Kashmir deserves more than Tiranga rallies and token visits. It deserves dignity, development, and decisive political engagement. The people of Kashmir have time and again shown their belief in the Indian Constitution—through participation in elections, pursuit of education, and resilience against radicalization. They believe they are Indians. What they seek now is not symbolism, but sincerity.
The restoration of statehood is not just a political demand—it is a democratic right. Leaders like Omar Abdullah and others have consistently called for meaningful governance, not just administrative control. New Delhi must move beyond optics and reimagine its approach to Kashmir through the lens of inclusion, empathy, and empowerment.
The youth of Kashmir don’t want slogans—they want schools that stay open, jobs that don’t require migration, and a future built on hope, not fear. As Prime Minister Modi once said, the choice must be between tourism and terrorism. But for that to be a real choice, Kashmir needs investment, not surveillance—trust, not just troops.
This is not about giving in to pressure—it is about standing by the very values that make India proud: democracy, federalism, and justice. The ceasefire is a beginning, but not a solution. A genuine political outreach, listening to Kashmiri voices, and undoing the alienation bred over decades is the only path forward.
Let us not miss this chance again. It’s time to respect Kashmiris as equal citizens, restore their rights, and reimagine a future where their dreams and India’s destiny walk the same path—not in parallel, but together.
