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.
Women’s Role in the Society at a Time When Violence Against Women Continues
Shafiq reports on an interesting meeting held among women in Gulmarg recently. However, the reality of violence against women looms large as described in an editorial in the Rising Kashmir (two reports)(Mr. Shafiq Mir, 38, was born in Rajouri district. He received his...
“Kashmir’s Problem is not Poverty but Poor Human Development”
Arjimand, a rare intellectual among Kashmir's commentators, discusses the politics of poverty(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, was born in Srinagar. He is a columnist/writer and a development professional who matriculated from Tyndale Biscoe Memorial School in 1991. He...
Sufiana Taste
Iqbal pitches for the local folk music(Mr. Iqbal Ahmad, 49, was born in Parigam Chek, Kulgam. He is a graduate with Diploma in Numismatics, Archaeology and Heritage. He is an archaeologist, writer, and a cultural historian. He is employed by the Jammu and Kashmir...
Kashmir – The Regional “Superpower”
Ashraf has conducted scholarly research to come to a startling conclusion(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...
A Social Hubris
Tajamul says it is time to fold-up the custom of Wazwan, especially in the marriage season. Others agree (two reports)(Mr. Tajamul Hussain, 54, was born in Srinagar. He went to the Government Higher Secondary School in Nawakadal, Srinagar, and the S.P. College,...
Hard Work Over Sycophancy?
Finally, the Indian economic tiger is beginning to roam in the valley. Introducing a new style Kashmiri entrepreneur named Abdul Hamid BhatIn Kashmir, Entrepreneurs and Educators Preach Optimism and Self-RelianceDropping out of high school may have been Abdul Hamid...
Closing the Loophole
The Chief Information Commissioner (CIC) reacts to Muzaffar's complaint(Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, 36, was born in Wathoora village in the Budgam district and matriculated from Tyndale Biscoe Memorial High School in 1993. He completed his Bachelor's degree in Dental...
Drug Addiction in Kashmir
Zubair grapples with a burning social issue in the valley(Mr. Mir Zubair Rashid is a Counselor, PRC, University of Kashmir, and member CAUSE (Concerned About Universal Social Empowerment), a professional social workers group working for drug free Jammu and...
Drug Policy Falls Short
Dr. Ishaq points shortcomings in the 2009 draft (Dr. Geer Mohammad Ishaq teaches at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, and has written this article on behalf of Civil Society Forum that has been pressing for effective implementation of a...
J&K Census 2011
Population zooms up by 23% in the last decade. Two reports on the Census figuresJ&K’s population reaches 1,25,48,926Srinagar: Informing about the population trends in rural and urban areas of Jammu and Kashmir, second part of the Census 2011 is indicative of...