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.
Emphasizing Quality of Governance in an Era of Financial Benevolence
The editorial in the Kashmir Images emphasises that money alone is not enoughUnderstand People’s ProblemsCouple of weeks back, in a private discussion a group of young Kashmiris while sharing their mind on the issue of governance, said: “We face lots of problems and...
“Mumbai of North”
Proof that wealth among Srinagarites is resulting in some undesirable consequencesSrinagar Turns Into Beggars’ CapitalShahnawaz Majid (Kashmir Images)Srinagar: Srinagar city is fast turning into the ‘capital of beggars’ as professional mendicants from different parts...
The State of Chaos
Why is it that the J&K Government is willing to hand over financial gifts to militants returning back home from Pakistan, but unwilling to help its less fortunate citizens. Whether it is Pandits or physically challenged youth, the State wants Delhi to pay up for...
Saving the Dal Lake
A different perspective on Dal from the Lakes and Waterways Developmental Authority (LAWDA)Is Dal Really Dying?Srinagar: Irfan Yaseen remembers the mid 90s when the Dal Lake was barely alive; being eaten and without a future. “The psyche here is that we hold no...
“Official – Land/Timber Mafia Nexus”
A starkly revealing news about corruption in the Kashmir valleyIllegal Constructions Galore in Pahalgam Vicinity; Authorities in SlumberPahalgam: With High Court imposing ban on constructions in this tourist resort following the Public Interest Litigation by Peoples...
Fearful as Terrorism
Naveed says that corruption in Kashmir is not merely a disease, it is an outright form of tyranny(Mr. Naveed Qazi, 22, did his schooling from Burn Hall School and Tyndale Biscoe, and eventually graduated in Commerce from the University of Kashmir. Naveed is a blogger...
Divided People, Common Suffering
Wajid sees a pattern of near identical fate on both sides of the Line of Control (LOC)(Sardar Wajid Ali, 27, was born in Dothan, Poonch district in Pakistan administered Kashmir. He was educated at the Government Boys College, Dothan. He completed his F.Sc....
Non-Political Panchayat Elections Turn Highly Political
Ranbir is amazed at how mainstream political parties are locked in a bitter tug-of-war over ‘branding’ and ‘parading’ of newly-elected sarpanches and panches before the media(Mr. Ranbir Singh Pathania, 31, was born in born in Jammu city. He did his early schooling...
Manzoor’s Story
The desperation expressed by Manzoor is the story of many young people in Kashmir facing an uncertain future. Manzoor's story is followed by an editorial on tackling employment(Mr. Manzoor Akash, 25, was born in Rafiabad, Baramulla district. He completed his schooling...
Children’s Hospital in Srinagar is a Disgrace
The G B Pant hospital for children is suffering the same fate as the Lal Ded Hospital for Women. ‘Children Hospital as Good as a Railway Station’Srinagar: G B Pant hospital, the only children hospital of Kashmir is ‘as good as a railway station’ according to a mother...