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.
Yet Another Historical Proof That Jammu and Kashmir are Linked
Archaeological twin found in RajouriFamous Martand like temple found in RajouriJammu: The famous Martand like temple recently found in Rajouri district and considered to be the earliest one of Jammu region, has finally attracted the much needed attention of State...
Road to Chaos
Mustaq highlights the disconnect between increasing vehicular traffic and the poor state of infrastructure, and is concerned about public safety and impact on tourism(Mr. Mushtaq Sidiqi, 56, was born in Srinagar. He went to the C.M.S Tyndale Biscoe Memorial School,...
Stories From the Edge
Javid, Kashmirforum.org Blog's unofficial "resident philosopher," mulls on a fabric (called Kashmiriyat) that seems to have lost its color(Dr. Javid Iqbal, 63, was born in Srinagar. He attended the D.A.V. School, Srinagar, and graduated in Medicine from the Government...
Stinking Capital
Srinagar earns the dubious distinction of being among the dirtiest cities in India (Greater Kashmir). An Editorial in the Rising Kashmir puts the blame squarly on its citizens - both within the government and those on the outsideSrinagar - 4th Dirtiest CitySrinagar:...
Literally Going to Dogs
Sameer shares a common topic of discussion these daysDog Menace: Problems and RemediesSameer Rashid BhatThe pleasant weather last evening compelled even a slothful person like me to take a stroll. Within few minutes my leisure walk quickened to a brisk pace and soon I...
Solving Unemployment in Kashmir
Minister claims youth spurn seed money to start businesses over a desire to get "sarkari" jobs, little realizing that massive corruption is killing enterpeneurship and attracting youth to seek positions where illicit greed thrives Rather Confirms 5 Lakh Jobless...
Accountability and Transparency Not Welcome Here
This is Jammu and Kashmir, home of the institutionalized corruptionExcept JK Bank, no PSU in JK Prepares Balance Sheet19 public undertakings skipping yearly audit for more than a decadeJammu: Out of 20 Public Sector Units in J&K, 19 have been skipping audit on...
Kashmiri Youth – II: How high can it get?
Shah Faesal became the first Kashmiri to top the IAS examination. His achievement led to soul searching in the Kashmiri Press. Here are three differing perspectives(Dr. Shah Faesal, 27, was born in Sogam village of District Kupwara. He studied at his village schools...
Kashmiri Youth – I: How low can it get?
Romance with the gun has burdened the society with more ills than anyone can fathomPressure of studies forces six boys to plan crossing LoCBaramulla: It was the pressure of studies that forced six students of Islamia Model School and Government High School, Palhalan,...
The First Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) is Coming to Kashmir
Sajad discusses an exciting new business that is about to land in Srinagar(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....