Kashmir

Is Leadership Change Possible in BSP?

Is Leadership Change Possible in BSP?

The recent Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly election has once again exposed the continuing decline of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). In this, the BSP has got only one seat and it has been badly wiped out while Mayawati claimed to form the government with an absolute majority. In this election, the vote percentage of BSP has come down from 22.3%[Read More…]

by 25/03/2022 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Tango Dance in Bengal

Tango Dance in Bengal

What we are witnessing in Bengal today reminds us of the saying: `It takes two to tango’, implying that in a dispute it is not one alone, but the other is also responsible. During the electoral campaign in the state, the Trinamul Congress (TMC) chief minister Mamata Banerjee coined the slogan: ‘Khela Hobey’ (It will be a game). Her rival[Read More…]

by 28/05/2021 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir In search of Subhan Hajam

Kashmir In search of Subhan Hajam

History has become witness to the fact that when plans to destroy the identity or the character of any nation were conspired in political institutions, one of the strategies induced in the society was to create social chaos and confusion. Creating an environment of threat perception, robbing of identity, grabbing of property or reducing social cohesions had been made the[Read More…]

by 25/07/2020 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Aftermath of Abrogation of Article 370

The Aftermath of Abrogation of Article 370

Co-Written by Ishfaq Majid & Varinder Singh In 1949, a special provision was added to India’s constitution providing autonomy to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The article was allowing the state to have its own constitution, a separate flag, and independence over all matters except foreign affairs, defence, and communications. Another provision later added under Article 370 was 35A[Read More…]

by 08/09/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
In Kashmir: Love and respect thy patient

In Kashmir: Love and respect thy patient

                    Today, the world over, a number of issues confronting the societies are discussed day in and day out and intellectual analysis and outpourings start to emanate once the issue at stake draws the attention of masses in the society, Healthcare is one such issue which holds a tremendous significance in[Read More…]

by 01/08/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Rage and Reason- Gowhar Geelani- Book Review

Kashmir: Rage and Reason- Gowhar Geelani- Book Review

Reviewer: Abid Ahmad Shah Book: Kashmir-Rage and Reason Author: Gowhar Geelani Publisher: Rupa Publications Price: 395   Kashmir is glorified the world over as paradise on the earth, second to Switzerland in terms of scenic beauty, serene valleys, calm and fresh waters and colourful flora and fauna. But, beyond the gaze of this whole matrix lies a narrative of pains,[Read More…]

by 27/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Book Review, Kashmir
In Conversation with Ghulam Nabi Aatash

In Conversation with Ghulam Nabi Aatash

Kashmir is a place endowed by divinity from every niche. From eons valley has been witnessing umpteen legendary writers, scholars and poets. Besides breathtaking, splendiferous natural beauty, Kashmir has rich historical traditions. Folklore is one of the important parts of our culture which is passed down from generation to generation. Folklore is an oral history preserved by the people; these[Read More…]

by 26/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Arts/Literature, Kashmir
Photo by Shabir Hassan

Gowhar Geelani’s book Kashmir: Rage and Reason launched

  Can Kashmir’s conflict be solved through serious political engagements? This central question prevailed throughout the discussion that followed the release of Gowhar Geelani’s book Kashmir, Rage and Reason, here at the India International Centre in New Delhi on July 17. “The idea of the book emerged in 2008 when many-many civilians were killed, then 2010 (army crackdown) happened. My[Read More…]

by 18/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Zojila pass tunnel

Kashmir: The Missing Tunnels!

(One of the reasons for unstable connectivity of the valley in the absence of the traditional Jhelum Valley Road is the missing tunnels on most of the other links going through the surrounding mountains!) The National Highway NH-1A, the only life line to Kashmir valley has given this year the worst headache during its entire existence. Earlier too it had[Read More…]

by 18/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
13 July 1931 – And A Butler Change Destiny of A Slave Nation

13 July 1931 – And A Butler Change Destiny of A Slave Nation

Some moments are important than epochs in the histories of nations. So holds true about 13 July 1931 in the history of Kashmir. On this day v people of Kashmir scripted their history with their blood. It was not the first day when people laid their lives for just cause- history of Kashmir after 1819 is replete with incidents when[Read More…]

by 13/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Struggling Peace

Kashmir’s Struggling Peace

The troubled valley of Kashmir, is a place, where seasons of peace, don’t last long. After death of more than hundred thousand people, it has been declared as a war zone, which has its boiling points, that have precipitated, out of its historic phases of insurgency. It is also a valley of mass protests, arising out of conditions, that are[Read More…]

by 01/07/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
‘Back to Village’: Government running with hare, hunting with hounds

