It is welcome, even if seen in some quarters as belated, that Prime MinisterManmohan Singh took the opportunity that Tuesday's all-party meet on Kashmir presented to deliver his first public address on the turmoil in the state. Through his speech, the prime minister made an effort to reach out to the people of the Valley, especially the youth. He admitted there was a sense of alienation among Kashmiris that needed to be mitigated through all-round development and a comprehensive political package. He called for external and internal dialogue and greater engagement with people at the grassroots. These are certainly the right noises and should facilitate the process of addressing Kashmir's woes.
There are two fronts on which movement is required for durable peace in Kashmir. On the economic front, even though several economic packages have been announced in the past, Kashmiris still feel they do not have the same opportunities as people in other parts of the country. This feeling of discrimination needs to be allayed. It is time that the prime minister's promise of development translates into concrete results on the ground. The proposed expert group that is to formulate a jobs plan is a good starting point to ensure that economic opportunities reach the ordinary Kashmiri.
However, creation of jobs alone won't suffice. It is understood that the political dimension of the Kashmir issue cannot be understated. Greater devolution of political powers and turning the LoC into a soft border are suggestions that can be seriously looked at provided there is consensus within the state and what is on the table doesn't contravene the Indian Constitution. All political forces in Kashmir must recognise that it is impossible for New Delhi to compromise on the issue of sovereignty. It is with this in mind that they should articulate their political agenda for Kashmir. Sticking to a hardline position like Hurriyat leaderSyed Ali Shah Geelani or being ambiguous like the People's Democratic Party has little merit.
Political leaders in Kashmir have to stop passing the buck and start taking responsibility. Continuously blaming the Centre for all that is wrong in the state is unproductive. They must sincerely engage the Centre if they genuinely want progress on reduction in security forces or amendments to the Armed Forces Special Powers Act. Just as the Centre would do well to form an all-party parliamentary committee on Kashmir to oversee issues ranging from inquiry into alleged atrocities by security personnel to release of political detainees. Sincerity on all sides is key to a better future for Kashmir.
Read more: Opening In Kashmir - Edit Page - Opinion - Home - The Times of India http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/opinion/edit-page/Opening-In-Kashmir/articleshow/6293996.cms#ixzz0wP2Nk0e2
