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Elections in Kashmir - Sunanda Vashisht Sunanda Vashisht was born in the beautiful valley of Kashmir, India when Kashmir was known for its unparalleled natural beauty and not as a cauldron of fear and terror. She did most of her schooling in Delhi and dabbled with several professions before moving to U.S last year. she is currently pursuing higher studies here. she likes to introduce herself as an explorer because she wants to spend all her time in this world exploring unknown. Writing for her is a cathartic experience. She can't remember when she began writing first but she does know that writing has always helped her to be at peace with herself and with the world around her.

The result of Kashmir Elections is out. Mufti Mohammed Sayeed took reins as the chief minister with the help of Congress. Despite the bickering about who would run the government and all the drama for the top post, finally the consensus has been arrived. The results have no doubt been surprising and lots of people have different opinions about the verdict. However, one thing is clear. The successful election in Kashmir was actually the biggest boost for democracy in India.

It was confirmed by independent sources that the elections were not rigged, which is clear because National Conference lost the mandate and BJP nearly was wiped out. However, by conducting free and fair elections in Kashmir, BJP has gained everything and lost nothing. It has proved to the world that Indian Government is willing to initiate the peaceful democratic process in India. It has also proved to the world that Kashmir situation is more complex than pro-pakistan majority wanting to secede to Pakistan.

An interesting contrast to Kashmir elections was provided by the presidential elections in Pakistan. It has been widely reported that Pervez Musharraf’s election to the top post was deeply flawed and everything possible was done to ensure that Musharraf retained the power for good. I have no wish to comment on Pakistan’s elections for I understand it is their internal matter and Pakistanis should be the one to comment on it. But I would surely like to point out that next time Pakistan tries to talk about democracy to India, it should look at its flawed electoral history first and its struggle to retain democratic process.

One understands that these elections definitely are not the solution to bleeding Kashmir. I definitely feel that this is the first step to include Kashmiris in the mainstream and start a healing process. The defeat of National Conference also proves that NC is not the only pro India party in Kashmir. There are other political parties comprising of Kashmiris who see the future of Kashmir with India.

If New Delhi continues to work sincerely on Kashmir problem I am sure that Kashmir militancy will also go the Punjab way where the secessionist forces were made to realize that their future lies in the democratic India.

I personally am very happy that after a long time one good thing has come out of Kashmir problem and I am positive that this election would go a long way in healing the Kashmiris.

We at SAWF wish a very Happy Diwali to all our readers and hope that the coming year is full of peace and contentment for all of you.

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