Letters-62: "Kashmir Elections"

1. The Kashmir verdict is an opportunity for the NC and the Congress to fulfil the people's aspirations and wean them away from separatist and fundamentalist groups. If they rise to the need of the hour, J&K can be transformed into an abode of peace and unity. - J.Srinivasan, Dindigul.

2. Whichever combination forms the government, it should carry forward development activities. Political parties should stop playing into the hands of separatists, wittingly or unwittingly. This watershed election should usher in a new beginning for the long-suffering people of the State. - R.Unni Krishnan, Kochi.

3. The election is no doubt a reiteration of Kashmiris' faith in democracy. But they deserve special praise for not being cowed down by threats. It was clear from media reports that many senior citizens who had never voted before exercised their franchise this time. Once again, it has been proved that terrorism and communalism cannot last long. - Om Pratap Singh, New Delhi.

4. The J&K Assembly election results mark the triumph of democracy in India. The separatists have been totally sidelined. They would do well to honourably wind up their operations. A great responsibility rests on the new coalition government. Its first task should be to restore law and order in the State and make tourism safer. If the new dispensation delays action on the ground, it will lose the sympathy of the voters. As for the Centre, a great opportunity knocks at its door. The democratic choice of the people could form the basis of fresh discussions for a permanent settlement of the Kashmir issue. Pakistan can no longer claim that the wishes of the people of J&K have not been ascertained. - K.P.R.Iyer, Bangalore.

5. The people of J&K have spoken unambiguously through the ballot that despite the call for poll-boycott by secessionist groups. The message is clear: popular will cannot be subjugated by guns. The people have achieved a silent revolution. It is now for their representatives in the State and the Centre to work in unison to bring all sections, including militants, into the democratic mainstream. - Chandran Dharmalingam, The Nilgiris.

Courtesy: The Hindu, Madurai, December 30, 2008 ("Letters to the Editor").

Grateful thanks to M/s.J.Srinivasan, R.Unni Krishnan, Om Pratap Singh, K.P.R.Iyer, Chandran Dharmalingam and The Hindu.