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.
Sad Statistic: “Hartals” are a Growing Business in Kashmir
While other states break records in exports or academics, Kashmir is a master in shutdownsHartals record four-fold increase this yearSrinagar: There has been an almost four-time increase this year in the strikes and protest demonstrations called by separatist...
Is Kashmir an International Headline?
Nayeema provides a reality check knowing fully well that Kashmiris are so far from reality in their expectations that truth may not matter to most (Ms. Nayeema Ahmad Mahjoor, 53, was born in Srinagar, Kashmir. She completed her B.Sc, B.Ed, LL.B (Hons) and Diploma in...
TAAK Presents a Memorandum to Central Inerlocutors Dealing With Employment
Rauf in his capacity as President of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) presents a memorandum to the Central Committee exploring avenues for increased employment in Kashmir(Mr. Rauf Tramboo, 52, was born and raised in Srinagar. He completed his school...
Creating More Jobs for Kashmiris
Arjimand addresses a vexing issue of the day(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 subsequently graduated with a Bachelor's degree...
Economic Empowerment of Kashmiri Women
Roshan Ara says it is hard enough to be a woman in the present circumstances, but being respected by the society as a women with a professional career is even harder(Ms. Roshan Ara, 45, was born in Warihama, in Budgam district. She attended the Government High School...
The United Federation of Jammu and Kashmir
Tanveer's sense of idealism may be a bit unrealistic, but his love for motherland is unquestioned(Mr. Tanveer Ahmad, 38, was born in Gurutta, Tehsil Sensa, in the Kotli district of Azad Kashmir. He received his school education in Luton, Bedfordshire, U.K., and...
A Political Shop Called “Kashmir”
Suddenly it appears that marginalized Indian politicians and peacenicks have found a new hobbyTHIRD FRONT OF PEACE-KNICKSIn the later part of this week a high profile delegation of parliament members will be in Srinagar. Ram Vilas Paswan, Brinda Karat, D Raja and...
State’s First Environmental Report
Arjimand addresses environmental challenges in J&K(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 subsequently graduated with a...
Drowning in Excess
Ashraf says that 75% of the money sent by the federal government is pocketed by state politicians and officials. (Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, 67, was born and raised in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. High School and the S.P College before joining the Regional Engineering...
Did the “Hartal Calendar” Fiasco Benefit the PDP?
Arif conducts a post-mortem of political fallout from Hurriyat's questionable style of politics(Mr. Arif Bashir, 26, was born in Check-e-Ferozpora, Tangmarg. He completed his schooling in his native village, and obtained his Arts degree, with emphasis in English...