This refers to the news “118 arrests, 10 PSA detentions in a month” (GK Feb.9). The recommendations of three interlocutors appointed by New Delhi have not been given a consideration by the state police or New Delhi. If they think that nocturnal raids, arrests and booking the youth under the draconian laws will help them restore peace and normalcy in the state, they are wrong. The uprisings in Kashmir are against the injustice. Although from the last six decades there were many ups and downs as far as the Azadi discourse is concerned, yet the people have not given up the just cause.  However, New Delhi tried its best to quell the freedom voice but failed. If this continues, peace will never come to Kashmir. The Chief Minister on the other hand is trying his best to make sure that things don’t go out of hand  this time; his visit  to Handwara must be seen in that context. The fervent appeals of the interlocutors to the Centre that all the alleged stone pelters as well as political prisoners should be released as a confidence building measure and equally endorsed by the Indian Home Minster have been responded with the continuous intensive crackdowns on the  Hurriyat (G), and the stone pelters. This is highly unfortunate and will prove counterproductive. It will also marginalize the moderate group of Hurriyat, that held many rounds of talks with the Centre. 
Mir liyaqat Nazir
Muran, Pulwama

Lastupdate on : Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 IST