Sir — This refers to the article, “Beginning of a new kind of politics” (February 26) by Hari Om. The emergence of the BJP as a force to reckon with in Jammu and the party’s alliance with the PDP, which has divergent views on many crucial areas, is a maturing of politics, keeping in mind the best interests of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Despite threats of violence, the people of Jammu & Kashmir participated in the electoral process. This was a slap on the face of those calling for the State’s secession from India. The BJP’s rise in the State also breaks the hegemony of the two parties under whose watch Kashmiri Pandits were chased out of their homes.
As for the PDP, it will soon realise that Army, with its special powers, is a necessity in the valley if one is to capitalise on the gains of this political victory. On the other hand, the BJP can go easy on the Article 370 issue for the time being. Winds of change are blowing. Politicians from both parties must now concentrate on development issues.