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Politics of Terror

The Gun Culture

Friday, September 27, 2002
The Hindustan Times

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Pakistan had gained expertise in effectively supporting and coordinating the Jehadi elements in Afghanistan and was gearing up to put it to use in J&K. The initial objective was to create outfits largely manned by Kashmiris and dedicated to Islamisation. One of the outfits that found great favour with Pakistan was Al Badr. Established in 1989, it was renamed Hizb-ul Mujahideen.

Jammu and Kashmir have become the hotbed of terror politics with splinter groups and foreign mercenaries striking with impunity at civilian and military installations. Armed and trained by Pakistan Intelligence these groups are trying to instill fear among the moderate Kashmiris by stifling their voice and creating a wedge among the Hindu and Muslim population.

Terrorism and gun culture picked up in Jammu and Kashmir ever since Pakistan recognized that it cannot take on the conventionally superior Indian military might and resorted to proxy war in late 1980's. The whole operation by Pakistan was to bleed India by attacking its important installations and military targets and engaging the para-military and armed forces in a guerilla warfare.

Terrorism gained strength from 1989 onwards in the valley often perceived to be on the popularity and support of local people. But few realize, these supports are often sought at gunpoint.

Lasting a decade, the Pak-sponsored sustained insurgency campaign has turned Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) into a State where no fresh political ideology could establish its root. Thus giving people no option but to follow the dictates of Gun and Grenade.
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2002 © The Hindustan Times.

Dan