Conflict seems to break out in Kashmir on a weekly basis. The increase in anti-India protests shows that the Indian military is losing control of the situation. I am surprised that only one civilian was
killed because the large number of people protesting created a high risk level. I am sure that the decision to cut internet access only further embittered the rebels and civilians. This incident only worsened India’s image among the inhabitants of Kashmir. At this point, India has to tread very carefully and cautiously if they want to maintain their authority of Kashmir. There seems to be very little they can do that would win back the people of Kashmir—so far at least 68,000 people have been killed. Their interests seem too diametrically opposed to find a common ground. For India, relinquishing control of Kashmir would give too much power to Pakistan and would hurt their influence in the region. For the people, their patience is reaching a tipping point and the only way to have a stable and safe life is to either be recognized as independent or join Pakistan. The situation is also dire for the multitudes of people who have become blind; they now face economic hardship and difficulty relearning how to do ordinary tasks.
