New Delhi: When ‘nature' has its way, it respects no border or ceasefire lines; it treats them all equal.
The recent floods in India's Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) are a sheer example of nature's cruel call at par treating both countries equally.
This devastating deluge has caused serious damage to both sides of the border, killing hundreds & dislocating thousands from their homes and property.
Nature's supremacy over mankind has made the ongoing six and a half decade long battle between India and Pakistan over Kashmir look petty and childish. The (nature's) message is clear “I don't know the boundaries; I will destroy you if you destroy me”
Borders have not only divided the territory but also the people and the mindsets.
As a matter of fact, J&K was all ‘Geography'- the valleys, mountains and rivers, before the mankind's appearance.
Later it was carved with ‘borders' following invasion, after the 1947 Ind-Pak division. The state of Kashmir “heaven on Earth” has been a conflict zone and the war to undertake its administration is still going on.
The recent floods are not the first warning from nature; the 2005 Kashmir earthquake had also communicated a similar message to the governments of India and Pakistan, “Unite and come ahead to fight Nature's fury”.
Jammu and Kashmir, an ecologically sensitive and seismic state, needs the collaboration of both India and Pakistan in order to deal with natural calamities. It is an only way out to create a peaceful and harmonious environment in the state throughout.
Its reflection can be seen in recent diplomatic communications between Indian government and Pakistan government.
Indian Prime Minister Narender Modi, while evaluating the flood destruction in Jammu and Kashmir, had offered to help Pakistan in combating the flood situation in PoK, following with Pakistan's PM Nawaz Sharif conveying his gratitude for offering help in flood relief efforts.
However, saying anything at this point will be too much hurry. It is for the governments of India and Pakistan to decide if they can change their stand over Kashmir.
Till then, just think beyond the boundaries and pray for the flood victims of both India's Kashmir and Pakistan's Kashmir.
