After 11 years of escalating violence, there is reason for hope in Kashmir. The largest Muslim separatist group declared a unilateral ceasefire late last month. The move was promptly reciprocated by the Indian Army, which announced the suspension of operations against that group. But prospects for talks are clouded by renewed violence on the part of guerrillas who oppose negotiations. They must not be allowed to block the first tentative steps toward peace in this troubled part of the world.
The breakthrough occurred July 24 when Hezb-ul Mujahedeen declared a three-month unilateral ceasefire. The announcement stunned the group's allies in the United Jihad Council, an umbrella organization of 14 militant groups fighting for Kashmir's independence from India. They promptly expelled the Hezb-ul Mujahedeen from the council and vowed to fight on.
That Hezb-ul Mujahedeen among all the guerrillas declared the ceasefire is important. It is the largest of the militant groups and, according to its leader, supplies 90 percent of the separatist forces. Unlike the other organizations, its fighters are indigenous Kashmiris, not imported mercenaries. That means the group is more sensitive to local sentiment and should be able to deliver a real peace agreement.