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.
Fissures in Kashmir’s Pluralism
Is Sajjad on a roll harping on perceived injustices meted to a hegemonic religious majority or is it another example of regional imbalances in Jammu and Kashmir?(Mr. Sajjad Bazaz, 45, was born in Srinagar. He attended the Khalsa high school and the Sri Pratap College...
Who Will Teach Youth the Proud and Noble History of Kashmir?
An Editorial in the Kashmir Images highlights a great injustice being done to childrenIntrospection NeededKashmir seems in for some difficult times as the graph of crime is going up and the youth of valley are behaving abnormally. It is not a normal sign when a whole...
Hillary, Pheran and Nigeen
Ashraf asks an interesting question: Will the Pheran Diplomacy Lead to Clean Waters? (The background article follows Ashraf's commentary.)(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...
Frequent Shutdowns Zap Economic Vitality
Frequent hartal calls by separatists take their toll on Kashmir's economy4000 shutdowns since '89 cost Kashmir Rs 60,000 croreSrinagar: A recent survey undertaken by some media agencies has revealed that the economy of the Kashmir Valley has suffered a loss of Rs...
A Disgraceful Act
Granted that Tanvir is a party faithful, but in this case he has a valid point(Mr. Tanvir Sadiq, 31, was born in Srinagar and attended the Burn Hall School. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Information technology and management from Orissa University. He is the...
The Garden of Wealth
Kashmir's history comes alive with an archaeological find Ancient Sculpture of Goddess Lakshmi Found Ehsan Fazili (Tribune News Service)Srinagar: A magnificent stone sculpture of Goddess Gaja Lakshmi has been discovered from an ancient spring at Nagabal Lesser village...
A Journey of Sufferings and Inconveniences
Nadeem shares what it means to take a bus in the valley(Mr. Nadeem Jahangir Bhat, 27, was born in Rakhi-Lajurah village in Pulwama district. He received his early education in a local private school and graduated from the Government Degree College in Pulwama. He...
Ayurvedic Medicines in Kashmir
Kalhan may have been the first to record it in the 12th Century but medicinal plants have a long history in KashmirMEDICINAL PLANTS OF KASHMIRYasar Muhammad Baba (Rising Kashmir)The Valley of Kashmir known for its beauty all over the world is also rich in herbal and...
Politics of Self Destruction
Bukhari on the media circus that is a way of life among politicians of all shades in Kashmir(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 daily, Rising Kashmir, and...
A Paradise No More
Muzaffar uses an unusual backdrop to convey a deeply disturbing message of changes in Kashmir's social fabric that, left uncorrected, will leave an indelible scar on the society(Mr. Muzaffar Khadim, 59, was born in Srinagar. He did his early schooling in Srinagar and...