Kashmir has erupted once again just like it did in early 90's. The march to the Line of Control(LOC), pampore, UN military observers group in Srinagar and eidgah have destroyed the myth that Kashmiris have given up their desire to breathe free . All these rallies were big and people came out to express their desire to secede from India. It is funny how India thought that Kashmir problem would somehow go away if we stop recognizing the dispute. It is like you close your eyes and nobody will be able to see you. People are dying and they are saying something. Instead of brushing it away India should recognize Kashmiris as humans with dignity and listen to what they have to say. Shooting unarmed protesters will only make things worse. One of the arguments that I have heard from Indian experts is that everybody does not want to secede. Fair enough. I want to ask them, then why are you scared to hold a plebiscite or a referendum. I think it is time for India to honor its commitments to the people of Kashmir and let them decide what they want. Does India want people who will consider themselves as separate from the mainland or does it want their hearts to be with them. Kashmir's heart does not lie with India. It does not lie with Pakistan either. It is yearning for the space to decide its own fate. Don't tell it what to do. Give it a chance to breathe and to express. More curbs will make it more rebellious and India has already lost it although the territory is still under its control.
Separatists leaders must realize this as well. Don't try to be bigger than the nation. Listen to the heart beat of the people of Kashmir and do not ignore it. History in Kashmir has shown us enough times, what happens when a leader does that.
P.S.: People of Jammu and Ladakh will also get what they really want if this state is allowed to express its free will.
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