Editor,
The devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed the lives of dozens of tourists, is a grim—if not entirely unsurprising—reminder of the deep rot that continues to plague the valley. It is not an aberration, but yet another episode in the long history of Islamist terror, brutality, and communal hatred that has defined the region for decades. The initial reactions have been predictably full of outrage and strong condemnations, along with pointed questions aimed at the government and armed forces. All of this is understandable. But perhaps it is time to acknowledge that the real “intelligence” failure was not solely institutional—it was societal, too.
Viewed objectively, it is astonishing that Kashmir is still considered a tourist destination. It has long been the nation’s epicentre of Islamist fundamentalism and communal violence, and remains the only region in India to have carried out a complete religious cleansing, as seen in the expulsion and killing of Hindu Pandits in the 1990s. Every year, innocents—workers, pilgrims, tourists, and even office staff—are targeted and killed, most often for the simple reason of being non-Muslim. Yet not only has the government continued to promote this deeply hostile and dangerous region to tourists, but society at large has also bought into the narrative, seemingly shutting off all critical thinking. Are we truly so naïve as to forget the cycle of violence that recurs in Kashmir? Or are we simply unwilling to confront the implications?
The government certainly must be held accountable for this security lapse. However, it’s becoming increasingly clear that the Indian state lacks the capacity to guarantee complete safety in Kashmir. Multiple strategies have been tried—none have succeeded, chiefly because no one wants to admit the uncomfortable truth: the Kashmir problem is not just due to external actors like Pakistan, but because there is a deep reservoir of local residents who harbour hatred for other Indians on religious grounds, and who facilitate and carry out these murders. As such, it is a societal issue, and solving it requires drastic decisions that the Indian government can never take (or even admit are required). Take, for instance, China’s approach to its Xinjiang province, once similarly plagued by Islamist separatism and terror among its Uyghur majority. After the 2014 Kunming massacre, the Chinese government responded with harsh, controversial measures like mass surveillance and re-education camps. Since then, China has seen no Islamist attacks and is unlikely to see another anytime soon. While many may decry this “harsh” approach, the outcome is undeniable—China has eradicated the threat, and saved lives.
India, bound by democratic constraints, cannot pursue such extreme solutions. Hence the reduced frequency of attacks in recent years is the best outcome it can hope to achieve. It can never ensure genuine security and peace, and incidents like Pahalgam will continue to happen. Therefore, instead of relying on institutions that are clearly unable to provide foolproof protection, perhaps it is time for us—as citizens—to act with greater caution and self-preservation.
Many regions around the world affected by Islamist terror are naturally avoided by tourists. Its time to apply the same logic to Kashmir. What makes it different from Iraq, aside from its landscape? The scale of incidents may differ, but both are marked by Islamist radicalism among its populace and a continuous cycle of violence. That Kashmir is in such a dire state despite being part of the Indian Union only makes the situation more damning—at least Iraq has the excuse of being a failed state.
This is thus my appeal to my fellow citizens: value your lives. There are countless beautiful places across India—including other Himalayan regions like Arunachal Pradesh—that do not require playing Russian roulette just to take in scenic views. Let us spare ourselves, our armed forces, and our government the burden of securing what they lack the will, freedom and means to secure. We can only foolishly hope Pahalgam will be the last time lives are lost in the pursuit of a holiday in this so-called “paradise on earth”.
Yours etc.,
N.K. Kehar
Shillong- 3
India’s commitment to battle terror
Editor,
Apropos of the editorial “Kashmir’s Bloody Saga Returns” (ST April 24th 2025), the recent attack in Pahalgam, where terrorists targeted tourists based on their religion, is deeply tragic and horrifying. Reports suggest that the provocative speech by Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, who is facing an internal revolt within the Pakistani Army, referring to Kashmir as Pakistan’s “jugular vein” and emphasizing the two-nation theory, may have emboldened militant groups like The Resistance Front (TRF) to carry out such heinous acts. This rhetoric, which highlights divisions and fuels hostility, has been widely condemned for its potential role in inciting violence. Acts of terror like this underscore the urgent need for global unity against extremism and the importance of fostering dialogue and understanding across communities. The aftermath of General Asim Munir’s speech – the Pahalgam attack has indeed raised serious concerns. His rhetoric, emphasizing divisive ideologies, seems to have emboldened extremist groups, leading to devastating consequences. The loss of innocent lives is a stark reminder of the power and responsibility that comes with leadership and public statements. Accountability is crucial in such situations, and the global community will likely scrutinize his actions and words closely. Religious fundamentalism, regardless of its origin, often fuels division, intolerance, and violence. It undermines the shared values of humanity and disrupts the harmony needed for global peace.
Prime Minister, Narendra Modi in his speech from Bihar stated categorically that India will identify, track and punish every terrorist and those backing them and pursue them to the ends of the earth and that India’s spirit would never be broken by terrorism. Prime Minister Modi’s statement reflects a strong and resolute stance against terrorism, emphasizing India’s commitment to justice and its determination to protect its citizens. His choice to deliver part of the speech in English, particularly the phrase, “pursue them to the ends of the earth,” sends a clear message to the international community about India’s unwavering resolve. This approach not only addresses domestic concerns but also seeks global solidarity in combating terrorism. A positive and strong statement like that of Prime Minister Modi can rally international support and send a clear message to those who threaten peace. They also reinforce the resolve of a nation to stand united against terrorism. The global community often responds positively to such decisive leadership, especially when it aligns with broader efforts to combat extremism.
Yours etc;
VK Lyngdoh,
Via email
Quick response from STP
Editor,
I believe credit should be given where it is due. This time I am referring to the prompt response of Shillong Traffic Police to a request I had made. As a parent who drops and picks up my son daily at All Saints’ Diocesan Higher Secondary School, it is my observation and that other parents as well, that the failure of a lot of drivers to respect and obey the “No Entry” signage at the Lachaumiere junction leading towards the school has been posing a problem for everyone dropping their children/wards to school in the morning since the road is a narrow one and everyone is in a hurry to get to school on time. In this regard, I spoke with Mr Dasgupta, the Traffic in-charge, Sadar Police Station and requested him to depute some sterner personnel to man the said junction around the 8:30 to 9:20 AM period, to prevent such violations. This morning a group of us were pleasantly surprised to see no vehicles coming towards the school from the said direction and with the “No Entry” signage at the south block junction being strictly enforced, the students could walk freely to the school without having to dodge any vehicle. I would like to commend the said officer for his prompt response to a genuine request for action. I also exhort fellow drivers to respect and obey traffic rules, for our collective good.
Yours etc.,
Donboklang Dohling
Shillong -5