Yadullah, Deputy Commissioner, Kupwara

·         How do you see the Indo-Pak peace diplomacy?

People are very happy about it. They are now fed up of the violence they have seen for last one decade. The two countries have got some breakthrough and people hope for some outcome in view of recent developments.

·         What role do you see for the US and UN in resolving the Kashmir issue?

We are living in a unipolar world. The United States is playing its role as the only superpower in the world. As the world scenario has changed, so have international relations also. As such, US’ role is quite evident.

·         In your opinion, do you think the APHC are the real representatives of the Kashmiri people?

Nobody has put it to test as to whether the APHC are real representatives of people or not. There should be some kind of referendum which can prove their popular character. Only then can one say whether the APHC are the real representatives or not.

·         Do you think an Independent Kashmir would be a viable solution to the Kashmir problem? How do you view accession to Pakistan? And, could conversion of LOC into an international border prove to be a solution to the dispute? 

I am not a politician. I have my own feelings about international boundaries. I feel that international boundaries are medieval concepts. The world has come closer; it is just like a small village because of information and technology. I believe that the world must strive for removal of international boundaries everywhere. These are false boundaries and their maintenance costs huge resources in terms of manpower and money that are being wasted. 

·         If Kashmir gets independence, what type of government would you like to see ruling the state?

I am not a politician.  Better ask this question to a politician

·         How serious is the confrontation on Indo-Pak borders. In this context, how serious is the possession of nuclear weapons in the two countries?

It is very serious. Anything can happen any time. It is a very bad situation. 

·         Has the Mufti Government been able to improve the ground situation in Kashmir?

Protests have lessened. Demolition drive has also been acknowledged as a good step. People feel better. 

Bashir Ahmad, President, Bar Association, Kupwara

·         On the current Indo-Pak peace initiative:

I am optimistic and hope for a breakthrough between the two countries. The two must utilize the opportunity and come out with some outcome.

·         Independent Kashmir, Accession to Pakistan, Greater Autonomy to Kashmir, Conversion of LOC into International border:  

 ‘Independent Kashmir’ would definitely resolve a more than fifty year old dispute. Accession to Pakistan is admired be a few. Greater autonomy would give some relief to the people. Conversion of LOC into the International Border would be an unhealthy move.   

·         Presence of foreign militants:

Gun from either side is detrimental. The issue has to be resolved through peaceful means in the interests of the majority.

·         Mufti Government and its healing touch policy

As an impartial observer, this government has to do a lot to win the minds and hearts of the people. As of now, there has been no decrease in bloodshed and violence.

·         Role for the US or UN

The US has a great say in the Kashmir issue. Being a superpower, it can change the world order. The UN seems to be functioning under the US.

On the possibility of Indo-Pak dialogue, the official point of view seems to match the common view. Officials in government are optimistic about the Indo-Pak dialogue; a hope expressed by the majority in rural Kashmir. Common people and officials see American intervention behind this development.

Although the officials in the government doubt the Hurriyat’s representative character and believe an election would better prove its popular character but, at the same time, they invite government to take the 23-party amalgam into confidence. They believe that by doing so, the government would not face difficulty in dealing with militancy in the Valley.