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.
Past Bumps into the Future With Uncertainity
Afsana describes the paradox faced by carpet weavers - send their young ones to learn the art or educate them to take up other professions(Ms. Afsana Rashid, 30, was born and raised in Srinagar and attended the Minto Circle High School. She graduated from the...
Upgrading the State Vigilance Commission (SVC)
An Editorial in the Greater Kashmir argues in favor of extending the national law to the State through adoption in the State AssemblySVC - A GOOD MOVEThe setting up of the State Vigilance Commission (SVC) on the pattern of the Central Vigilance Commission is a good...
Accountability Appears Missing in the State Accountability Commission (SAC)
Ranbir Singh discusses evolution of the Accountability Commission in India, and resistance of the J&K officialdom to adopt it in letter and spirit(Mr. Ranbir Singh Pathania, 30, was born in born in Jammu city. He did his early schooling from the J.S. Luthra...
It is About Time
J&K Domestic Violence Bill is long overdue. While such an announcement has been made, there are concerns about effectivess of the Bill because the process is not transparent enough. A women's group, "Athwaas" protests. Law on Violence Against Women in...
Environmental Blowback Affects Heritage and Tourist Trade
Houseboat owners can not be faulted for their feelings today, but the question that begs an answer is why did they allow a slow but steady ecological destruction of Kashmir's pristine waters and lakes?Kashmir Fast Losing the Houseboat Heritage: HOASrinagar: The Valley...
The Dog City
Muzaffar says canine menace continues to dog the cityWHO LET THE DOGS OUTMuzafar WaniSrinagar: Four days back when Ghulam Qadir Sofi of Zaina Kadal left his home for having his hair cut, the old man had no idea that a group of stray dogs ruling the street outside...
Finding Value in Learning From Great Books in an era of Popcorn Journalism
The following Editorial in the Rising Kashmir sees hope in a recent meeting to rejuvenate the library system, but first we need to recover nearly 10,000 loaned books in default mostly borrowed by state gazetted officers Ignored Treasure TrovesLibraries are considered...
Kashmiri Women Deserve Better Recognition
Wasim makes a point about the absence of women's role and contribution in the present debate(Mr. Wasim Hussain, 29, was born in Srinagar. He attended Government High School and the Gandhi Memorial College, both in Srinagar. He has completed graduation and is pursuing...
A Closeup of Lakes of Ladakh
Ashraf shares a truly marvelous and unique experience(Mr. Mohammad Ashraf, 66, was born and raised in Srinagar. He attended the S.P. High School and the S.P College before joining the Regional Engineering College at Naseem Bagh in Civil Engineering. However, he...
Confusing Faith and Spirituality with Religious Practices
When two locals intellectuals spar on the meaning of religion, the winner is the reader. Muzaffar Khadim takes on Ajaz-ul-Haque. Both perspectives are reproduced below(Mr. Muzaffar Khadim, 59, was born in Srinagar. He did his early schooling in Srinagar and after...