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.
The Civil Dialogue
Arshad argues for unity in diversityWe The DividedSYED ARSHAD HUSSAIN KASHANIThe strength lies in the unity on principles. Divided we are crippled. that is what has been proven in history all along. It is not the number but the strong will and commitment of the masses...
The Matter of Life and Death
Not only is medical care dismal in hospitals, even the emergency care is patheticValley Lacks Critical Care AmbulancesSrinagar: Timely medical help during emergencies can make adifference between life and death. Ambulances equipped withlife-saving facilities,...
Are Western Style Stimulus Jobs Appropriate in Kashmir?
Arjimand comments on short-term jobs being created in the State to stimulate the economy. First the news item, then his commentary(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, is a columnist/writer and a development professional who matriculated from Tyndale Biscoe Memorial School...
Water Polo in Kashmir
Yusuf sees competitive tourism market leading to new creativity in boosting tourism in Kashmir(Mr. Mohammad Yusuf, 56, was born in the Dalgate area of Srinagar. He attended Government Schools in Drugjan, Sonawar, and Batwara, all in Srinagar, and completed his college...
When Leadership Fails, New Stars Emerge
Balraj Puri examines the backdrop that makes Shah Faesal's success story even more endearing(Mr. Balraj Puri, 80, was born in Jammu city and attended the Ranbir High School and the Prince of Wales College in Jammu. He is a journalist, human rights activist and a...
The “Other” Twin Monsters
Fida comments on why Srinagar has turned hellishly unbearable and how to save it before it is too late(Mr. Fida Iqbal, 47, was born in Sopore. He attended the D.A.V. School in Nayadyaar, Rainawari, and the Government Higher Secondary School in Sopore. He obtained his...
Filthy City, Filthy Mafia
Dirt apart, Srinagar also battles a marauding land mafiaO SrinagarRIYAZ AHMADLast month one of my friends teaching in a US university asked for the photographs of Srinagar city for an academic exercise. However, what he saw stunned him into disbelief. An aerial snap...
Filthy City
Two commentaries - one in the Greater Kashmir, and the other in the Kashmir Images - address the most recent dubious "award" bestowed on SrinagarWe the DirtiestAjaz ul HaqueA touch more and we would have won over Pilbit, Lakhanpur and Churu, the cities dirtier than...
This is no”T&D Mumbo Jumbo” – it is Outright Thievery – and Kashmiris are #1
What is basically electricity theft is being repackaged in politically correct terms, but J&K takes the "Gold Medal" of infamyT&D Losses in J&K Highest in CountryJammu: The Government proposed to bring down Transmission and Distribution (T&D) losses,...
Gender Equality
Rufaida demands R-E-S-P-E-C-TStrength Thy Name is WomanRUFAIDA MANSOORA feminist is not the one who wants to be treated like a man but who keeps herself at par with men. Women are in many ways ahead of men, but unfortunately most women either are not aware of their...