Chapter 16:  Alternatives

In this chapter, Haleema and her lawyer, Advocate Farooq, are at the court awaiting the outcome of a long inquiry into the fate of their missing relatives. The chapter opens with Haleema's anticipation as Colonel Ajit Kumar, representing the army, arrives at the court. The colonel, accompanied by armed guards, meets with Farooq and Haleema in the court lobby. During their conversation, the colonel discusses the concept of ‘peace’ and ‘pacification,’ which Farooq critiques as inadequate substitutes for justice. The colonel offers a monetary settlement of two lakhs, suggesting it as a way to address Haleema's suffering. He advises against delving into the past, asserting that it will not bring any resolution. Haleema rejects the colonel’s offer, stating that money cannot alleviate her pain or provide answers about her missing son, Imran. She demands to know what happened to Imran and whether he is alive. The colonel, however, can only inform her that Major Aman Kushwaha, who was potentially involved in Imran’s case, has been killed in a border attack. Stunned and heartbroken by the news, Haleema is left feeling devastated and uncertain about Imran’s fate. She struggles to cope with the realization that her hope for answers is fading. Despite her grief, Haleema resolves to continue waiting and hoping for her son, finding strength to persist through her suffering.