‘Back to Village’: Government running with hare, hunting with hounds

‘Back to village’, the programme launched by the government for the villagers to end their miseries has brought no cheer among the dwellers of hamlets in the Valley as the Gram Sabhas and other awareness campaigns organized in last few days witnessed less participation of people. The programme aimed to provide facilities to people at their door step had less[Read More…]

by 28/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The vanishing green belt of Kashmir !

The vanishing green belt of Kashmir !

(One of the main causes for drastic climate change in the valley has been the indiscriminate felling of trees and the conversion of agricultural land!) The most extensively used words these days are the “Climate Change”! The weather in most parts of the world has been behaving in a strange way. Some places are getting extremely hot while as in[Read More…]

In response to Haseeb A Drabu’s observations about right to property & JKB vis a vis State Govt published in GK

In response to Haseeb A Drabu’s observations about right to property & JKB vis a vis State Govt published in GK

(A) Right to property: First, in his article “Article 35 A: Myth or Reality” , published in GK on 03-04-2019, Mr. Drabu has written: “In 1950, when the J&K government initiated ‘land to tiller’, it was not legally possible to do so under the Indian Constitution. Till 1978, Right to Property under Article 19 was a fundamental right. It was[Read More…]

by 26/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Adventure Sports Rescue

Kashmir: Adventure Sports Rescue

All Adventure Sports activities are hazardous by nature and need an efficient rescue service to avoid fatal accidents Adventure Sports were introduced in Kashmir on a regular basis as an “Active Tourism” activity in early seventies of the last century by establshing an Adventure Tourism Wing in the Directorate of Tourism. The seven Ski and Mountaineering Instructors trained by the[Read More…]

by 20/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir Today: Striving for Peace

Kashmir Today: Striving for Peace

After the massive mandate in 2019 General Elections, Narendra Modi Government is in the firm saddle. Now Mr. Amit Shah, who seems to be the most powerful person after Modi is the Home Minster. It is expected that he will pay special attention to the nagging Kashmir issue. Different social groups, the victims of the turmoil in Kashmir, are also[Read More…]

by 17/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
A People’s Peace Initiative In Kashmir

A People’s Peace Initiative In Kashmir

Sanjay Tula and his wife Tula Sanjay are products of Jayaprakash Narayan’s total revolution movement in the ‘70s. They live in Mehsana, Gujarat and run a small organization called Vishwagram which hosts less than 20 children picked up from railway platforms. However, Sanjay is leading a silent peace initiative in Jammu and Kashmir which may never produce any macro level[Read More…]

by 17/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Delimitation of J&K Assembly seats

Delimitation of J&K Assembly seats

Delimitation of  Assembly constituencies in J&K is the new war cry let loose by Sangh Parivar & its drooling followers. Columns , opinions & views have started appearing  in print & social media  exhorting the new Govt. in New-Delhi to initiate such an action so as to show People of Kashmir their political worth as it has shown to Muslims[Read More…]

by 11/06/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Pellet injuries – Physical and Psychological trauma

Pellet injuries – Physical and Psychological trauma

Living with deformity is very difficult. The degree of difficulty varies with the intensity of disability and its impact on people. One of the vital parts of human body is the eye. So, a disease or injury to the eye or eyes has a significant impact on lives of people. The use of pellets in Kashmir has caused loss of[Read More…]

by 01/06/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Solving the Kashmir Problem

Solving the Kashmir Problem

(India and Pakistan have now strong and stable governments. The leaders in both countries claim to be people friendly. There cannot be a better opportunity than this to solve the most intractable problem of Kashmir!) The recent elections have thrown up Narendra Modi as the uncontested leader of the 1.3 billion people of India. He has shown that he has[Read More…]

by 30/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Facebook blocks page of Good Morning Kashmir, deletes hundreds of posts

