Differences between the PDP and the BJP constituting the ruling coalition over the release of Masarat Alam have been sorted out. But there has been no lull in militant attacks. April 6 saw three new attacks in the state. Three J&K policemen were killed in Slopian district. These attacks are evidently aimed at putting the new government in jeopardy and creating a gap on security issues between the PDP and the BJP. It casts a gloom over the tourist season in the valley. Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had recently had his hands full tackling raging floods. He is currently examining the need for denotifying disturbed areas freed from militancy so that the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) can be withdrawn. But there are problems. The army is reluctant to rush to this decision. A section of political leaders want the AFSPA to remain to provide military needs in coping with militant attacks.
Admittedly, a decision on the AFSPA should be taken without delay. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah caused the state much damage allowing the debate over it to go on. The Centre has to alter the status quo if the outstanding issues, especially development, have to be addressed. The alliance partners in J&K have a document demanding lifting of the legislation. Facts justify the withdrawal of the Act. The number of fatalities due to militant attacks has fallen from 4507 in 2011 to 117 in 2012 and 193 in 2014. Of course, any such attack is bound to weaken the state government. On the other hand, continuing the AFSPA will alienate the people of Kashmir. The Act empowers security forces to shoot and kill. The Centre must be aware that lifting the legislation is necessary to create new opportunities in J&K.
