Over time, so much that earlier was a norm, hasn’t found a space in the society and the eradication of the same has paved a way for tranquillity and stability in Kashmir. No one can deny the fact that over the last few years, the hartals have disappeared from the scene altogether; the street protests have become invisible while stone pelting has, as if, faced extinction. The encounters of the security forces with the militants, which earlier used to witness mobs challenging the personnel dealing with the situation, have also witnessed a great transformation—now these operations take place without the collateral damages, and the indulgence of the mobs. In and out, clean.
The change in the security scenario and the dealing of the security forces has led to a few more positives which include an end to frequent internet shutdowns, no funeral procession of killed militants and their glamorisation, which earlier was a strong trend and would often unnerve the security establishment. The drastic change in the situation has indeed benefited all sections of society and it also points to the effectiveness of the security forces and other law enforcement agencies, especially J&K Police in successfully dealing with the anti-peace elements in Kashmir.
The present circumstances concerning the security situation are encouraging. The same presents a ray of hope that promises sustained peace and strengthened stability in the Valley. The security establishment has also been coming down heavily on the elements—who have been promoting anti-peace activities in Kashmir by sitting on the other side of the border—and enough hits have been given that the Government would be initiating legal action against the culprits who have always wanted to see Kashmir simmering and unstable so that they could keep their businesses up and running. There is a hope that every possible measure would be taken by the establishment to ensure that peace returns to Kashmir in toto and those who have been working hard to make this place hell, are pursued and punished so that the same acts as a deterrent to others who subscribe to such ill-ideologies. Kashmir deserves peace and there is a need to ensure that the pillars that guarantee peace are strengthened and rebuilt wherever needed.