Facebook blocks page of Good Morning Kashmir, deletes hundreds of posts

Srinagar: Facebook on Wednesday blocked the official page of Srinagar based english daily ‘Good Morning Kashmir’ and deleted hundreds of its posts for not “following community standards”, shocking its editors who demanded immediate restoration of the page. Good Morning Kashmir , a daily English newspaper had shared the routine news reports for which Facebook blocked their Facebook page. “The issue,[Read More…]

by 29/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Zakir Musa’s killing: intense clashes erupt in Valley, curfew imposed, internet snapped

Zakir Musa’s killing: intense clashes erupt in Valley, curfew imposed, internet snapped

Srinagar, May 23: After the news of Zakir Musa’s killing spread in the valley, intense clashes erupted in various parts of Kashmir valley on Thursday evening. As per reports, as soon as the news of Zakir Musa’s killing spread across the valley, scores of youth from many parts of the valley took to roads and started throwing stones on government[Read More…]

by 24/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Governance, not Politics!

Kashmir: Governance, not Politics!

(Kashmir’s political problem is a Gordian knot which no one has been able to disentangle for last 70 years. Till the problem gets resolved, there is need for good governance to at least make daily living conditions of the citizens comfortable) Most of the political leaders in Kashmir from all the “streams” talk about the “Political” problem. The mainstream leaders[Read More…]

by 16/05/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Bandipora rape case: Student protests escalate across Kashmir; govt shuts down schools, colleges to curb unrest

Bandipora rape case: Student protests escalate across Kashmir; govt shuts down schools, colleges to curb unrest

Srinagar, May 14: Student protests against rape of three-year-old minor girl in Bandipora district continue to rock Kashmir Valley on Tuesday, even as authorities had ordered the closure of some colleges but at different places clashes between Students and government forces turned violent particularly in Srinagar city. In Srinagar, a large number of students from Amar Singh College on Tuesday[Read More…]

by 14/05/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Need For Adventure Tourism Directorate

Kashmir: Need For Adventure Tourism Directorate

(The most promising sector in Tourism is Adventure Tourism but to promote and develop it on modern lines there is urgent need for an independent organization of trained people in the line)  The Tourism arrivals these days seem to be on a very low key. The month of May used to be the peak seasonas regards domestic tourism. Unfortunately, some[Read More…]

by 09/05/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Bleeding Economy! | Mohammad Ashraf

Kashmir’s Bleeding Economy! | Mohammad Ashraf

(The uncertain situation for last few years is making already fragile Kashmir economy to bleed without any redressal in sight!) The founder of the Ziraat Times, Arjimand Hussain Talib in a recent post on the Facebook while highlighting the problems faced by the trade in Kashmir has observed, “Kashmir’s economy is dying silently, with far-reaching long term negative impacts.It is[Read More…]

by 02/05/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
A Kashmiri Pandit Writes To Home Minister On Highway Ban | Akhilesh Nagari & Hanan Zaffar

A Kashmiri Pandit Writes To Home Minister On Highway Ban | Akhilesh Nagari & Hanan Zaffar

“I can still hear those cries and painful goodbyes I can still feel that aggressive wind swaying my hair and mind I still feel that blood rush rising through my vein when I hear them saying HUM KASHMIRI HAI AUR KASHMIR HAMARA HAI.” The line echoes the pain created in the absence of a home. Sagrika Kissu, a 26-year-old journalist, wrote[Read More…]

by 30/04/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Article 370: A journey from falsity to reality or vice versa? | M J Aslam

Article 370: A journey from falsity to reality or vice versa? | M J Aslam

Prelude:  With the end of WWII, it became clearer than ever that India was going to get independence from British Rule. Under the Government of India Act, 1935 the foundation was already laid for an electoral democracy in United India. In winter 1945-1946, elections by “limited franchise”, though, were held for twelve provincial assembles & central assembly of “United India”.[Read More…]

by 29/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Wetlands Turning Dry | Sheikh Umar Ahmad

Kashmir’s Wetlands Turning Dry | Sheikh Umar Ahmad

Growing encroachments, pollution & Lackadaisical approach of state authorities damage the wetlands Kashmir is God gifted with immense natural resources that give it a paradise personification on earth. Being geographically small and fragile ecosystem, it balances its eco-stability through natural endowments it holds. Of late, Kashmir is marred by political & geo instability that had put its ecology at the[Read More…]

by 27/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir, Environmental Protection
Kashmir: Starting Tourist Charters

