FAUJI INDIA - July 2018

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In a swift move, the break-up of BJP-PDP alliance in Jammu & Kashmir took place – as the agenda for the 2019 elections begins to dominate Delhi's thinking now – setting out a new narrative for the Valley. This came in the wake of the temporary respite given by the government's decision to stall aggressive military operations (NICO) in the Valley during Ramzan. But the assassination of a Kashmiri editor, Shujaat Bhukari of 'Rising Kashmir' was a blow to security of human lives in Valley. Somehow, the plot was lost – more so in the absence of any plans beyond Ramzan – and it resulted in the current situation.
Now with Governor's rule, there could be more emphasis on good governance and a freer hand to the security forces to target militants with the NIA gunning for separatist elements, and hopefully put greater pressure on those anti-national Kashmiris who have held the government to ransom. What should also emerge is the realization in the Valley who could grab this chance to opt for a new discourse over the future of Kashmir. This can be the best counter to Pakistan anti-India agenda.
But the issue that is being debated with even greater vigor in the Indian Armed Forces is the opening of Cantonment roads to all local traffic movement. This hasty move by the MoD should have been implemented by a more thorough study in a case by case basis for each Cantt premises. It is ironical that despite the current security scenario and attacks on military locations, this move will only make our Cantts more vulnerable. This is thus the focus of this edition, where we bring out the services' perspective so that the government can consider a roll-back on this 'diktat'.