Sir,
This has reference to the article ‘Maharaja Hari Singh, the nationalist’ DE Oct 15.
Maharaja Hari Singh was a great patriot of the soil. It was the who acceded to India at a time when Pakistan was bent on occupying it forcefully.
The Instrument of Accession was later on validated by he democratic institution of the State. Article 370 stands inserted in the Instrument of Accession. Union Government has protected the article with sincerity and there has been no dilution to it. The problem in Jammu and Kashmir is a political one. It requires a political solution. Violence has no place in a civilized society. The State enjoys full democracy.
People are free to exercise their franchise. Other pillars of democracy are, an independent judiciary and a very strong independent press. The need of the hour is to mitigate the sufferings of the common people. Intelligentia in this valley and outside have to address the mindset of the disgruntled youth by understanding their psychology and taking corrective steps. Dialogue has to be initiated with all those forces who repose faith in peaceful processes. Masses are to be educated about the nefarious designs of all those forces who propogate violence. Restoration of peace should be our first endeavour in present crisis.
Yours etc…
S N Raina
Jammu