news details |
|
|
| Where are Kashmir's elected representatives? | | | Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 6: As Kashmir continues to burn, the elected representatives have either fled the valley or, are too scared to come out of their fortified houses. According to reports, both guest houses of the state in New Delhi are filled to capacity. VIPs, MLAs and even some ministers are holidaying in the capital with their familes. And, those who stayed back are in `self imposed house arrest'.
Former intelligence chief of the state, Dr Ashok Bhan, wrote a thought provoking article for Institute of Peace & Conflict Studies on July 6. He suggested a greater role for elected representatives. "The elected representatives need to be strengthened. They have to be accountable to the people. The internal dialogue must continue independent of the progress on the Indo-Pak front. This is in our own interest. Internal dialogue can be a useful tool to move out of the present situation." He further said that all the stakeholders must get together in support of the elected representatives. "They must not be pushed to the wall. The only gainers in such a situation will be the separatists and anti-national elements", he added.
But where are the elected representatives? The only MLA who tried to reach the people was booked for causing breach of peace and public order by Bhan's organization (Police). It seems, there are no takers for Bhan's theory even in his own organization. Surprisingly the Speaker of the elected house gave consent for registering a case against the MLA. The MLA was booked at a time when New Delhi urged the state government to reach the people.
The elected representatives know what Bhan is also aware of. The 2008 assembly elections witnessed unprecedented participation of the people. Some people even perceived it as death of separatism. The voters made clear that they had come to booths for Bijli, Pani and Sadak (Water, electricity and roads).
Yesterday, the Chief Minister visited Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) to enquire about the health of the wounded. He received some tough moments as patients and their attendants heckled him. His political advisor, Mubarak Gul received similar treatment at Bone and Joint Hospital.
The elected representatives have failed to provide water, electricity and roads. And the people, by and large perceive them as part of the problem. Who then represents Kashmiris? Leaders like Syed Ali Shah Geelani have been forced to clarify their position. In a statement issued today he said Masrat Alam will be giving programmes for the time being. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
STOCK UPDATE |
|
|
 |
| BSE
Sensex |
 |
| NSE
Nifty |
|
|
| |
CRICKET UPDATE |
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
