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.
Jhelum Valley Civilization
Ashraf's interpretation of Kashmir's ancient history (Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Fazili, 68, was born in Srinagar. He received his early schooling from the Government Middle School, Nowhatta, Srinagar, and from M.P. High School, Baghi Dilawar Khan in Srinagar. Mr. Fazili...
The Land Across Zojila
Javed addresses some of the hardships faced by people living in Kargil (Mr. Javed Naqi, 29, was born in Kargil, Ladakh. He did his schooling from Suru Valley Public School, Kargil. Javed earned a B.Sc. in General Science and a M.Sc. in Zoology (Parasitology) from...
Where Corruption is a Way of Life
Shafi addresses some critical issues pertaining to the State Vigilance Commission (SVC) (Mr. Shafi A. Athar, 54, was born in Khrew and completed his high school education at the Government High School in Khrew. He graduated from the Sri Pratap College Srinagar, and...
The Return
Adfar reminisces regarding the return of Kashmir's indigenous people - Pandits on the International Migrants Day The Political Sociology of Pandit Return (Mr. Syed Adfar Rashid Shah, 28, was born in Watlar, Ganderbal. He did his basic schooling at the Government High...
Lal Ded Heritage Center
Another feather in the cap of Saleem (Mr. Mohammad Saleem Beg, 60, 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 awarded a EEC fellowship in 1998 which...
Tourism is a Viable Career Option in Kashmir
Rauf is interviewed by the Kashmir Images (Mr. Rauf Tramboo, 53, was born and raised in Srinagar. He completed his school education at the Islamia High School located at Rajori Kadal, and his college degrees - B.Com. and LLB (Hons.) - from Islamia College of Science...
What a Shame
Kashmir loses its cultural heritage to bollywood glitz Bhand Pather, Wanwun, Nendi Ba’eth are now things of past Mukhtar Ahmad (Kashmir Images) Srinagar: Once a fad thing in the valley, the traditional folk songs have become a thing of the past as the arrival of...
“Go South, Young Man”
Kashmiri youth look for greener pastures, but not without some degree of trepidation 1,000 Youths Get Jobs Outside Valley Bashaarat Masood (Indian Express) Srinagar For more than a thousand youth, this is a dream opportunity to showcase their talent in the corporate...
The Unsaid Truth
The Chief Minister comments on the lack of electric power in the valley. Power is purchased at great cost from the Northern Grid since Kashmiris mostly "steal the juice" OMAR TWEETS… Monday, 02 01 2012 09:38 * Extent of loss in metered areas is much higher than...
Sun City
Ashraf recalls the origins of the great ancient city named Srinagar (Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Fazili, 68, was born in Srinagar. He received his early schooling from the Government Middle School, Nowhatta, Srinagar, and from M.P. High School, Baghi Dilawar Khan in Srinagar....