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.
Established in 280 B.C.
Arjimand looks at the ancient city with deserving reverence(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, 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 in...
“Northern Buddhism”
Iqbal looks at the rise and fall of Buddhism in the valley(Mr. Iqbal Ahmad, 48, was born in Parigam Chek, Kulgam. He is a graduate with Diploma in Numismatics, Archaeology and Heritage. He is an archaeologist, writer, and a cultural historian. He is employed by the...
Kashmir Brand Gets Recognition
There is good news for shawl makersKashmir's Famous Kani Shawl Gets GI StatusJammu: Famous for its hand-woven designs, Kashmir's Kani Shawl has got the Geographical Indication (GI) status that would legally prohibit people from selling the drapes made at other places...
Let the Good Times Roll
Who cares if the State is broke and totally reliant on the Central Government for most of its budget? Politicians know how to look after their own needsState Spends Lavishly on CM, MinistersJammu: The state government which depends heavily on the Centre for funds has...
Hoping Against Hope
A 5,000 year old community celebrates with optimism even as it prepares for its final journey towards oblivion ... only 3,445 souls are left todayPandits Celebrate Ram Navmi as Unity DaySrinagar: Special prayers and ‘havans’ were held across the Valley today on the...
Life in a Fish Bowl
Amid official tepidity and absurdity of continuing violence, Kashmiris grab the nearest bottle ... or is it the case of too much leisure time and too little to do? Valley all set to Drown in LiquorJammu: Brushing aside allegations of discrimination and disparity...
J&K Budget 2010-2011
Arjimand looks for the silver lining in the latest budget, followed by an analysis in the Kashmir Times on the dirty open secret called the Overdraft (OD) and how it has enriched the J&K Bank(Mr. Arjimand Hussain Talib, 34, is a columnist/writer and a development...
Why Gender Discrimination?
Sadaf says that Kashmiri women will not settle for anything less than EQUAL status at par with men(Dr. Sadaf Munshi was born and raised in Srinagar. She received most of early education in Kahsmir which include primary school in the Standard Public School (Hawal,...
Male Hegemony
Balraj examines the the Bill that NC-PDP sneaked into the State assembly as a Private Member Bill bypassing the ruling coalition(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...
Hartal Culture, Hartal Misery
Firdaus points his finger at one segment of the "pampered society," forgetting that it was separatists who initially unleashed the hartal virus that has infected everybody in Kashmir(Mr. Firdous Syed, 44, was born in Bhaderwah, Doda, and had his schooling in Jammu. He...