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.
Corruption Without Limits
Fayyaz describes how state administrators are planning the biggest land scam in the valley(Mr. Ahmed Ali Fayyaz, 48, was born in Bodina, Budgam, and received his primary and secondary education in Budgam and later at Amar Singh College, Srinagar. He completed his...
The Blind Leading the Lame
Nayeema notes that Kashmiris lack intellectual honesty and the intelligentsia has let themselves be bought by power(Ms. Nayeema Ahmad Mahjoor, 53, was born in Srinagar, Kashmir. She completed her B.Sc, B.Ed, LL.B (Hons) and Diploma in Jounalism, and Masters in...
The Public-Leadership “Trust Deficit”
Junaid says Hurriyat has put itself under the microscope(Mr. Junaid Azim Mattu, 25, was born in Srinagar. He partly completed his schooling at the Burn Hall School, Srinagar, and partly at the Bishop Cotton School, Shimla. He attended college in America and graduated...
When Silence is Not Golden But Criminal
Firdous vents his passion after listening to Hurriyat's recent public pronouncement(Mr. Firdous Syed, 44, was born in Bhaderwah, Doda, and had his schooling in Jammu. He is currently the Chairman of the "Kashmir Foundation for Peace and Development Studies," and...
Playing Politics With the Cultural Academey’s Autonomy
Kashmir Times report reinforce other sources that indicate that the Minister in charge of the JKAACL is at war with JKAACLDeptt of Culture 'fiddles' with JKAACLJammu: The growing ambition of State Department of Tourism and Culture to 'intrude' in the decision making...
Destruction Beyond Repair
Reshi says the beauty is goneThe Beauty and the Ugliness(J.H.Reshi is a lawyer practising in Srinagar)Almighty had bestowed us with a paradise called Kashmir. But alas it is being lost and destroyed beyond repair before our eyes. Once upon a time it was known for its...
A Rational Livestock Policy
Maroof argues for sheep farming that combines livestock farming with religious offerings to help financial stability of farmers(Dr. Muhammad Maroof Shah, 32, was born in Kunan, Bandipore. He has pursued a career in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry, completing...
The Number One Killer
The verdict is in - the dubious honor goes to roadsMore Deaths due to Road Mishaps Than Militancy in J-K in 2010Jammu and Kashmir has recorded more deaths in traffic accidents than due to militancy in 2010."More people have been killed and injured in road mishaps in...
Tulip Garden – The New Money Minting Machine
A report in the Kashmir Times describes the nefarious nexus between Floriculture Department and ContractorsTulip Garden a Boon for OfficialsD S AhmadSrinagar: Besides becoming a main attraction for the tourists since last few years, tulip garden, has allegedly become...
Alarming Facts About Disposal of Medical Wastes
Kashmir is still in a "stone age" in so far hospital waste management and disposal are concernedDo not Sleep on itEven after the tremendous expansion of medical services over the last few decades, healthcare in Kashmir still leaves a lot to be desired. Be it the lack...