The continued crisis in Kashmir in which over 15 teenaged boys got killed in a month should be an eye-opener for those who claim that the situation in Kashmir is normal. Tourists thronging the Valley may make one believe that “all is well”. But is it really so? Common Kashmiris are worst affected by this violence. Those at the helm of affairs should adopt a realistic approach towards the emerging situation. Otherwise it seems ground is slipping under their feet. The growing dissent among youth is an example. The chief minister Omar Abdullah’s said on NDTV that stone pelters had nothing better to do. I completely agree with him. It is a fact that unemployment is the biggest challenge in Jammu and Kashmir. This problem is lethal and needs to be addressed politically. Of course you can’t have government jobs for everyone but one cannot undermine the potential of government sector to absorb youth. Avenues need to be searched out by being planned, systematic and prioritize what is available. Commitment and political will is missing. History is witness that leaders with commitment have lifted their societies out of mess and ignorance. They have not been super beings but human beings with greater zeal and commitment to serve humanity. Present situation is a wake up call for all of us. It needs deliberation. Sentiment needs to be respected. Resentment and anxiety is to be attended not ignored. The wounded families who lost their loved ones need a healing touch.

Kulsoom Nizamuddin
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Lastupdate on : Tue, 27 Jul 2010 21:30:00 Mecca time
Lastupdate on : Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 IST