Simultaneously ensuring that the Indian army is kept out of scene and discredited to the extent feasible by non-lethal means, viz, human right violations and other cases which causes embarrassment for the army and finally use the Friday prayers to discredit the government, the media by highlighting the weaknesses of the government and so called atrocities of the security forces. Surprisingly the locals believe it in spite of the fact to the contrary. It has now become a set game-- shades of street protest to be timed with the most emotive event/having a potential to further emotionally divide the fractured state.

After some action by the state which results in aggravating the issue, the centre steps in with same lotion – packages, appeals for calm, visits and interaction and the crisis temporarily taken care off. Everyone claims victory and wait the next cycle to commence and go through in the similar manner. We are wishing for a different outcome from the same – it is not possible even in a lab. If you wish a separate outcome please change the process. What is the problem in J&K today—it is a trust disconnect between the nation and the masses. The situation created has been hijacked by our friends from across the border through its cronies. Low quality of local polity has aggravated the credibility of leadership and electorate compulsion to be with masses forces a different stance on issues.

Is there a solution? Of course, there is.

The solution lies in combating the forces of discord through the three prolonged strategies, with the terminal aim of reducing the trust disconnect. First and foremost is the battle for the minds, known under different names, viz, perception management/information warfare/smart power/ soft power -- whatever you call it use it. Unless this is effective nothing else matters. Security and governance need to progress simultaneously, security for the people by the people and visible, credible and measurable governance addressing the needs of masses.