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.
Developing Manasbal as a Tourist Attraction
A native to the area describes the beauty of the place and his mixed feelings towards its future(Mr. Shyam Kaul, 76, was born in Safapur, near Lake Manasbal, in the Gandarbal District. He did his schooling in the local area (then part of Baramulla District) and his...
Legal Instruments Exist to Curb Domestic Violence in J&K
Rifat says that there is a legal mechanism to fight the social menace(Ms. Rifat Kawoosa, 31, was born in Srinagar. She went to the Presentation Convent High School in Srinagar, and received her Bachelor's degree from the Government College for Women in Srinagar. Mrs....
Srinagar Stinks on the World Environment Day While Tourists Find an Alternative
The filth and garbage upsets both natives and tourists and visitors discover an alternative to the valley (three reports)Plight of river Jehlum no different in BaramullaSrinagar/Baramulla: The Srinagar city remained virtually buried under huge piles of garbage and...
Kashmir Through the Eyes of a Young Expatriate
Noor shares her views about Kashmir which she visits with increasing frequency. She can be excused for getting her politics mixed-up, but there are no two ways about her feelings towards Kashmir(Ms. Noor Shah Mubarak, 20, comes from a family who lived in Srinagar,...
Kashmir – The Land of Hartals
Zulfikar wonders why people fail to realize that there can be no nation building if people are not productive. He is not alone, an editorial in a competing daily in Srinagar says the same. Two related stories(Mr. Zulfikar Majid, 31, was born in Srinagar. He...
Exercising the Rule of Law in Moments of Great Emotion
Tanvir says democracy means letting the law run its course(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 youngest Municipal...
Gender Politics or Criminal Assault, Either Way Shopian Murders are a Tragedy
Nida touches the raw nerve on an issue that has gripped the valley (Ms. Nida Rafiq Shiekh, 22, was born in Srinagar. She passed her Matriculation from the Presentation Convent High School and completed her 12th grade from the Mallinson Girls High School, both with...
Medical Care in Kashmir is a Disgrace
Bone and Joint Hospital suffers from inadequate facilities, poor sanitation and insufficient resources common to all hospitals in SrinagarBone & Joints Hospital suffers due to lack of referral systemSamaan Lateef (Greater Kashmir)Srinagar: The lack of referral...
Greater Kashmir Agrees That Separatist Leadership is out of Touch With Consequences of Unending Strikes
The editorial in the Greater Kashmir takes off from where the Rising Kashmir editorial left offRethink neededKashmiris are once again at the cross roads of history. Once again they have been pushed to a situation from which they don’t know how to wriggle out. No where...
Shining Light in a Valley of Smoke and Mirrors
Finally an Editorial in the Rising Kashmir with a bit of common sense and a whole lot of truth!Hartal won’t doAPHC’s strike calls are never turned down, now is the time to review the old tool of resistanceChairman of one of the factions of Hurriyat Conference Syed Ali...