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.
Summer of Anarchy – 4
A collage of stories capturing chaos and hope as law and order situation deteriorates in the valleyFrequent strikes hit Valley’s economy hardTejinder Singh Sodhi (Tribune)Srinagar: The ongoing strikes and curfew in the Valley are making a severe dent in the economy of...
Summer of Anarchy – 3
Sajad speaks about the "collatoral damage"(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 Government High School. He completed his B.Sc. from the...
Summer of Anarchy – 2
Mr. Bukhari makes a pitch for restoration of normalcy(Syed Rafiuddin Bukhari, 72, was born in Kreri in Baramulla District. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the Kashmir Media Group that publishes the English daily, Rising Kashmir, and soon-to-be launched Urdu daily, Bulund...
Summer of Anarchy – 1
"Confessional editorial" in the Greater Kashmir on 15th July 2010 exposes dysfunctionality of institutions and political structures in KashmirINTROSPECTIN 2008 summer, when Kashmir erupted over Amaranth Land row, it cost Kashmir unimaginably high in terms of economy...
The Kangri Unplugged
Majeed describes an unique appliance that neither needs an electrical socket nor batteries(Dr. Abdul Majeed Kak, 63, was born and in Nowhatta, Srinagar. He received his primary education from the Government Middle School in Nowhatta and his secondary school education...
Summer of Discontent
Syeda feels the sizzle when "doublespeak" collides with poor leadership(Ms. Syeda Afshana, 35, was born in Srinagar. She attended the Vishwa Bharti High School in Rainawari, Srinagar, and the Government Women's College in Srinagar where she received a B.Sc. degree....
What if the Status Quo is Self-Serving?
Ubaid has a word of caution for the assorted separatist leadership(Mr. Ubaid Mushtaq, 21, was born in Awantipora, Kashmir. He has finished his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) in Awantipora....
Attracting Tourism
Sajad reports on a motor rally to jump start the tourist season, but nothing will work until the civil society does not stand firm against anarchy in streets(Mr. Sajad Kralyari, 28, was born in Kralyar, Srinagar. He had his early schooling at the General Public...
The Liberation of Mind
Ishrat's counter-point to Riyaz Ahmad's commentary reminds one that Kashmiris - no matter what gender - may be chained by norms of the society, will never relinquish their freedom of thought(Ms. Ishrat Bashir Mattoo 28, was born in Srinagar. She went to a local public...
Kashmir Suffers Due to a Lack of Drug Control Policy
Jehangir conducted a research study on drug addiction in the valley. Before presenting his analysis, we detail the ground situation (two stories)(Mr. Jehangir Rashid Malik, 37, was born in Srinagar, and did his primary schooling at the Green Land Educational Institute...