will get to have a say in the destiny of the state. Because, Kashmir despite several constants about its situation is a changed place. Fading out of the gun from the scene has unleashed a new raw street energy across the Valley. Mob fury remains on hair trigger. And like sorcerer’s apprentice, once mobilized the mobs have been difficult to control.
This situation needs not only a better administrator but also a politician with a nuanced approach to the affairs of the state. With hopefully more than five years of rule still left for this government, it is time that Omar the politician shows up. Along with rejuvenation and of course, revitalization of its internal working, NC and of course the state also needs a new leader.
And finally, Omer would do well not to forget the deaths in Shopian. For, despite CBI ruling out rape and murder, the incident can easily come back to haunt his government. The deaths in public consciousness have long transcended their narrow criminal definition and come under an overarching political context of the valley. They have suddenly awakened a collective memory of the excesses that this place has been subjected to over the excruciating course of the past twenty years. And without the chief minister doing something really extra-ordinary – and credibly too – to satisfy the growing public concern, the crime is not only going to remain a rallying cry for the street but a reference point for the functioning of his government.