Kashmir: Starting Tourist Charters

(The ideal thing to keep the Tourist inflow appreciable and protect the environment is to start dedicated charter flights from some of the most potential markets to destinations in Kashmir) The most beneficial aspect of Tourism is “Sustainable Tourism” which strikes a balance between the tourist in flow and preservation of environment. Globally Tourism is supposed to be booming business.[Read More…]

by 26/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Sopore Rape Shame

Sopore Rape Shame

Co-Written by Meer Abass & Aurangzeb Arif ” to ask the victim what lies beneath the misery “ ” They say , I was never a part of this world ‘ Ever been to lanes of mockery, then you find what it takes the decorum of disgrace. The infamous rape of a girl child by the demonic 50 year old[Read More…]

by 26/04/2019 1 comment Kashmir, Patriarchy
Mohammad Ashraf – Disaster in the making!

Mohammad Ashraf – Disaster in the making!

(The failure of various government agencies in executing flood prevention measures in spite of a lapse of almost 5 years is a recipe for new disaster!) According to a news report, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry has expressed concern over abrupt rise in Jhelum water level. According to them just a few millimeters of rain have caused such[Read More…]

by 18/04/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Mir Abass-Highway Ban in Kashmir :Horrors of Democracy…

Mir Abass-Highway Ban in Kashmir :Horrors of Democracy…

The government of the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir said civilian traffic on the highway was banned from 4 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday and Wednesday until May 31, to allow for exclusive movement of security convoys.The decision comes after a suicide bomber rammed his car into a military convoy on the same highway – a lifeline for[Read More…]

by 18/04/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Tawfeeq Irshad Mir- Kashmir Faces Discrimination

Tawfeeq Irshad Mir- Kashmir Faces Discrimination

Leave aside the privileges accruing from Article 370, our state has not even such powers as are available to other states of the union under its constitution. Senior IAS, IPS officers and bureaucrats are usually drawn from outside the state. We have a host of non-state senior officers here. This policy creates an impression among the local bureaucrats, police officers[Read More…]

by 15/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Sheikh Umar Ahmad: What makes Kashmiri Sheikh’s different from Arabs

Sheikh Umar Ahmad: What makes Kashmiri Sheikh’s different from Arabs

From Hindu Brahmin convert’s in our Kashmir to inherently Islamic religious clerics & kings, Sheikh Clan dominate at extreme edges world over Sheikh as a word in Arabic is a title denoting a political or spiritual leader of a community. It represents an honorific title, as in Saudi who particularly deals with the petroleum oil exports. In Sufism, a Sheikh[Read More…]

by 14/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Permission to travel on national highway in Kashmir. Every Wednesday & Sunday, Human branding

The Highway Ban in Indian Administered Kashmir

On April 3, Indian authorities issued an order banning civilian vehicular traffic on the highway in Kashmir stretching from district Baramulla upto Udhampur on Wednesdays and Sundays upto May 31 in   for the smooth movement of army convoys. And we can’t say wether the order will be lifted in future or not, as most of the orders and laws once[Read More…]

by 13/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir Tourism needs reorientation!

Kashmir Tourism needs reorientation!

(In view of the prevailing situation, Tourism needs reorientation both in marketing strategy and in the organization managing it!) Kashmir has been known through ages as a Paradise on Earth. In fact, the Mughal time couplet, “If there is a Paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here, and it is here!” has always been quoted to promote tourism[Read More…]

by 11/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Freedom Of Press Imperilled

Kashmir: Freedom Of Press Imperilled

‘The liberty of the press is indeed essential to the nature of a free state. Every freeman has an undoubted right to lay what he pleases before the public: to forbid this is to destroy the freedom of the press.’ – ‘Free speech must be kept free even in wartime, even when passions are high because that is when the[Read More…]

by 09/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Neither curse nor cross of Albatross: (Beyond Two Peers of Kashmir)

Neither curse nor cross of Albatross: (Beyond Two Peers of Kashmir)

