Strategy of Military and Non-Military Measures: Imperative for Stability in Kashmir

"Kashmiri society will face major crisis because the children of Jihad have no skill beyond that of a fighter or a stone pelter, and as a result their integration with the society will be a major issue. The reality is that over a period of time terrorist groups have accumulative extensive hard power, they also have considerable soft power in terms of management of public perception, which they have proved to be adept in using.8 These youths have now started to define their identity with the perceived ‘just cause’. Public adulation and glorification of so called martyrdom is fueling this perception and youth believe that that this is the right path. A popular sentiment is being evoked that there is no glory to die natural death than to die as a martyr for the cause of Jihad. Theoretically, if the current situation in Kashmir is examined, it indicates that there is break down in relationships between youth and society, youth and state authorities and parents and children. It has manifested primarily due to frustration against lack of opportunities for development, lack of recognition and identity. Whether it is tension, conflict, or violence, it has origins in divisions in class, status, ethnicity, religion, or ethno religious nationalism."