and progress toward a goal. However, when an issue persists for generations, it ultimately risks being annihilated by its own inertia. A statesman should possess the wisdom to recognize when to reassess and adjust their approach, knowing when to fall back or realign tracks to find a path forward.
Without delving into the complex historical context or revisiting the past in depth, let's focus on the present scenario, drawing references from history where academically relevant. Pakistan's stance on Kashmir has evolved significantly over time, transitioning from initial claims of "no support, no interference" in Jammu and Kashmir's affairs to professing "moral support," and eventually escalating to outright support, full involvement, and a vested interest.
Today, Pakistan asserts that Kashmir is its "jugular vein," a claim that, while not new, underscores the distance it is willing to go. This unyielding stance appears self-destructive, as if cutting its own lifeline. The Indian narrative of “Kashmir an integral part of India” also raises many questions at a time when people are deprived of their democratic rights. The elections have been conducted after six-year long central rule that too of a disempowered Legislative Assembly with Chief Minister having no powers.
The shelling and firing which they often resort to has always ruined the life and property of innocent people of Jammu Kashmir. The current escalation in progress should be an eye opener for the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Had it been sensitive to sufferings, it certainly could have avoided the J&K sector to up the ante. This clearly shows that their prime interest is territory not it's people. There is no love lost for Kashmiris from their side. They are up only for land grab. The onus now lies on the Kashmiris to conduct a thorough introspection and evaluation of their position.
They need to assess where they currently stand, what they have lost and gained over the decades, and most importantly, determine the way forward. As the main stakeholders, Kashmiris will be the most affected by their decisions, which will shape their future and that of their generations. The question remains whether they will continue to be misled by leaders who have made grand promises but delivered only bloodshed, or if they will chart a new course. These leaders have promised the impossible but have only colored the land red with the blood of innocent humans.
There's no use ruing the past, but it's essential to refer to it to draw valuable lessons and learn from experiences. There was a time when the promise of "Sky's the limit within the Indian Constitution" was being made, offering a potential pathway for peace. However, that opportunity was squandered due to a lack of pragmatism. The reasons behind this missed chance may be complex, but it's clear that the leaders of the time lacked the will and courage to seize the moment.
Instead of adopting a statesmanlike approach, they chose to prioritize short-term political gains. One crucial realization that needs to sink in is that, following the devastation of the last world war, borders across the world have largely stabilized compared to most of recorded history. This post-war stability has been a defining feature of international relations, with nations generally respecting established boundaries. Understanding this broader context can provide insights into the complexities of the Kashmir issue.
Within the Indian Union, looking at the history of post-independence agitations and movements can provide valuable insights into the outcomes, highlighting who achieved their objectives and who ultimately lost.
No arguing that Kashmir's situation is unique, but studying these movements can help understand the available options and potential consequences and way forward.
In the North East, insurgency and militancy plagued almost every state, yet most have been resolved through sustained efforts. Nagaland is still ongoing, but an understanding has been reached and is peaceful for a few years now.
Mizoram and Tripura have successfully sorted out their issues, regaining peace and stability.
In Assam, the ULFA, initially formed besides other issues, to oppose illegal immigrants from Bangladesh, ironically found shelter in that country. However, after prolonged negotiations, they have since reconciled with the Indian government, and peace has returned to the State.
The Bodoland movement, a separate issue within Assam, led to the formation of the Bodoland Territorial Council, granting autonomy to the region within the state.
The Gorkhaland agitation led by Subhash Ghiesing resulted in the formation of the Darjeeling Hill Development Council, ensuring greater regional autonomy, violence and arson coming to an end.
In neighboring Punjab, decades of bloodshed and militancy yielded no tangible achievements, instead devouring a generation of youth.
The people realised the futility of the situation and were courageous enough to realise and withstand and now largely reconciled to the ground reality. Certain fringe elements will always try to exploit opportunities, but it's crucial for the public and the state to remain vigilant and avoid falling into their trap.
If the people of Jammu and Kashmir draw valuable insights from the above-mentioned movements within the country and in the neighborhood, and carefully consider their options, they will realize that they must take the lead and exhibit the courage necessary to strive for any semblance of normalcy.
Given its geography, Pakistan will continue to seek opportunities to exploit the situation. There will be those within Jammu and Kashmir who would want the pot of violence and bloodshed to simmer, allowing them to benefit from the ongoing turmoil. It is essential for the people of Kashmir to be aware of this trap and critically evaluate the achievements and gains of decades of strife and bloodshed, as well as the glorified sacrifices.
A true statesman is one who shapes public opinion for the greater good of society, not someone who rides the wave of sentiment to remain relevant and exploit opportunities when they arise. The question remains: Is there anyone in Jammu and Kashmir who embodies this statesmanship? Once people realize their power, they can become masters of their destiny. While there will always be fringe elements that refuse to reconcile, it is up to the public to expose and keep them in check. The recent condemnation of the act of terrorism by the people of Kashmir is a step in the right direction, and they should also acknowledge the solidarity shown by many within the country, including the families of the victims. The grit and determination displayed by these families in the face of tragedy is a quality that ordinary Kashmiris must exhibit consistently in response to every incident.
Moreover, no matter how robust the security system, grid, or matrix cover may be, it cannot guarantee 100% assurance every time. Human elements, dynamics of the environment, involved in security measures inevitably lead to occasional slip-ins and lapses. Therefore, relying solely on security measures is not enough.
The only viable resolution seems to be transforming the dividing line into a peaceful co-existence.
This realization can come about either through a shift in perspective across the border or when they understand the futility of bloodshed with no gains, and their internal dynamics are delinked from Kashmir. As of now that seems unlikely so either it must be the Will of the Divine, or the collective and visible actions of Kashmiris can make them realize this.
The recent exhibitions of solidarity, such as candle marches, are a start, but a lot more is needed in the same direction.
Now is the opportune time for the people of J&K to send an irrevocable message to the other side of the fence, that they stand with democratic Forces and their destiny lies with that of India. A clear stand will also help in de-escalation of the current round of hostilities.
Ultimately, the way forward to peaceful normalcy for future generations lies in the hands of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, if they desire it. The political aspirations of the people of J&K need to be addressed by New Delhi, which has further complicated the situation and the issue since 2014. The change in nomenclature of J&K in August 2019 and its bifurcation into two Union Territories has not gone down well with the people both in J&K and Ladakh.
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