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.
Crossing the Line of Control set by the Delhi Durbar
Mehmood provides a one-sided perspective on the emergence of the National Conference-Congress Alliance. But in the end an elected government is only as good as its people.(Mr. Mehmood-ur-Rashid, mid-30's, lives and works in Srinagar. His commentary is published by the...
Civic Sense or Lack of it
Two articles in the Kashmir Images address two characteristic civic deficiencies - one urban, one rural - requiring new investment and educationFatalities on roads Roads in Kashmir valley are turning into death traps with fatal road accidents showing dangerously...
Preserving State’s Wetlands
Basharat describes a new initiative from the Department of Wildlife(Mr. Syed Basharat, 28, 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...
Looking to a Bright Future
Sajjad speaks with optimism but neglects to address responsibilies - of people who want an end to misery while keeping anarchy alive, and of neighbors who refuse to shut down terrorist infrastructure(Mr. Sajjad Bazaz, 44, was born in Srinagar. He attended the Khalsa...
Cannot do With it and Cannot do Without it
Mehmood rationalizes why separatists should keep doing what they are good at(Mr. Mehmood-ur-Rashid, mid-30's, lives and works in Srinagar. His commentary is published by the Rising Kashmir.)Glib generalisation, daunting detailBoycott-camp turned very uneasy when...
“Kashmiris are Gods because only God can be Unpredictable”
Riyaz brings a reality check to the election process and finds Kashmiris are no closer to being masters of their destiny now than they were in the past(Mr. Riyaz Masroor, 36, was born and raised in Srinagar. He is a Srinagar based journalist who writes in English,...
Pointing Fingers the Wrong Way
An Editorial in the Greater Kashmir laments about the vanishing beauty of Srinagar, but conveniently forgets its own role in nurturing misplaced priorities within Kashmir's Civil SocietyVenice of AsiaDuring the campaigning for the recent elections, the leaders of...
Creating Prosperity While Beating Drums of Anarchy
Ashraf has some good advice for Kashmir's political leadership. But by ignoring the role of the civil society in shaping Kashmir's prosperity, he is missing the big picture(Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, 65, was born and raised in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. High School and...
Political Dichotomy: Mature Public Led by Immature Leadership
Shafi addresses intricacies of the Kashmir elections while questioning the maturity and wisdom of so-called leaders who have closed their eyes and ears to events taking place in their neighborhood and beyond(Mr. Shafi A Athar, 54, was born in Khrew and completed his...
Where There is Easy Money, There is Easy Exploitation
Musavirr describes challenges in a state with the highest private schooling per capita, and yet very few students from the valley have been selected for IIT, IIM admissions(Mr. Musavirr Wani, 27, was born in Srinagar and attened the Burn Hall School. He graduated from...