Therefore, the question of giving up Kashmir is suicidal. I think both countries have not been presenting the true picture about the LoC. So the Indian decision to honour the LoC is a step in the right direction. Pakistan must understand that intrusion and infiltration will get them nowhere.

Traditionally, we don't have an `invader' mindset. We cannot go to war either. It is unfair on the part of any government to make so many people suffer. War has absolutely no redeeming factor. It is easy to stir peoples' emotions. But the real question is, why are people dyingin the cold of Kargil at the height of economic recession in both countries? It is absurd.

How can the Government just say that the intelligence failed and leave it at that? Why have successive governments pushed things under the carpet and wished the problem away?

The fact is, we are stuck with a troublesome neighbour and we need a more mature political vision to deal with him. Also, we have to avoid foreign intervention. We'll have to pay a heavy price if we fall back on support from the world community. The solution lies in dragging Pakistan to the table and getting them to honour the LoC.

(As told to Deepa Deosthalee)