KASHMIR

I have never been to Kashmir but I have met a few people from Kashmir. Most of the people in Kashmir are muslims and there is a feeling in India that they would prefer to be a part of neighboring Pakistan which is also predominantly muslim. I have never discussed this issue with the few Kashmiris I have met, since I felt it may be a sensitive matter.

One day, I met a Keralite who was working for the Indian Air Force (IAF). He was stationed in Kashmir for five years. I asked him if it is true that the people in Kashmir would prefer to be with Pakistan. He told me it is not true and that it is an impression created by the media and politicians in India. I then asked him the reason for the regular protests and violence in Kashmir. He said Pakistan is fishing in troubled waters. They use small groups to cause some problems but the majority is not involved with Pakistan. I said if only small groups are causing the problems then a solution could be easily found. He told me there is a bigger problem; most of the people in Kashmir do not see themselves as Indian. They are not interested in India or Pakistan. They are seeking Independence.

In India, each state has a different language and culture. There have been demands for independence from some other parts of India. No government in India can allow Kashmir to be an independent country because that would encourage people in other parts of India to seek the same.