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.
To Hosni Mubaraks, Ben Alis and Gaddafis in Kashmir
Junaid says that both separatist and mainstream politicians in Kashmir have enjoyed an atmosphere of mass impunity and lack of accountability by exploiting public (Mr. Junaid Azim Mattu, 25, was born in Srinagar. He partly completed his schooling at the Burn Hall...
Where the Jobs Are
Sajad proposes that young people should stop looking for sarkari jobs. This fact is borne by the Rangarajan Panel report, which recommends providing funds to create non-government jobs(Mr. Sajjad Bazaz, 45, was born in Srinagar. He attended the Khalsa high school and...
Doctors Under Scanner
Arjimand addresses the recent government intervention in curbing government hired doctors from engaging in a conflict-of-interest by pursuing private practice, and an editorial in the Rising Kashmir provides a word of caution(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, was born...
Coming of Age
From environment to politics - editorials in the Rising Kashmir show a new and exciting level of maturityKashmir’s PlunderIn a bid to check the encroachment in Pahalgam, the High Court Monday directed the state fovernment to file an affidavit giving full particulars...
Missing Civil Society
Daya Sagar laments at half-hearted measures taken by the J&K government to root out corruption. Lack of a strong civil society only makes the situation worse(Mr. Daya Sagar, 65+, was born in Udampur. He completed his schooling from SRML Higher secondary School in...
Salute to Women
Basharat's well deserved award is a recognition for his writing skills to highlight the plight of the weaker sections of Kashmiri society(Mr. Syed Basharat, 30, was born in Kreeri, Baramulla, and did his schooling in Kreeri, and later in Uri and Sopore. He graduated...
Kashmir’s Literary Revival
Arjimand notes the success of three new books in English by Kashmiri writers and feels something to cheer about(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, was born in Srinagar. He is a columnist/writer and a development professional who matriculated from Tyndale Biscoe Memorial...
Kashmir’s Plunder
The Rising Kashmir editorial asks the government to review laws and make them more stringent to safeguard Valley’s natural resources for future generations.Kashmir’s PlunderIn a bid to check the encroachment in Pahalgam, the High Court Monday directed the state...
Scandalous Loss of Power
Rashid says distribution loss in electricity generation is putting a huge burden ion the exchequer. An investigative report(Mr. Rashid Paul, 40, was born at Ompora, near Budgam. He has a master's degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from the University of...
All Politics is Local
Shiban argues that self reliance is the first step to real autonomy(Mr. Shiban Dudha, 50, was born in Srinagar. He went to government schools in Chandilora (Tangmarg) and Srinagar, and matriculated from the D.A.V. High School in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. College,...