The writer is taking a far-fetched view by saying that the rest of India has never integrated itself with Kashmir (“The idea of India is failing,” Aug. 19). Appreciating the beauty of a State or visiting it during holidays by itself does not reduce its value in people’s eyes. Rather, it is the provisions of Article 370, which do not carry the same meaning as special status given to other States like Mizoram and Nagaland, that kept J&K and its citizens aloof from the rest of India. Simply because these provisions were necessary at the time of J&K’s accession to India does not mean that they hold relevance and use even after 72 years of Independence of the country.
Damini Mehta,
New Delhi
