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.
Is The White Fuzzy “Cotton” Blanketing the Valley a Pollen?
Majeed says contrary to the impression spread by uninformed media, the popular cotton ("phrast phump") in not pollen (Dr. Abdul Majeed Kak, 66, was born and in Nowhatta, Srinagar. He received his primary education from the Government Middle School in Nowhatta and his...
Honor Among Crooks
The Controller and Auditor General's (CAG's) Annual Report proves that in spite of programs funded by the Central Government to promote job growth in J&K, the administrative machinery in the State is not performing to even the most mediocre standards. But the most...
Unmitigated Indulgence
Fazili shares a common experience in Kashmir, demonstrating once more that the the society has become "a slave of traditions burdened by showmanship and rat race" (Er. Mohammad Ashraf Fazili, 68, was born in Srinagar. He received his early schooling from the...
The Blowback
Majeed says attracting large number of tourists may put more money in the economy, but at what price? (Dr. Abdul Majeed Kak, 66, was born and in Nowhatta, Srinagar. He received his primary education from the Government Middle School in Nowhatta and his secondary...
Pluralistic Engagement in a Land of Million Ethnicities
Amin travels South of the Jawahar Tunnel, and finds himself face-to-face with people of varying convictions but willing to engage in a civil dialogue to learn from his viewpoint. Out of the dialogue comes the promise of bridging cultures and improving trust in a...
Our Fragile Planet
Fazili Reflects on injustices inflicted on mother Earth (Er. Mohammad Ashraf Fazili, 68, was born in Srinagar. He received his early schooling from the Government Middle School, Nowhatta, Srinagar, and from M.P. High School, Baghi Dilawar Khan in Srinagar. Mr. Fazili...
Challenging Growing Wahabism in Kashmir
Two (of the many) recent commentaries written by valley journalists to condemn the growing unKashmiri culture in the valley. Mehmood's is generous to label its perpetuators as "compulsive representatives of Islam" (Mr. Mehmood-ur-Rashid, 40, was born in...
State That Shows Desdain Towards its Minorities
Empty rhetoric aside, J&K Gocernment's indifference is only spreading angst among minorities State Fails to Promulgate Minorities Act: J-K only state that doesn’t have minority panel Sumit Hakhoo (Tribune India) Jammu: Even after 21 years, the state of Jammu and...
Conserving State Resources
Dr. Ganaie has a point that medicinal plants are as precious a natural resources as oil and diamonds. Dr Khursheed Ahmad Ganaie is Assistant Professor, Department of Botany Islamia College Srinagar. Forest Flora on Sale........ This refers to the news item “Govt lifts...
Fida Iqbal in USA
Fida provides an interesting perspective as a visitor to World's richest country (Mr. Fida Iqbal, 49, 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 Bachelor's degree in...