In past, Kashmiris were naïve & simple. It was the time when the gradual progression of science in Europe had not yet crossed the mountains of valley of Kashmir. Modern technology & fast modes of communication were not yet discovered. The material prosperity & modernization had not yet touched the people of this landlocked country. So, in those situational conditions[Read More…]

by 05/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Hospitals

Kashmir’s Hospitals

(The basic requirement of any healthcare set up is a hospital. Kashmir has many government and private hospitals but these are lacking in many respects) Before one examines the status of the hospitals in Kashmir, it would be useful to recapitulate how Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia describes a hospital. “A hospital is a health care institution providing patient treatment with specialized medical and nursing staff and[Read More…]

by 04/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Polls, Politics and Experimentation

Polls, Politics and Experimentation

I am not a psephologist. Notwithstanding, in the democratic process, the role of psephology is recognized as an important one, the study of elections in Jammu and Kashmir has never been my cup of tea. I never endeavoured to analyse voting patterns, regional and sub-regional factors, the role of caste, sects and religious factors, in the elections held in the[Read More…]

by 02/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashir Scientist

Kashir Scientist

A non-profit educational forum to encourage research in Science among school & college going students & impact upon outreach at grassroots level Kashir Scientist, founded in 2011, is a non-profit organization of research scientists, students and teachers from Jammu and Kashmir conceived with sole intention of encouraging school & college going students to pursue science education & impact upon its[Read More…]

by 01/04/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Article 35 A: A Rejoinder To Arun Jaitley

Article 35 A: A Rejoinder To Arun Jaitley

Through a written blog followed by his tweet, Union Finance Minster Mr. Arun Jailey has yet again stirred the issue of Article 35A due to be adjudicated by Supreme court any time now. His tweet on the issue reads as:  “Chowkidar Arun Jaitley‏ @arunjaitley Article 35A surreptitiously inserted by Pt. Nehru’s govt. in the Constitution in 1954 vide Presidential order is[Read More…]

by 30/03/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmiris perhaps will never settle for anything that conveys them a sense of defeat

Kashmiris perhaps will never settle for anything that conveys them a sense of defeat

Kashmir, once christened as paradise on earth is now a crown of militarization from last three decades where Kashmiris are paralyzed in conflict molded battleground resulting in generations growing up with disruption and conflict way of life. The burgeoning crisis in Kashmir is tantamount to a powderkeg and could bring two nuclear-armed neighbors to the brink of war, as was[Read More…]

by 30/03/2019 1 comment Kashmir
The “Dream Merchants” of Kashmir!

The “Dream Merchants” of Kashmir!

(Most of the political leaders in Kashmir have been selling “Dreams” to the people that ultimately get interpreted in their own personal well-being leaving the people high and dry!) The tragedy of Kashmir right from the start of the struggle of its people for emancipation has been their political leaders behaving like the “Dream Merchants”. The people have been shown[Read More…]

by 28/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Pulwama Aftermath: The Love for Sikh Community

Pulwama Aftermath: The Love for Sikh Community

On 14th February 2019, vehicles of security forces which were on its way to reach Srinagar came under a heavy attach when a vehicle-borne bomber attacked the vehicles at Lethpora Pulwama. As a result of the attack, 49 CRPF personal died along with the person who carried the attack. As soon as the attack took place, the Kashmiri students studying[Read More…]

by 24/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Mirwaiz Kashmir Institution: Its importance as  Socio-Religious Organization

The Mirwaiz Kashmir Institution: Its importance as Socio-Religious Organization

Like Chris, a French writer and filmmaker, “What I’m passionate about is History; politics interests me only insofar as it is the cross-section of History in the present.” Looking, at the contemporary scenario at our own place, I was thinking how past three centuries have shaped our contemporary narrative, in this column I may not venture courage to write how[Read More…]

by 18/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir-A simmering Volcano  & Chinese efforts of neutralization

Kashmir-A simmering Volcano  & Chinese efforts of neutralization

  China has yet again blocked the move at UN to designate Masood Azhar as a global terrorist. India is  highly disappointed at China’s stand  which had the support of other permanent members of security council- US, UK, France Russia and many other non-permanent members like Germany, Poland & Belgium etc. A security council diplomat, not happy with the Chinese[Read More…]

by 17/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Restoring Kashmir’s Traditional Routes

