Srinagar, July 21 -- Irshad Mushtaq

A child is not a file, not a weapon, not a bargaining tool and not a shield for adult ego. A child is a trust. A child is the future of the family, society and Kashmir. When parents forget this truth, the highest cost is not paid by the father or mother. The highest cost is paid by the child.In many homes, one parent may spend years carrying the child's schooling, fees, emotional care, transport, homework, teacher communication, medical care and daily routine. Then, suddenly, when conflict begins, the other parent may appear before society and try to show responsibility without having carried that responsibility for years. Sometimes the child is used to control the other parent. Sometimes school, custo...