An interesting Editorial in the Rising Kashmir
Need to Rethink
The fresh protest calendar by Hurriyat Conference (G) is out. It is no different from the previous calendars given by the conglomerate even as people in general expected a “better deal” this time keeping in view the festival of Eid. For the past over two months normal life in Kashmir has come to a grinding halt owing to protests which were fuelled largely by the killing of innocents at the hands of CRPF and Police.
People have been genuinely protesting against the atrocities being perpetrated by the forces and the anger is justified. Whatever the Hurriyat Conference led by Syed Ali Geelani has asked people to do during this period they have religiously followed that showing that he holds sway over people. No doubt the sufferings have increased manifold with huge losses to businesses and education sector. But the people in general have echoed their support to the programme keeping in view the sacrifices given for a larger cause. The motivation for supporting such a programme is also the feeling that it is a “now or never” game. Whether that is a genuine feeling needs to be understood in a proper context.
While people followed the calendars of past weeks they had to face the brunt of continued curfews by the government. Government has also failed to come to the grips and sensitize itself with the problems people have been facing. There is shortage of medicines and even babies have been deprived of milk due to curfew and other restrictions. Two months is a long time and there is no end in sight as New Delhi is yet to wake up over Kashmir. It has only resorted to usual rhetoric and generalization that it was ready to talk with any group. There is no definition of this “offer” which could pave way for some kind of reconciliation. Political deadlock is further worsening the situation in Kashmir and a practical approach is needed to provide an opening for political engagement. But that has to come with any conditions. Meanwhile, ahead of Eid people expected a longer breather as the businesses have been shut and flow of financial transactions has come to a naught. One day before the Eid, which probably will fall on Friday or Saturday and in a latter case, the following day is also supposed be shut, is not enough. It is true that the blood spilled by forces on the streets has not disappeared and no real celebrations can be expected but at the same time, a longer break under the guise of Eid is much more needed. No doubt that the real source of livelihood in this place is dependent on the salaries of government employees and they may get it ahead of Eid but the private sector is going through the worst crisis. Since there is no work, the flow of money is at lowest ebb putting the businesses in danger. According to a rough estimate 60,000 people have lost their jobs in hospitality sector alone. There is no doubt that people here are wedded to the cherished goal of Azadi and have extended full support to all the programmes. But a “better deal” on the eve of Eid is inevitable. Hurriyat should rethink over the fresh calendar.