Restoring Kashmir’s Traditional Routes

The uncertainty of the present physical link of the valley to the outside world shows the urgency of restoring other historical routes to prevent people from getting claustrophobic! The frequent closure of the National Highway NH-1A linking valley by surface to the outside world during the current winter has almost turned the local population claustrophobic. They feel to have been[Read More…]

by 14/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
When I hoped for Peace In despair

When I hoped for Peace In despair

At this uncertain time of scarred historicity and the chaotic years I had followed from the beginning of my existence onto the world, memory of my past would often haunt me. I had seen the people of my age suffocated, caught in the hue and cry not finding any sight of peace dawning. I had heard houses have souls and[Read More…]

by 12/03/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Returns To International Discourse

Kashmir Returns To International Discourse

Thank God for the clouds of war that frighteningly hovered for a week have started waning from the skies of the Sub-Continent. In the seventy years, acrimonious history of India and Pakistan another terrifying date has been added to already existing long list of the dates reminiscent of awful tales of death and destruction. On Tuesday 26 February 2019,  twenty[Read More…]

by 11/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Deconstructing grand myth of Kashmiriyat

Deconstructing grand myth of Kashmiriyat

No book of history or literature of any credence on Kashmir has anywhere used the term “Kashmiriyat” in its references to socio-cultural values of its inhabitants:  Kashmiris. I.  However, the term “did not emerge ex-nihilo from the soil of Kashmir.  II. It has a clear background more political than pretended or projected socio-religious that gave birth to it. In a desperate[Read More…]

by 08/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Ban on Jamaat e Islami , Unconstitutional, Undemocratic

Ban on Jamaat e Islami , Unconstitutional, Undemocratic

The current comprehensive crackdown  on Jama’at-e-Islami though not unprecedented is  unique at the same  in many respects.In the past whenever there was a ban  placed on it, it was on the instigation of local political players. It is interesting to note that when emergency was declared in India in 1975 by Mrs Gandhi, Jam’at was left out of its purview.[Read More…]

by 07/03/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Why Ban Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir?

Why Ban Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir?

So Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir has been declared an ‘unlawful association’ and banned for five years on the grounds of what the notification says ‘Indulging in subversive activities’ and all the manufactured tosh the document is crammed with. it should not come as a calamitous shock, especially to those who have understood or experienced the petty machinations the present regime has churned[Read More…]

by 05/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Dissent and Democracy : Banning The Jama’at-e-Islamia

Dissent and Democracy : Banning The Jama’at-e-Islamia

For four million people living in   an area of 85,805.8 square milesin the bosom of mighty Himalayas,Saturday ‘12 March 1932’ was a momentous day.On this day after years of struggle and sacrifices,   ‘Maharaja Hari Singh, the autocratic ruler of Kashmir  on the recommendations of the Glancy Commission Report announced the grant of the rights to freedom of press and platform[Read More…]

by 05/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Why Ban FAT Schools?

Why Ban FAT Schools?

 “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education”                                 ~ Martin Luther King  A notification released by the Ministry of human affairs on 28th February has imposed[Read More…]

by 05/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Amendment Order, 2019: A critical analysis

The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Amendment Order, 2019: A critical analysis

Everybody knows that Article 35-A is sub judice before the Apex Court of India.  The petitioners who challenged the Article are proxy of the ruling class of India who want the Article to be declared unconstitutional in total disregard of the conditions under which it was incorporated in the Constitution by the First President of Free India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad,[Read More…]

by 03/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Sirhama : The Village of Apple and Education

Sirhama : The Village of Apple and Education

  Sirhama, one of the most promising village in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, is located in the lap of beautiful mountains.  It is located on the eastern side of the mountain ( Khareewan)  which demarcated the Srigufwara tehsil of Anantnag district from the Tral tehsil of the Pulwama district. It is positioned in the Dochnipora   bloc that[Read More…]

by 01/03/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: What Would Gandhi Say?

Kashmir: What Would Gandhi Say?

We are on the brink of a disaster What would Mahatma Gandhi say about the threat of war between India and Pakistan,  which has brought the two nations and the world to the brink of a nuclear catastrophe? Throughout the struggle for Indian independence, Gandhi was faced with the serious problem of avoiding conflict between religious groups once independence had[Read More…]

by 28/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
The Rumour Mill!

The Rumour Mill!

