Dr Nater Singh
The recent violent incidents in the hilly districts of Kishtwar are not only posing great threat to the national integration but also to the aged-old traditions of social amity and hegemony. These principles are cherished the most by the people in this district. It is very surprising that people in such area can even think of resorting the arson, looting and burning of each other residential houses and business establishments. History bears the testimony that the people in that area, by and large, are peace-loving, hospitable, God-fearing, patriotic and deeply involved in up keeping social fabric and fraternity. As such, people alone are not to be blamed for this type of stigma. The local administration cannot be absolved of its responsibility in maintaining law and order, and peace in that area. The casual and polarized attitude of the concerned may be held responsible for giving air to the fundamental forces leading to present alarming situations.
Indeed this kind of lapse in maintaining law and order is dangerous for a pluralistic society of ours. It is desirable that Government should devise an effective mechanism to dispel rumours being spread in the area by rumour-mongers. Respecting the sentiments of the people of all denominations and castes, clean and impartial administration is required to be provided. The people should also be watchful in isolating the elements who want to create communal frenzy irrespective of the community to which they belong.
The incidents of violence leading to arson, looting and burning of houses/shops create a fear psychosis among the members of different communities. The social and secular fabric of the society need to be preserved at all costs rather the state of Jammu and Kashmir must lead as ever before as an apostle of secularism and communal harmony. Have the people of this area forgotten the tales of heroism and bravery of the Indian soldiers at the front and sacrifices made by the civilians particularly by the youth for the creations of district of Kishtwar?
Despite the fact that Kishtwar in the erstwhile Doda district remained mostly a neglected part of the region, it always remained a symbol of religious tolerance at most odd times. The role played by saints particularly in this part of the state has been so impressive that their teachings received with unparalleled enthusiasm. Being the Apostle of peace and spirituality, enlightened saints are the emissaries of God, who came on earth, to re-kindle the spiritual love and to re-inculcate the spirit of peace and universal brotherhood in mankind, in order to pay their obeisance, thousands of pilgrims every day visit Shrine of Shah-Asrar-ul-Din, Shrine of Shah Akhiar-ud-Din existing within the town and aged-old famous Hindu Shrine at Sarthal. Besides above, a number of Mosques, Mandirs and a Gurudwara exist in the town where people pay their obeisance for alleviation of the anguish and distress through prayers.
In the context of on-going crisis and to normalize situations some concrete and effective steps need to be initiated by the local administration. Inter alia, inter-community interface be held to instill trust and cement communal amenity and brotherhood in the district. Active participation particularly of youth representing all communities in organizing some relevant functions like Sarav Dharm Peace March, offering free Langar (Bhandara) to all at Choughan grounds and elsewhere would certainly go a long way in fostering communal harmony and fellow-feelings. It is time to re-dedicate and resolve ourselves to do our best in maintaining communal harmony and preserving our identity, honour and composite culture.
‘Toot Jaaye Na Mala Kaheen Pyar Ki, Verna Anmol Moti Bikhar Jaayen Gay
Tum Mano Na Mano Hamara Kaha, Hum Mussafir Hain Keh Key Chaley Jayenge’
(The author is former Principal)
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