By: Tehmeena Rizvi, Bureau Chief-ICN Jammu & Kashmir
In recent years, extremist groups have shaped our image of radicalisation. These groups message of intolerance- religious, cultural, social and had drastic consequences for many regions mostly Jammu and Kashmir.
Nothing can justify radicalisation but we must also acknowledge that it does not arise in a vacuum. Where human rights are being violated, good governance has been ignored, sweeping changes become attractive. This situation gets worsened by the availability of weapons and people becoming familiar to violence after being exposed to conflict for so long. It is in this sense that Roy has rightly observed that ‘terrorism does not arise from the radicalisation of Islam, but from Islamisation of radicalism. Radicalisation has a deep-rooted impact on our society like the peace is affected in that particular area, which can further lead less socio-economic development of their societies.
In Jammu and Kashmir since 2008 and 2010 unrest, the turmoil has taken a new dimension when people, particularly youngsters of the Kashmir valley who have started pelting stones on security forces to express their aggression. In turn, they get attacked by armed personnel with pellets, sling shots and tear gas shells. We will not be successful unless we can harness the idealism, creativity and energy of young people, who are the future of every state and country, young people must be viewed as an asset and must be empowered to make a constructive contribution to the political and economic development of the society. Besides all this, Kashmir is losing its ethnic Kashmiriyat, what it was known for. Here we need to examine that, what is pushing them; if its unemployment then why in 2018 an Assistant professor of Kashmir University joined militancy. If its lack of education, then what pushed a Ph.D. scholar to join the same. Individual background and motivations like; personal experiences or societal mishaps add up to all this.
Ideologies and cultural differences in Kashmir have a deep effect on the society, Kashmir was known for Sufism which further turned to Salafism; Salafism is the idea that the most authentic and true Islam is found in the lived example of the early righteous generations of Muslims, known as salafs. On the other hand, Sufis played an important role in the formation of Muslim societies through their missionary and educational activities. According to William Chittick, “In a broad sense, Sufism can be described as the interiorization, and intensification of Islamic faith and practice’. Spirit of Kashmiriyat is in danger because of the culture of extremism from 1990’s. we have lost Kashmir to fanatical religion 30 years ago, who then gave a proof that there is no space for other religions. Tentacle of radicalism have struck deep roots in Kashmir, signs of alienation and growing anti-India sentiments may look familiar, but a churn is taking place beneath the surface.
There is a need to take a more comprehensive approach which encompasses preventive measures. Matter of concern here is that India’s diversity has ensured its colourful fabric which should be reflected in the culture of every state. Whereas, Kashmir is just running on different terms. Government should consciously open more public schools instead of religious schools, mixed home allotments should be given, public spaces should be developed where people from different religions can participate in common activities. State should double the efforts to promote dialogue between parties.
Radicalisation has affected different societies during different times. There is not one tool or approach that will put it to rest.
