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.
Is Saffron Production Droping due to Government Apathy or Climate Change?
It is both, say expertsGovt neglect shrinking saffron fields, declining productivityPampore: Saffronologists in Kashmir blame the decline in saffron production in the Valley on government’s neglect and absence of technological interventions. On the contrary saffron...
Kashmir’s Roads are a Disgrace
Shoddy construction combined with rampant corruption are turning roads into a messDilapidated roads deflate govt claims Gowhar Bhat (Greater Kashmir)Srinagar: Dilapidated city roads have deflated the tall claims of the government about spending crores of rupees on...
Meaning of Azadi in a Land of Indulgence
Firdous examines the empty half of the glass(Mr. Firdous Syed, 43, was born in Bhaderwah, Doda, and had his schooling in Jammu. He is currently the Chairman of the "Kashmir Foundation for Peace and Development Studies," and associated with the J&K National...
A Victim of the Urban-Rural Divide
Musavirr describes the tragedy of being born poor and helpless in the valley(Mr. Musavirr Wani, 28, was born in Srinagar and attened the Burn Hall School. He graduated from the Meerut University and joined the Kashmir Times as a reporter. Loves driving his car and...
Camping for Peace
Nadia writes about her unique experiences at a camp in Abu Dhabi(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...
God Helps Those (Especially) Who Help Themselves
Faisal says fate does not mean that one does nothing and we leave all to God(Dr. Shah Faisal, 26, was born in Sogam village of District Kupwara. He studied at his village schools until the 10th grade and then transferred to the Tyndale Biscoe School Srinagar. Through...
The Most Endangered Heritage of Kashmir
Saleem laments how Kashmir's glorious colonial architecture is fast disappearing(Mr. Mohammad Saleem Beg, 58, was born and raised in Srinagar. He was educated at the S.P. College and the Gandhi Memorial College, receiving his Bachelor's degree from the latter. He was...
Announcing New Schools Without Plans to Build Schools is all too Common in Kashmir
Basharat points to an irony that is all too frequent in Kashmir(Mr. Syed Basharat, 29, was born in Kreeri, Baramulla, and did his schooling in Kreeri, and later in Uri and Sopore. He graduated from the Degree College in Baramulla and completed his Master's degree in...
Even a Small Disruption is Sometimes Too Large to Overcome
Javaid believes wrong policies of the government towards fishermen have brought havoc to social fabric of this communityUprooting a CommunityJavaid RashidPygmalion, a Greek mythologist, was so enticed by a self-made woman-statute's beauty that he wished she could...
NHRC Penalizes Indian Army for Fake Encounter in J&K
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) earns public trust with its independent investigationNHRC raps Army for fake encounter, asks for compensationNew Delhi: Taking cognizance of Army excesses in an alleged fake encounter in Jammu and Kashmir, the National Human...