Introduction to KashmirForum.org Blog
Vijay K. Sazawal, Ph.D.
I launched the website and the Blog after undertaking a thorough search of literature dealing with Kashmir. Finding existing choices that varied from harsh zealotry as expressed by multiple political antagonists and religious bigots, I undertook multiple visits to the valley to make a first hand assessment of the situation as well as seek input from those on the ground – common people, civic and academic leaders of both genders, minorities, and bureaucrats both in Srinagar and New Delhi. After having spoken to government officials, political analysts and security experts specializing in South Asian affairs from three continents, it became clear to me that when Kashmiris are suffering and the world has its own set of prior-
-ities, we need to find ways to help each other. We must be realistic, go beyond polemics and demagoguery, and propose innovative ideas that will bring peace, justice and prosperity to all the peoples of Jammu and Kashmir. Above all, it is incomprehensive how violence can lead to any political closure or human justice when it simply impedes any healing, development or normalcy.
We encourage hearing from the disfranchised “silent majority” in Jammu and Kashmir. Please send your comments by contacting us. Thank you.
A Urban-Rural Divide
Two reports in the Rising Kashmir appear to bring out the chasm between city dwellers and villagers - while rich city folks are shunning "Bukharis" in favor of gas heaters and central heating systems, the sale of "Kangris" is at an all time high among poor...
From Sublime to the Ridiculous!
A hard core Islamist sweeps through the campus of the Kashmir University at the same time that a conference on the "composite cultures" is underway . While ignoring that travesty, the Conference demands a medium of IAS examinations in KashmiriSeminar on Kashmir...
Unrealized Expectations
Khayal's heart is in the right place, but it seems that his head is full of ideas still evolving. Otherwise, why would he equate terrorism with "discomfort?"(Mr. Ghulam Nabi Khayal, 70, was born in Srinagar. He received his schooling and college education in Srinagar,...
Every Kashmiri in a World of His Own
Ashraf believes that self-centric life style has taken on a new meaning in Kashmir (Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, 66, was born and raised in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. High School and the S.P College before joining the Regional Engineering College at Naseem Bagh in Civil...
The Quiet Diplomacy and Kashmir
Rashid's commentary on resolving the Kashmir dispute ‘quietly’(Dr. Rashid Para, 41, was born in Naira village in the Pulwama district. He did his childhood schooling in the local government run school in Tahab, and from the 6th grade attended the Sainik School in...
Tactically or Pragmatically, the Kashmir issue Cannot be Ignored
Bukhari affirms that final settlement of the Kashmir issue is integral to lasting peace between India and Pakistan(Syed Rafiuddin Bukhari, 72, was born in Kreri in Baramulla District. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the Kashmir Media Group that publishes the English...
Turning Scenary Lovers into Book Readers
But will the idea fly?Kashmir tourist places may soon have library pointsSofi Imtiyaz (Rising Kashmir)Ganderbal: Valley’s tourist places may soon be equipped with library facilities where domestic and foreign tourists can avail reading and other related facilities....
Pain and Anguish
Rashid adds his voice to those worried about Kashmir's worsening environmentWe and Our EnvironmentSyed Adfar Rashid Shah (Watlar, Ganderbal)One fine morning, I was on my way to Research Centre, on the way I came across a rally of school children shouting environment...
The Great Rip-Off
Yet another story of endemic corruption in the State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC)Rs 43 Cr CP Fund EmbezzledRashid Paul (Rising Kashmir)Srinagar: The contributory provident fund (CP) of employees of State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) amounting to Rs 43 crores...
Next Impending Crisis: Water Supply
State Government admits a lax attitude towards impending water crisisKashmir heading towards major water crisis, meters being installedSrinagar: People in Kashmir Valley will face major water crisis in near future as water level in all the rivers, including Jehlum and...