Jaibans Singh India, the largest democracy in the world, is gearing up for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections; a poll schedule of nine phases has been announced from April, 7 to May, 12 with the final counting on May, 16. Elections in India normally have an aura of festivity around them; lots of drums, banners, mudslinging, corny politics and fantastic promises mark the proceedings. … [Read more...] about Preparing for elections in Jammu and Kashmir
Terrorists have lost the winter battle in Jammu and Kashmir
Jaibans Singh The chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, during the discussion on the motion of thanks to the Governor for his address to the joint session of the two houses of the state legislature on February, 17, was outright in his rejection of allegations that peace in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) was ‘deceptive’ as it had been achieved by ‘force’. He gave … [Read more...] about Terrorists have lost the winter battle in Jammu and Kashmir
Afsal Guru: the emerging patron saint of Pakistani Jihadists
Jaibans Singh Jihadist groups in Pakistan have taken it upon themselves to make an Islamic icon out of Afsal Guru. In September, 2013, a 94-page book titled, “Ahle Imaan Ke Naam Saheed Mohammad Afsal Guru Ka Aakhri Paigam,” was released by JKLF leader, Nayeem Khan, at a Srinagar hotel. Published by National Front, a constituent of the Hurriyat Conference, the book is said to … [Read more...] about Afsal Guru: the emerging patron saint of Pakistani Jihadists
Dealing with the TTP: vacillation will not get Pakistan anywhere
Jaibans Singh The manner in which the much touted talks between the government of Pakistan and the militant conglomerate Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) are developing is confusing to say the least. In the very first meeting with the negotiating committee, the TTP representatives had clarified that they do not recognise the constitution of Pakistan. The cleric of the Lal … [Read more...] about Dealing with the TTP: vacillation will not get Pakistan anywhere
Change the look of police and paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir
Jaibans Singh A person visiting Srinagar, Kashmir, after the gap of a year or so cannot help but feel that a lot has changed during this period. A drive from the airport to the city cruises through a bustling sea of humanity going about their days work without fear or intimidation, a welcome departure from the tension that was in the air earlier. A significant change is … [Read more...] about Change the look of police and paramilitary forces in Jammu and Kashmir