(The events of last few years have affected the Valley people psychologically so much that any rumour sells and puts the inhabitants on the edge!) Kashmiris are traditionally given to rumour mongering and then believing in rumours without any attempt to verify these! During recent years of turmoil the rumours have had a free flow in Kashmir. Many a times[Read More…]

by 28/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Where is the outrage for over 100 Kashmiri women raped by Indian soldiers on a single night?

Where is the outrage for over 100 Kashmiri women raped by Indian soldiers on a single night?

Ever since more than 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers were killed in a suicide attack in Pulwama on February 14, the Indian mainstream has gone mad with more hawkish nationalists calling for revenge and war. The incident took place in Indian-administered Kashmir, where an armed insurgency for independence has been going on for years. The Indian government generally blames neighbouring Pakistan[Read More…]

by 26/02/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Remembering Gang Rape of Kunan Poshpora (Kashmir)

Remembering Gang Rape of Kunan Poshpora (Kashmir)

Co-Written by Inamul Haq& Tajamul Maqbool Rape as well as sexual violence committed by security forces against women have been an indispensable element of Indian military strategy in conflict zones like Kashmir and northeast. Those who were legally bound to protect the civilian rights have been involved incrimes particularly against women in Kashmir. For two decades there have been incidents[Read More…]

by 24/02/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Kashmir Question:Made in India

The Kashmir Question:Made in India

It has been stated before that when there is no political will to resolve a long pending dispute then ‘all roads can lead to hell’. Loss of 49 CRPF soldier’s lives in a sucide attack augurs ill. Despite massive military and security apparatus deployed in Jammu and Kashmir, no one had any clue that a suicide bombing was in the[Read More…]

by 24/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Sultan

A Personal Testimony of Kashmiriyat

When Kashmiris are being attacked across India, let me telly you a story about Kashmiriyat. Last summer I was in Kashmir with my family. We were coming back from Sonamarg. The road to Sonamarg goes through Zojila Pass, one of the highest motorable road in the world. It’s a desert land for dozens of kilometers. Even in summer the temperature[Read More…]

by 23/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir, Editor's Picks
Kashmir Situation – Some Views from South India

Kashmir Situation – Some Views from South India

There are two significant opinions on Kashmir situation expressed by two eminent personalities from Chennai whose opinion matters in the aftermath of the Phulwama terror attack on February 14 that killed 42 security personals, gives a southern perspective to the Kashmir tangle. The first comment came from actor-turned-politician, Kamal Haasan who when  asked to comment on the Pulwama suicide attack[Read More…]

by 23/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Pulwama: A Present Moment in the Longer Kashmir Story

Pulwama: A Present Moment in the Longer Kashmir Story

While the bodies of the 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troops who died in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir on Valentine’s Day are only just now being laid to rest, unrest prevails throughout the Indian subcontinent in the wake of the deadliest attack on Indian security forces in the world’s hottest nuclear flashpoint in 30 years. Sabers[Read More…]

by 23/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
The Best Tribute to the Slain is the Solution of Conflict

The Best Tribute to the Slain is the Solution of Conflict

“Death of a militant, civilian or an army personal is a human loss. It should never be celebrated because nothing can be achieved through it. It only desolate a house, widow a woman and orphan many children. So to celebrate this occasion is never a human quality.” The Lethpora Pulwama attack in Kashmir on the CRPF convoy might have shocked[Read More…]

by 21/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir, a bleeding tragedy!

Kashmir, a bleeding tragedy!

(Due to the misfortune of Kashmiris, the two neighbours have converted the place into a bleeding “Paradise”!) Historically Kashmir has been known as the “Paradise on Earth” because of its natural beauty. Unfortunately, for past some time there has been so much violence and blood shed that it is turning into a bleeding paradise. The recent attack on a CRPF[Read More…]

by 21/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Back to Square One?

Kashmir: Back to Square One?

The terror attack on the CRPF convoy in Pulwama (Jammu and Kashmir), which killed dozens of soldiers of the paramilitary forces, sent shock waves across the country and the world.  The attack came in a crucial time of political uncertainty in J&K, the forthcoming general elections in India, and the meetings planned in connection with the opening of Kartarpur corridor[Read More…]

by 16/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Dismembering the Maharaja’s Creation!

Kashmir: Dismembering the Maharaja’s Creation!

