Introduction

Kashmir, which was once described by Mahatma Gandhi as an island of secularism in the Indian sub-continent, is in turmoil. Yes it is. It is only democracy that provides an outlet whereby political grievances can be aired, positions narrowed and accommodation achieved. A democracy can deal with a movement of political dissent by talking, discussing and acting. It cannot when the other side does not believe in talking, does not believe in an opposition or representative government, in fact does not believe in democracy itself.

Destruction of houses by Pak Trained terrorists
 Destruction of houses by Pak Trained terrorists

Kashmir, therefore, represents, a major challenge to Indian democracy, in fact to all democracies how can a democracy confront a non-democratic system that only uses catchy democratic phrases such as Human Rights, self-determination etc. in the furtherance of its 'cause' while denying all such democratic values itself ? How can a democracy take on a religious crusade, "Jehad", that does not believe in democratic tenets but exploits them to the hilt for advancing its vested interests ?

Pakistan has claimed for itself a role in speaking for the Indian Muslims, in general, and the Kashmiris in particular. It has claimed the right to extend moral and political support to them. Its covert support in terms of providing arms and training, to terrorists and subversives has already been well documented and exposed.

This tract takes a close look at the situation in Kashmir and at Pakistan's own track record as a 'champion of Human Rights'. Can human rights, essentially a democratic concept, be applied selectively ? Whose human rights are being violated anyway ? What is Pakistan's own record in respecting human rights - and treatment of minorities ? What does self-determination mean in an Islamic context?

Understanding the Kashmir Turmoil

UNDERSTANDING THE KASHMIR TURMOIL
Index
About the Author
Introduction
Kashmir Incredibility syndrome
Strategy of Terrorism
Forced Migration
Fundamentalism
Whose Human Rights?
Pakistan's Human Rights
Systematic Killing of Hindus