A Valley Betrayed

of evolution.

One of the most revealing and gripping parts of the book is about the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley,and how Governor Jagmohan fueled alienation and distrust in Kashmir by being one of its most repressive and vindictive figures post 1987. The author has,with remarkable clarity,indicated that the exodus was avoidable,and how in dealing with the situation that preceded it,Jagmohan actually ended up facilitating it. He provides details about then Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed’s role in thrusting Jagmohan on Kashmir and allowing him to play havoc,alienating even the top brass of the government administration. Sayeed’s intentions were ruthlessly selfish and opportunistic — his vengeance and vindictiveness overshadowing the fact that he was a Kashmiri Muslim.

Jagmohan’s personal dislike of Dr Farooq Abdullah,and the dismissal of his government during his second gubernatorial term forms an interesting read,as does the roots of the animosity between the two ruling families of Kashmir. Another very informative part of this book is Habibullah’s recollection of the Hazratbal siege,which was followed by a roller-coaster round of negotiations and turmoil across the Valley.

In his referencing of historical accords and statements by Indian prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and IK Gujral,the author traces a trajectory of political inaction. He also writes about his interactions with separatist leaders and his perceptions about them,but has chosen to be non-judgmental and dignified in his assessment.

He examines the solutions proposed by the separatist leadership and also notes with concern the vagueness of rhetoric that has submerged critical thought when it comes to leadership. He writes about the “vision documents” of resolution,including “Achievable Nationhood”,a document authored by me. I agree with him in his assertion that a solution to the Kashmir issue will have to come from within and will have to take into account the sensitivities and expectations of the people of Kashmir.

Habibullah has painstakingly deconstructed the concept and demand of “Azadi”,focusing his attention on real demands and issues — common grievances in Kashmir that morph into hostility towards the Indian state,if not the concept of India.

In writing this absolutely objective,courageous and honest account of his experiences in Kashmir and his ideas for resolution,the author has made no pretensions of assuming what a common Kashmiri aspires for but rather underlines the need for a common Kashmiri to be included in a process of resolution and long-term engagement.

The book is perhaps one of the most courageous accounts about Kashmir with its revelations of mischief,manipulation and hijacked initiatives by various parties to the conflict,for instance the role played by National Conference in ensuring that the All-Party Hurriyat Conference didn’t ratify the state elections of 2002. The author has boldly criticised the state for failing to understand the issue and responding in a manner that has exacerbated the situation.

The book is a must-read for all Kashmiri leaders,observers,policymakers and analysts.