There is difference between a reaction and an insightful response

The open letter by Javeed Ali has many layers of ambiguity, as he fails to articulate his stand on Kashmir.

At times, it appears he is content with Indian rule in J&K, but wants certain constitutional guarentees respected. Why would a perceived occupier be interested in “winning the hearts and minds of Kashmiris”?

2. There are many issues with the use of terminology. “They provoke Kashmiri youth by using wrong tactics and portray them as terrorists on ‘National media'”. Who is “they”? ‘National media’?

3.The writer casually mentions the term “stakeholders” without defining who the major “stakeholders” are. Again, a refuge in ambiguity.

4. He argues that “fiddling with article 370 or 35A”, which implies the writer is not seeking a solution outside the ambits of Indian constitution, but he doesn’t make his stand on the issue and solution known either.

5. “Indian establishment needs to own Kashmiris…” why would India own Kashmiris?

6. The writer wants to discuss multiple issues without focusing on one or two specific points, which compromises continuity, language and the flow.

7. Also, there are many issues with the language. It should be “in the garb of”, not “on the garb”. Similarly, “losing ground in Kashmir”, not “losing ground on Kashmir “. Does the writer want India to gain control in Kashmir?

8. He argues people on roads demanding what is their birthright, but doesn’t make it known. Is is the right to self-determination? If yes, then why he confuses himself or the readers by arguing that “people want freedom from detentions etc”?

9. He also mentions “aspirations of the people of J&K”, but again fails to elaborate what these aspirations are.

10. One sees a sincere person in Javeed. He is also young. And gaining experience every single day. But it seems he is in a hurry to write without reading much about the issues he wants to write on.

I wish him all the best with this hope that he focuses on clarity of thought, and invests more time in reading while avoiding temptations of reacting in haste. There is a difference between a reaction and an insightful response. Hope this critical feedback is taken in a positive way. It is meant as constrictive criticism, not to discourage the writer.

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