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.
Kashmiri Women Take to Streets
Human Effort for Love and Peace (HELP) Foundation and the Women Against Violence (WAV) take the initiative - Four ReportsCrime against women on riseSrinagar: Expressing concern over the rise in the crime rate, many women on Monday staged a protest demonstration at...
Protecting Children in Today’s Society
Ghulam Nabi Khan speaks for allSave Children, Save FutureFor the last 19 years state of J&K is passing through political turmoil. Such internal conflicts have a shocking impact upon civilian population, most particularly women and children. We have presently more...
Death of Innocence
Shuhab sees in young and innocent Romana's death a falling apart of the Kashmiri social fabric aggrevated by stunning silence among so-called moralists(Shuhab Hashmi, 39, was born in Baramulla, and graduated from the Degree College in Sopore, and completed his M.A....
Stagination in Kashmir’s Sericulture Sector Means Opportunities Elsewhere
Jammu produces 3 times more cocoons Kashmir’s monopoly in silk is historySrinagar: Kashmir’s monopoly in silk production is history as Jammu has surpassed sericulture growth over the last twenty years. Silk production in Kashmir has reached lowest levels while at the...
Strikes Cause Havoc to Kashmir’s Economy
Why are people taking it lying down?Valley transporters lose Rs 30 lakh every strike, curfew daySrinagar: With strikes and undeclared curfews becoming more prevalent, Kashmir’s transport sector is feeling the pinch. Around 1500 commercial mini buses that ply within...
Private Industry Leads the Way
Government does not have answers to all problems. Afsana cites an experience where private sector is safeguarding the food chain while delivering new jobs(Ms. Afsana Rasheed, 29, was born and raised in Srinagar and attended the Minto Circle High School. She graduated...
Barrier Free Voting for the Physically Challenged Voters
Javed sends a letter to the State Election Commissioner on behalf of disabled citizens of the State(Mr. Javed Ahmad Tak, 35, was born in Bijbehara in the Anantnag district. He received his schooling from Government schools in Bijbehara, and his B.Sc. degree from the...
Vandalizing Heritage
Parihaspora locals allege complicity of Tehsildar and police; blame administration for inaction 7th century Buddhist structures facing destructionSrinagar: It’s not only official neglect but official complicity too that has brought the seventh century Buddhist...
The Wonders of Mud Construction in Kashmir
Ather describes a marvel called mud(Syed Ather Qayoom Rufia, 27, was born in Srinagar, and received his initial schooling from the Tyndale Biscoe Memorial School, Srinagar, and Jamia Milia Islamia, New Delhi. He graduated as an Architect from the Rizvi College of...
New CM, Old Culture
Fighting Corruption takes a back seat in the new AdministrationSAC existing only on properSyed Junaid Hashmi (Kashmir Times)Jammu: Finally, the much hyped State Accountability Commission (SAC) has been rendered obsolete by inept and callous attitude of the state...