Kashmir is no longer just a land of mountains, nature, and tourism, but a sad story burned by the political fire of the two countries. Recently, 26 innocent tourists were killed in a horrific attack by gunmen in Pahalgam, Indian-controlled Kashmir. Since this incident, the two nuclear-powered neighbors of South Asia – India and Pakistan – have become heated.
Placing the responsibility for the attack directly on Pakistan, India launched a counter-military operation called ‘Operation Sindoor’ early Wednesday night. The Indian Ministry of Defense claims that the target of this operation was only a terrorist base; no military installations were targeted. However, Pakistan has called it a ‘cowardly attack’ and threatened a strong response.
At least three people were killed and 12 others were injured in missile attacks in Kotli, Bahawalpur, and Muzaffarabad, according to Pakistan Army Spokesperson Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry. Panic has spread in the border villages after this attack. Power supply has been cut off in many places, and the Pakistani administration has allocated Rs 100 crore to deal with the emergency.
In response to India, Pakistan has said that it will respond at the appropriate time and in the right manner. The deployment of troops on the border, counter-threats, and shelling have all raised the possibility of a new war.
The UN Security Council has expressed deep concern in this critical situation. In a closed-door meeting held in New York, they called on the two countries to exercise restraint and defuse tensions through diplomatic channels. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres directly commented, “Now is the time to exercise restraint. If a conflict breaks out, it can spread uncontrollably.”
But these words do not seem to bring any comfort to the ordinary people of Kashmir. A teacher in Churanda village said that there are only six bunkers in the village, while the population is more than 1,500. Where will they go if war breaks out? This is not only their question, but also that of peace-loving people all over the world.
The question arises – where is the life of Kashmiris amidst this arrogance, revenge, and military response? War is not a solution, it only brings death, displacement, and an uncertain future. Is the opinion of the Kashmiris ever valued in this tug of political power?
In this situation, peaceful dialogue can be the only humane and sustainable solution. The dreams of Kashmiris should not be drowned in the roar of cannons. Rather, the future of this region should be determined on the basis of peace, justice, and human rights.
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