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Without going into percentages thrown up by the poll, the verdict is clear on two issues. The State identity must be preserved at all costs and all those who advocate division on communal lines either out of their love for Pakistan or their desire to propagate the RSS ideology represent only a minuscule minority. The fact that the overwhelming majority still seeks the return of minorities like the Kashmiri Pandits who were forced to migrate by militants, further strengthens the view that Kashmiris remain true to their Sufi traditions and years of turmoil and bloodshed in clashes between the security forces and militants, have not changed it.

Yet more evidence has been thrown up; that is the desire among the people to retain their unique personality. In this context, the need for opening up trade and travel facilities between the part of the State in India and Pak-held territory, the need for greater autonomy and establishment of a joint forum where representatives of the two sides could sit together to resolve their problems, are some interesting suggestions. For instance, it is not well known that in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, 25 seats have been reserved for representatives of the State living in the area under occupation by Pakistan. Moreover, the leaders from the two sides have repeatedly expressed a desire for unity and the movement for an independent State is probably as strong in Pak-held Kashmir as it is on the Indian side.

As for the area under Pakistani occupation, a start can be made by having soft borders and close co-operation. But such a scenario requires that proxy war or terrorism must stop. Once peace has returned to the Valley, holding of free elections should not be difficult. Such a poll can be certified by independent observers and men of integrity who enjoy the confidence of all and by giving free access to the international media. Such a solution can also find international favour as world opinion has decisively turned against terrorism or force being used to make territorial gains. India in its own interest needs to open new doors for understanding the Kashmiri ethos and winning the confidence of the masses. In this context, some important steps have been taken and fresh winds have started blowing. These steps, however, have received a setback because of the rising border tension, massing of troops and assassination of Abdul Gani Lone.