Sir,
Reconciliation is the human grace.To reconcile after estrangedment is a human instinct, a natural phenomena. Society is companionship and sharing of common interests. Since many historical developments took place after the partition of the country the political, social, and economic developments are going on this perspective is to be viewed in the right direction and understood in a positive manner. The truth has its role in the reconciliation. The latter is not possible without the former. Bitter truth about Kashmir tangle is that under the Shimla Agreement of July, 1972 and Lahore declaration of February, 1999 India and Pakistan are committed to resolve all outstanding issues bilaterally through a peaceful dialogue and cooperation. The changed situation from the partition till date needs attention. Rigidity on the right of self determination is unfortunate. This has badly stood in the way of progress and peace of the State in general and the two countries in particular. Uncertainity, unrest among the people of sub continent is also unfortunate.
India is a secular democratic country where all religions are equal before the law, of the Land. Religious tolerance and to-getherness are the prerequisites for the citizens. Religion is a private affair for all. This reality is to be understood actively for the reconciliation.
The Kashmiris in the present scenario need to change their mind-set and keep pace with the world outside. The growing population, the unemployment problem of the youth due to the rapid spread of academic and technical education are the future challenges they have to face and combat.
India as a great developing country can to a large extent cater to their new demands. The reality is that the vale of Kashmir has remained peaceful, honourable and economically sound in a secular environ. Better to follow that very mystic path.
In the social setup also, reconciliation is a must and the demand of the miniscule minority for a composite township is justified. The minority community in no way negates diversity or amity or mutual brother-hood. Those who question this play politics with humanity and conscience.
Yours etc…
P L Koul, Budgami
Jammu