THE "RECKONING DAY"

The two days which come with a lot of worries and tension for Kahsmiris are the Republic Day and the Independence Day. While as the entire country is celebrating these historic days, Kashmiris are cursing and swearing by the minute. These days virtually become the “Days of Reckoning” for them. Not only the whole valley comes under siege but even Jammu and some other places also feel the heat. Cordon and search of the sensitive areas especially near the venues of official functions are started at least ten days before the actual events. Surprise checks, roadside searches and even sudden thrashing of public at large for no rhyme or reason by the security forces are just a sampling of the coming events. The happenings on these two events vividly depict an over reaction to security concerns. Government appears to demonstrate in a matter of fact way that Kashmir is a part of India whether Kashmiris like it or not. The flag hoisting and parade near Ghanta Ghar in the historic Lal Chowk is a vivid example of this attitude. This is especially so as the Lal Chowk has an emotional attachment to all Kashmiris for historical reasons. As the days near, the security measures become more and more strict. Commandos of various security agencies occupy the houses surrounding the official venues. Sharp shooters are on the top floors of every house. Almost entire area around the venues to a distance of one to two kilometres comes under virtual (undeclared) curfew. The Government has to go to such a length of inconveniencing the whole population just to show to the world that Kashmiris are with India and not against it. However, as a matter of fact this type of attitude alienates Kashmiris more and more from the mainstream. It would be better if the security forces within their camps and cantonments hold these parades. Some of the willing civilians could also participate in these parades and functions without any hassle. It would spare the population at large from the most unwelcome harassment and inconvenience. The story does not end in the capital city but is carried to all district headquarters. Of course one has to demonstrate that all the districts also are an inseparable part and parcel of the “Republic”! A large number of people used to go away from these sensitive places for the duration of a week or so to avoid harassment. Often people would travel to Jammu or Delhi or any other place outside the State. However, these days Kashmiris are more conspicuous by their presence and also more suspect outside the State. They are monitored more closely there and may have to undergo much more severe questioning and interrogation than back home where everybody is a suspect. The most unfortunate part of the whole episode is the fact that people in the rest of the country do not know the real story. No body tells them how much harassment Kashmiris have to undergo during these two sensitive periods. They believe what the official media dishes out to them. Had they known the real truth, they would definitely protest in a more vehement way than even the locals. All the leaders from both the sides, pro-establishment as well as anti-establishment have failed to either convey the truth outside or to give any emancipation or solace to the local public. Well, one would not blame the so-called mainstream leaders, as they are a part of the whole show. One wonders only about the attitude of the so-called pro-people leaders whose best offer is a very easy and simple escape. Just call a “Total Bandh” on these days and relax at home. Does that free people from all the harassment? Instead of aiming for the ultimate solution of the vexed problem, which does not seem to be in sight, they should be concentrating on getting people some relief from these miserable times. At present even the Nature is against us. In this cold, bleak and depressing weather, Almighty has added the extra punishment of the “Republic” to the hapless population. In the ultimate analysis, one feels that the Kashmiris must, one and all; honestly and genuinely atone for their sins to get emancipated from this perennial torture. Almighty alone can be our saviour!
MR WASIM