| The year 1999 saw a renewed outbreak of organised violence in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. In May, the Pakistani Army invaded the Kargil region and precipitated a limited war with India. In the closing days of that year, suspected Pakistani terrorists hijacked an Indian Airlines plane to secure the release of three jailed terrorists. Pakistan's new ruler, General Musharraf vowed that the struggle for Kashmir would continue. In the Valley, militants stepped up their attacks on the Indian security forces. My Valley would never be the same. Many of us still hoped for an indepedent state. But many others, including some of our leaders, were busy making money and buying expensive houses in Delhi. In all, Kashmir looks likely to explode in 2000. Which way we go will depend on factors outside the Valley. In the meanwhile, we will keep bringing you the news - straight from the media - everyday. | |
