Understanding their Silence

By: Prof Deepak Raj Gupta

His holiness the Dalai Lama said in his Nobel Lecture, when we feel love and kindness towards others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace (Gyatso, 1989:258).

The masses of J&K state, particularly that of Kashmir have amply send the signals for peace and prosperity by overwhelmingly participating in the recent elections (Nov, 2009) in the state despite of the two month violent agitation that happened because of the immature polity of the state.

The state politicians need to exhibit political maturity that lies in the inbuilt strength of Indian secular ethos and the democratic setup of 1.2 billion Indians.

A positive relationship needs to be developed between masses and the politicians. Masses have already sent the positive signals. Conflicts either get resolved or transformed. Kashmir is showing the way; let us create a strong contact because contact has the power to lead to greater understanding and affections between groups. It can be a great instrument of change.

People of United States of America have shown the way by electing Obama as their President by keeping dignity of the nation above every thing else.

J & K state can see the similar change in their young and dynamic Chief Minister who is developing a vision of making it as a model state by addressing the core issues honestly. Each stake holder in the state owes it to the people for they have taken the first step for the change. The political leadership has to be honest to it self.

Resolve of the people for embracing the change need to be strengthened. Participation by Mr. Lone in the coming Parliamentary Elections is another indication of the transformation for all those who believe that hate can be the substitute for love, and distrust and amenity can be more potent than trust and friendship. J&K state is a glaring example of composite culture and nationhood.

An honest appeal and pardon can definitely bring in the required transformation good governance can certainly sustain it.

Synergy bonding of the present coalition government can become the bright corner of the dark tunnel and fill in the expected gaps. Suspicion replacing faith and faith can move mountains.