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.
Historical Perspective on Accession
Saraf analyses Omar Abdullah's recent statement in light of Kashmir's political history(Mr. Bhushan Lal Saraf, 65, was born in Batapora, Shopian. He finished his schooling from the Government Higher Secondary School in Shopian, and completed his professional degrees...
Who is Protecting Human Rights of Children?
Zeenat speaks to educators and rings alarm bellsAzadi without education – USELESS!Zeenat Zeeshan Fazi (Kashmir Images)Srinagar: The prolonged denial of schooling to the students could develop them into “negative” individuals with anti-social and aggressive behaviors,...
The Ugly Face of Corruption
As hired contractors and government officials enrich their wallets and bank accounts, obnoxious weeds and encroachments engulf the water bodiesDying Dal, Nigeen in Last ThroesArif Shafi Wani (Greater Kashmir)THE non-seriousness of the Government to restore the glory...
Can Interlocutors Succeed?
Arjimand notes that both the Central Government and Separatists, led by Ali Shah Geelani, have many loose ends to tie to make the work of interlocutors meaningful(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, was born in Srinagar. He is a columnist/writer and a development...
The Open Closet: An Illness Like Any Other
Maajid bares open the stigma associated with mental disorders when in fact it is an illness like any other affecting all ages and all strata of society(Dr. Abdul Maajid, 38, was born in Srinagar. He received his undergraduate education in Srinagar, and completed...
A Question of Water
From renegotiating the Indus Water Treaty to adding a State tax to hydoelectric power generated by Kashmir's resources, Javid discusses a wide canvass of options under consideration(Dr. Javid Iqbal, 64, was born in Srinagar. He attended the D.A.V. School, Srinagar,...
A Faustian Bargain
Consequence of poor leadership: G. N. Azad, during his tenure as the CM, treats a few Jammu based Kashmiri Pandit (KP) leaders to free meals and membership in the "Working Groups" constituted by New Delhi, and in return seals the deal for permanent exile of KP's in...
“As You Sow, So Shall You Reap”
Sajad describes one aspect of the havoc caused by mindless hartals imposed by Separatists(Mr. Sajad Kralyari, 28, was born in Kralyar, Srinagar. He had his early schooling at the General Public Mission (GPM) School, and his higher secondary education from the...
The Good Life (for Kashmir’s Ministers)
Imagine without federal oversight (as demanded by Azadi seekers) how worse the situation will get!J-K Spent Rs 9 cr on Ministers’ PadsBashaarat Masood (Indian Express)In the past three years, the National Conference-Congress coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir...
Did Omar Abdullah Really Say Something New? Two Competing Perspectives From the Valley
Rafiuddin suggests Omar Abdullah made a historic statement to restore his legitimacy. That may be so, but what he said - was it really historic? Fayyaz challenges that contention. Point and Counter-Point by two eminent valley journalists(Syed Rafiuddin Bukhari, 72,...