This refers to the article ‘They want?’ by Amit Kushari. The writer has misconceived the political problem of Kashmir by unnecessarily discussing it from the prism of religion. It is painful indeed that a beautiful place on earth, inhabited by peaceful populace has become a disputed territory and a bone of contention only because of self-aggrandizing politicians, bureaucrats and pseudo writers who have always tried to divide the region on the basis of religion. Otherwise the main reason behind this constant strife between India and Pakistan is more political than religious. After going through Kushari’s article, it seems as if history and geography of Kashmir and the religious affiliations of its people present an ideal recipe for bitterness and animosity. But it is not so. The Hindus and the Muslims of Kashmir lived in harmony since the 13th century when Islam emerged as a major religion in Kashmir. History stands witness that Kashmir was formerly a lake surrounded by mountains that made it a centre for the attraction of tourists. And because of this beauty, the place maintained both its individuality and identity in the eyes of whole world. Till the beginning of 1947 people enjoyed being in the lap of nature. But soon after the end of British Rule in India, the people of Kashmir were promised by UN Security Council to decide in a peaceful manner the future of their state. They craved for freedom promised to them. Later Nehru’s statement (7th August 1952) in the Indian parliament. But India never looked so sincere. Though Amit Kaushari discussed this unfulfilled promise, it is ironical he calls it a story of distant past. People of Kashmir are only interested in their own political struggle and are wedded to the ideology of humanity, brotherhood and self determination regardless of religion, caste or creed. That is the reason they don't identify themselves with India, the question Amit had raised in her article.

Faisel Shafi Watt
Bemina, Srinagar
IbniShafi@rediffmail.com.

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