The sentiment of subnationalism in Kashmir is not very different from that in most other States, except that in Kashmir it is guaranteed by the Constitution.
* To understand
-it is A political issue -Heavy-handedness is not the answer in Kashmir; it never has been and is not likely to be in the future. It only furthers the cause of separation. Kashmir is not a military or law and order problem; it is a political and emotive issue.
-There is still no great love lost for Pakistan; Kashmiris realise they have no future across the border but it remains the most convenient fallback. Alienation, disillusionment and, of late, anger and disgust bring out the green flags.
-Kashmiris crave peace and desire engagement. Not talking has again brought Pakistan into the game when it was quite out of the equation in Jammu and Kashmir.
We have been facing Kashmir issue since Independence. The ever-relied solutions are two-fold. One, heavy-handedness, which often results in opposite, i.e. furthering the cause of separation. And two, shopping list of concessions or promises, which makes no impact on Kashmiri people.
And hence what we witness today is Kashmir, which is full of violent activities. Finding a way out of the present mess requires a willingness to listen – a consistent dialogue between different stakeholders.
The recent appointment of former DG of IB as interlocutor should be seen in this context only. He will serve as a via media between government and other stakeholders, including separatist.
Significance of meaningful and consistent dialogue
• It will keep Pakistan out of picture.
• It will ease Kashmiri apprehension of scrapping of Article 370 and 35A
• The magic of dialogue is that hardliners can get moderated and mainstreamed
• The majority of Kashmiri people realise that their future lies with India. This can be utilized well through dialogue.
• Ethically correct approach
• Global acceptance
CONCLUSION:To sum up, Kashmir is not a military or law and order problem; it is a political and emotive issue. Dialogue will serve as an instrument of emotional intelligence to ensure a long-lasting solution to Kashmir issue.
