Spy cams to tackle braid-chopping fears

Due to the fear of braid-chopping incidents, Valley residents have started installing spy cameras around their homes. More than 50 braid-chopping cases have been reported so far with the latest incidents coming from Srinagar city. The police have failed to reach any conclusion about the incidents. If the government fails to take any action, these can create a large-scale fair psychosis in Kashmir. — Rifat Mohidin

A paltry reward!
The police recently announced Rs 6,00,000 reward for persons giving information/assistance in nabbing of suspects in braid-cutting incidents. The police also announced a cash prize of Rs 20,000 and a job in the department for a youth who won the Mr Kashmir-2017 Body Building Competition held in Srinagar last week. However, the police then just sanctioned a cash reward of Rs 3,000 each for its three personnel in Shopian district after they foiled a weapon-snatching bid at Panjer village on October 6. Pertinently, the cops were deployed for the security of the members of the minority community living in the village. — M Aamir Khan

Garbage in Omar’s backyard
It does not happen when in power, but only when politicians are out of power. It came as a surprise when a report came about the dumping of garbage in the backyard of former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Srinagar. The garbage — disseminating foul smell — had been dumped by helpers working in the adjoining government houses where many ministers are lodged. More surprising was the way it was cleared by those concerned in the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC). Some “influential” acquaintances in the corridors of power were approached to impress upon SMC officials to clear the garbage. Finally that worked and the garbage was lifted. — Ehsan Fazili

Sticking to roots
Even while living in exile displaced Kashmiri Hindus are making efforts to save their ancient religious tradition. Recently, a Samohik Yagnopavit ceremony, a Hindu ritual under which a sacred thread is worn by Brahmins, was organised by All State Kashmiri Pandit Conference (ASKPC). Its aim was to ensure that Pandit youth follow rituals and families do not have to bear much financial burden. Since the migration of 3.50 lakh Hindus from the Valley in 1990, the new generation seldom observes rigid religious customs. “Its aim was to make the youth aware about our traditions but also social integration and optimum utilisation of resources,” said TK Bhat, general secretary, ASKPC.