| Dialogue must evolve J&K needs conversations on people's issues, not just conflict, Dr Jahanzaib Sirwal | | | Early Times Report
JAMMU, July 1: Disgruntled BJP leader Dr. Jahanzaib Sirwal today welcomed the renewed calls for dialogue, stating that peace, stability, and prosperity remain the foremost aspirations of every citizen of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that any sincere initiative aimed at reducing mistrust and strengthening peace deserves appreciation.
However, Dr. Sirwal emphasized that it is equally important to redefine and broaden the very idea of dialogue in Jammu and Kashmir. For decades, the term "dialogue" or "baatcheet" has largely remained confined to the narrative of conflict. As a consequence, meaningful dialogue on the day-to-day issues affecting the people of Jammu and Kashmir with New Delhi has often been overshadowed and diluted.
"A generation has passed witnessing politics centred around dialogue on conflict. While discussions on peace and security have their own significance, the time has come to expand the prism of dialogue to include the real aspirations and everyday concerns of the people," he said.
Dr. Sirwal stressed that there are pressing issues requiring structured engagement between Jammu and Kashmir and the Union Government. Students need dialogue on education, scholarships, research opportunities, and employment. Young people need dialogue on jobs, entrepreneurship, and skill development. The healthcare sector requires sustained dialogue on infrastructure, medical education, specialist services, and accessibility. Farmers, traders, tourism stakeholders, women, and marginalized communities also deserve focused policy dialogue that directly addresses their concerns.
He said that dialogue should no longer be viewed exclusively through the lens of conflict but should evolve into a comprehensive democratic process of consultation, problem-solving, and development. "If peace is the objective, then people's welfare must become the substance of that peace. Dialogue must move beyond conflict and become a continuous conversation on governance, development, opportunities, and the future of Jammu and Kashmir."
Dr. Sirwal appealed to all political parties and stakeholders to collectively work towards redefining the discourse around dialogue, making it more inclusive, people-centric, and development-oriented so that it reflects the aspirations of a new generation seeking dignity, opportunity, and progress. |
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