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.
The Word is out: Drug Abuse is on the Rise in Kashmir
Drug cartels using JK as transit point Syed Salman Jammu, March 28: Drug abuse has acquired serious dimensions in the state of Jammu and Kashmir in the recent times. The number of drug addicts has increased alarmingly, with drug cartel operating from other countries...
A Timely Editorial in a Kashmir Daily Advising Youth to Look Beyond Government Jobs
The Rising Kashmir advises protesting youth seeking government jobs to look for other opportunitiesOpportunities galoreIt needs a will to look beyond Government jobsThe energies, and of late some of the innovative methods, that go into the protests of unemployed youth...
Hoping Against Hope: Why is J&K Government Denying Minority Status to Kashmiri Pandits?
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) has pleaded on behalf of the Pandit minority since 1999 with little results Minority panel constitution awaits CM’s nod GK NEWS SERVICE Srinagar, Mar 23: There is good news for minorities in Jammu and Kashmir. Now, the...
A Wise Elder Reflects on Sinking Moral Values of the Kashmiri Society
"We have nothing to offer except hartals"Poorest people with lots of moneyMohammad Muneer BhatLong ago our part of the world had the distinction of being home to people who took pride in calling it peer waer and resh waer. The abode of legendary saints, seers,...
The Beauty and the Beast: When the Official Forest Conservator Turns out to be its Destroyer
Timber Smugglers set Khrew forests on fire Locals Allege Nexus With Officials, Police ARIF SHAFI WANI Khrew (Pulwama), Mar 26: A major fire has engulfed the forests of the Khrew Wildlife Conservation Reserve during the past three days here destroying many trees and...
A Dream Come True: Srinagar Basks in the Glory of Tulips and Almond Blossoms
Srinagar is mending environmental damage by reclaiming past glory and creating new vistasBadam Wa’er blooms againSrinagar, Mar 25: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today presented a matchless gift to the people of Srinagar when he dedicated to them a redeveloped Badam...
Valley Pandits have Unique Funeral Rites, but a Helping Hand From a Neighbour is Always Welcome
Muzaffar Raina discusses how Kashmiri neigbours look after each other even when one is no more, and about a dying profession that is bringing out the best among KashmirisMuslim takes care of Kashmir’s dead HindusSrinagar, March 24: In a burning ground in the Valley,...
Jammu Province Scores With World Class Smart Girls; Valley Parents and Students, Please Take Notice!
Shivani Sud and Naqsh Haider show what it means to be "world class" in intellect and dedication. Both have roots in the Jammu Province Junior Nobel for Jammu girl, Shivani Sud in US A girl of Indian origin created history after she won the prestigious talent contest...
Libraries in Kashmir are a Disgrace
Srinagar city’s central library lacks basic facilities Umi Salma ReshiThe City’s Central library at Karan Nagar, considered to be an intellectual power house, is lacking basic facilities.There are no proper seating arrangements in the library and the people visiting...
God Save my Land!
Kashmir has many challenges - here are two on eradicating corruption and preserving heritage God save my land! Imtiyaz Ahmad (Rising Kashmir) Kashmir may be known throughout the world as paradise on earth but the question is how it turned to a wasteland: a land devoid...