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 India India Kashmir to be an independent country because
that would encourage people in other parts of India
