Raja Syed Rather
Srinagar, Dec 7: The former GOC Corps Commander Lieutenant General, Devendra Pratap Pandey on Saturday said that Kashmir after three decades is witnessing a significant shift toward peace and stability, cautioning that this tranquility, achieved after countless sacrifices, must be nurtured and treated as a treasure—cared for like one would care for their own children.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Kashmir Literature Festival 2024 in Srinagar, Pandey urged the Kashmiri youth to resist harmful influences and focus on building a prosperous, pluralistic society. “The future is extraordinarily bright if we unite and protect the peace we have achieved,” he said. .
“After 30 years of unrest, we are now witnessing a significant and important shift in Kashmir. Over the past five to six years, a series of events and functions have taken place, but this marks the first major intellectual event of its kind in Srinagar,” he said. “It is a symbol of peace and stability returning to the region. I am particularly pleased to see this happening because it signifies that the youth of Kashmir are eager for such intellectual, intelligent, and mature programs.”
The Lt General, known for his extensive service along western borders and as a key leader during pivotal moments such as Operation Vijay (Kargil), expressed hope that the emerging atmosphere of peace would be nurtured and preserved.
“This stability and peace, achieved after countless sacrifices, must be treated as a treasure, cared for like one would care for their own children—allow it to grow, mature, and flourish. Generations here have witnessed conflict and a disturbed environment. But today, the visible smiles on people’s faces are a powerful symbol of positive change.”
Lt. Gen. Pandey added that disruptions had adversely affected Kashmir’s socio-economic fabric while benefiting certain vested interests. “Earlier disturbances often generated significant media attention, and conflict was monetized. However, the real loss was borne by the ordinary people—the farmer unable to tend to his field, the student unable to attend school, and the common citizen facing delays in essential work,” he said.
He urged the youth of Kashmir to steer clear of radicalization and other harmful influences that exploit their potential for personal agendas. “Stay away from drugs and from those who try to lead you astray. Focus on prosperity and peace. Ask your political leaders the right questions—how they will provide jobs, how you can become responsible citizens, and how you can contribute to the nation,” he said.
Furthermore, Pandey likened a united society to a fist: “Individual fingers can easily be broken, but when they form a fist, they become a source of strength. Kashmir is an integral part of this strength.”
The retired general also lauded the efforts of Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces in supporting the region’s stability but emphasized that true peace could only be achieved through collective will. “The security apparatus can only do so much. True peace comes when the people themselves desire it,” he said.
“When it comes to literature, it shows that people—youth and senior citizens alike—are gravitating toward books and intellectual pursuits. This could well be the final step toward a sense of normalcy in the region,” said Lt. Gen. Pandey.
He reiterated his faith in the region’s potential to overcome challenges and achieve prosperity. “The future is extraordinarily bright. A pluralistic society, where people of various backgrounds live together harmoniously, is what we need. By fostering a peaceful environment, Kashmir can aspire to live as any individual across the world does—a life of progress, stability, and dignity,” he said.
