The Modi government’s unilateral suspension of counter-insurgency operations against terrorists in Kashmir during the holy month of Ramzan is a commendable move. The decision indicates that the BJP government at the Centre is sensitive and empathetic towards the concerns of both the Jammu and Kashmir government and the opposition who in an all-party meet last week had appealed to New Delhi to extend an olive branch to the terror groups starting from Ramzan till the end of Amarnath pilgrimage.

The unanimous plea was based on the thinking that a unilateral ceasefire would provide respite to ordinary civilians who need to observe their religious obligations without the inconvenience caused by anti-terror operations. Also, since the police force comprises mostly local Kashmiri Muslims, the ceasefire grants some recess to many personnel and officers who fast through the month of Ramzan.

Politically and strategically, this initiative, allows the government to claim a higher moral ground. Prime Minister Modi not only conceded to the demands of his coalition partner in J&K, the PDP headed by chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, but also honoured the religious sentiments of a minority community in the country.

Besides, this approach of New Delhi puts the entire onus on Pakistan-backed terror groups in Kashmir for all the violence that happens during the suspension of combat operations by the security forces. In fact, soon after the announcement of suspension of offensive operations was made, Lashkar-e-Taiba outright rejected the government’s offer and terrorists attacked security forces at three different places in Kashmir. The opposition and human rights activists, who have been vociferously holding the government’s counter-insurgency operations responsible for the escalation in violence and recruitment of terrorists in Kashmir, will now find it hard to blame the Centre.

Courtesy: Times of India May 17, 2018