New Delhi, Oct. 17 -- The government, on Monday, partly lifted the ban on mobile phones in Kashmir. This sparked the revival of instant communication, bringing forth both heartwarming and heartbreaking stories of how individuals, families, couples, reconnected with each other after 70 days. It also will pave the way for emergency communication, including reaching out to hospitals and ambulances. The same night, a terrorist killed a truck driver from Rajasthan at Shopian as he was loading apples. Last month, terrorists had attacked the family of an apple trader; and in August, they had shot a shopkeeper who had opened his shop. These incidents sum up the precarious situation in Kashmir. This newspaper has consistently argued for the lifting of restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir, the opening up of the Internet, and the release of mainstream democratic leaders. These are essential to restart the process of political engagement in the Valley, end the difficulties of citizens, and would also be in tune with India's own democratic record and international image. The Centre must also allow peaceful protests for this is a democratic avenue of articulating grievances. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court asked the government to place on record the reasons for the shutdown and detentions. This, too, is a necessary corrective step....