The Pahalgam terrorist attack was not just terrible cruelty inflicted on innocent tourists, it was a deep strike at the very heart of the Modi Government’s strategy to fully integrate J&K with the rest of India. The foremost aspect of this approach has been to have the Kashmiri people enjoy the benefits of prosperity that come from a peaceful and safe environment. Over the years, the abrogation of Article 270 and the subsequent transformation in infrastructure and the availability of people-focused governance have often been mentioned by PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah as among their prominent achievements. The return of an elected government after an extended period of President’s Rule and the expectation of statehood restoration had further improved the political situation.
Unfortunately, this single blow to the jugular has probably set back the UT’s tourism industry to an enormous extent. People were flocking to J&K following the assurances given on restoration of peace and normalcy. In present circumstances, people will not wish to risk their families’ lives no matter how beautiful and enjoyable a holiday there can be. Considering the fact that the number of people with disposable incomes is greatly on the rise in India, Tourism is booming everywhere. With its USP, J&K has been one of the most sought-after destinations in the country. It will take an enormous effort to revive public faith in J&K as the go to place for honeymooners and family vacationers. The economy is bound to take a big hit with many locals losing their jobs and businesses.
Avenging the Pahalgam attack by eliminating the group of terrorists responsible will not serve the purpose. The challenge now is to make it completely impossible for Pakistan to sponsor such terrorism. Over the past decade and more, much has been done to defang that rogue nation, but quite obviously the task is not complete. The cross-border strikes of the past were meant to communicate to the Pakistani deep state that India can, and will, up the stakes to any level if required. Now, the people are demanding that more effective action be taken at the right time and right way. In this context, it may be noted that it is the Pakistani military establishment that is directly responsible for terror-sponsorship, not so much the elected governments. As such, a way must be found to end the Pak military’s hold on power, and it must be done soon. There is no other solution.
