The promises of peace in Kashmir

While the appointment of an interlocutor has generated hope, a serious effort at peace is not possible unless there is some evidence of retreat by the Indian Army

In August this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi signalled a change in his thinking on Kashmir. In his Red Fort address, along with the building of a ‘new India’, he said the problems ailing Kashmir would only be resolved by embracing Kashmiris, not through abusive language or bullets. “Na goli se, na gaali se, Kashmir ki samasya suljhegi gale lagaane se,” the PM said. 

Many — including some outspoken critics of the government — endorsed the Prime Minister’s speech and suggested a way forward. The Concerned Citizens Group, led by activist Sushobha Barve, which has former finance and foreign minister Yashwant