As political parties in the Valley, cutting across the separatist-mainstream divide, welcomed Barack Obama’s victory in the US presidential elections, a group of Kashmiri students took out a rally and lit candles in celebration. For separatists, Obama's recent statements have come as "hope” and a “departure from the current US policy of non-engagement in Kashmir”.

The response of the mainstream parties has been extremely warm. “Anything he (Obama) can do to facilitate a resolution of this (Kashmir) issue between the two countries is welcome,” said National Conference president Omar Abdullah. “We also believe that as long as he (Obama) works to facilitate a resolution without taking sides, its beneficiary will be the people of Jammu and Kashmir”.

Abdullah, however, said India will not tolerate mediation, but facilitation is always welcome. “Obama will need to recognise that both the countries have to do it together and there is a need to respect the sentiments of both sides. That alone will help us move ahead towards a resolution”.

Peoples Democratic Party patron and former chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said Obama's victory would have far-reaching and positive global ramifications. “It is a mindboggling change. He (Obama) is an immigrant, African-American and his father was Muslim. The American people have accepted him as their leader and it is perhaps the biggest ever move towards reconciliation in the world,” he said.

“Obama’s victory has come as a good omen as India and Pakistan are already working on a solution of this (Kashmir) issue,” said Sayeed.

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