Srinagar: In a clear message that situation in Jammu and Kashmir is changing, the Governor of the State, Satya Pal Malik, said that things are changing and under control through various outreach programs of the government.
As a proof that the situation is changing for the better, the Governor, said that the separatist leaders of Hurriyat Conference were ready for talks with the government. Another positive turn of events is the reduction in stone pelting which was a constant threat to peace in the State.
Satya Pal Malik said, “The ones who turned back Ram Vilas Paswan from their door, they are now ready for talks. The stone pelting after namaz is almost over, we do not like it when a youngster dies. But when a bullet is fired, bullets will be fired in retaliation. That is the reality and this change in stance by them is a welcome sign.”
The Governor was speaking at a State level function in which the administration distributed free-to-air Doordarshan set-top boxes to the residents of the border areas in Jammu and Kashmir.
He also welcomed the separatist Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s recent statement pointing out the menace of drugs in the state. The Governor also warned about the drug problem getting spread.
Malik said that schemes and outreach programs by the government are formulated to bring the youth back to the mainstream. However, he was firm against those youth who fired bullets at the army. The Governor said that if anyone fires then the army will fire back bullets and not bouquets.
He added, “We should work with noble intentions. The youth are being misled that they will ascend to heavens. They actually have two heavens, one in Kashmir, and the other which they will get later if they stay a good Muslim.”
The Modi government has taken a pro active role in diffusing the dangerous situation prevailing in the state. Terrorists are being hunted down by security forces as never before. Separatists leaders who were earlier pampered by the previous governments are now treated with a firm hand. Security cover and other perks for these leaders have been withdrawn.
Many leaders were questioned and their links with Pakistan and terror funding were exposed. Separatist leaders realize that inciting violence and separatism in Jammu and Kashmir is not lucrative as it was before.