(The setting up of a third territorial division in the erstwhile State of J & K created by Maharaja Gulab Singhmay result in its finaldismemberment!) For past sometime there has been demand of some people for converting Ladakh into a union territory and the Jammu people too have sometimes raised a similar demand. The recent order creating Ladakh as a[Read More…]

by 14/02/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir and the Politics of Punishment

Kashmir and the Politics of Punishment

With the brutal ‘drawing and quartering’ of the domestic servant Robert-François Damiens, who attempted the assassination of King Louis XV of France in 1757, to ‘make the amende honorable before the main door of the Church of France’ started the slow disappearance of torture as a public spectacle. According to the then punishment code, the flesh from Damiens’ breasts, arms,[Read More…]

by 12/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Impact of Unrest in Kashmir Tourism Industry and Finding  Possible Solutions in Between

Impact of Unrest in Kashmir Tourism Industry and Finding  Possible Solutions in Between

This valley of mountains and forests has been the source of attraction for tourists all over the world. The rush of tourists both foreign and domestic has reduced to a great extent because of total unrest here. This chaos and confusion has hit us hard. This adorable piece of land, popularly known as “heaven on earth” has been stuck in[Read More…]

by 10/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Nature Isolates The Kashmir Valley!

Nature Isolates The Kashmir Valley!

(The continuous blockade of the National Highway linking Kashmir with the rest of the world in spite of the best efforts of the Border Roads Organization calls for an alternate link) The continuous landslides taking away portions of the road has virtually cut off Kashmir by surface from the outside world. The tragedy is that it is the only link[Read More…]

by 07/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Why UN supervised referendum couldn’t be held in J&K?

Why UN supervised referendum couldn’t be held in J&K?

[Flipside of Sheikh Abdullah’s narrative] Sheikh M Abdullah who was key political figure from Kashmir in the whole story has written that it was Pakistani authorities in UN that, on many occasions, when the solution to Kashmir-issue was “almost finalised” or “within reach”, stumbled which, to him, seemed their “intellectual bankruptcy” or “politicking”. In support of his contention, he refers[Read More…]

by 06/02/2019 3 comments Kashmir
Dr Shah Faisal and the Political space in JK

Dr Shah Faisal and the Political space in JK

Co-Written by Masood Ali Mir & Zahoor Ahmad Mir Dr Shah Faisal has resigned, he has resigned from the top most post and a dream job of millions of Indians. From Home Ministry to Governor to common masses every one is in a kind of shock over his decision of resignation. Dr Faisal has now joined politics, although he has[Read More…]

by 06/02/2019 2 comments Kashmir
Dialogue – The best way to Resolve the Kashmir Issue

Dialogue – The best way to Resolve the Kashmir Issue

Kashmir is a zone of chaos, a highest militarised zone in the world.Kashmir is a bone of fight between the two Nuclear Countries. The independence of India and Pakistan gave the birth to conflicts, chaos, and hatred. The two independent dominions of Pakistan and India were born on 14th and 15th of August respectively. Princely states were a peculiar issue,[Read More…]

by 05/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Historical Review of JK Land Reform Laws: (From 1887-1976)………Part II

Historical Review of JK Land Reform Laws: (From 1887-1976)………Part II

In spite of the fact that the Dogra Ruler in 1933 fulfilling “its obligations to its own Muslim subjects” 19 conferred proprietary rights upon the occupancy hereditary cultivators, a good chunk of land still continued to be under the iron grip of Jagirdari & Chakdari systems, and the tenants-at-will of different categories of the landlords continued to be at their[Read More…]

by 01/02/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Historical Review of JK Land Reform Laws: (From 1887-1976)………Part I

Historical Review of JK Land Reform Laws: (From 1887-1976)………Part I

J&K in the past was predominantly agricultural State. Immediately before 1947, near to 90% of its population lived in villages & depended on agriculture. Under Dogra Rule, “in Kashmir the land [belonged] to the Ruler, the cultivators [were] his servants”. 1 In Jammu, proprietorship in lands was claimed by the Dogra monarchs as hereditary, in Ladakh & Batistan it was[Read More…]

by 31/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Shah Faesal: A Forged Journey

Shah Faesal: A Forged Journey

Shah Faesal’s journey from an overwhelming personal tragedy to excellence in his career is both amazing and awe-inspiring. At 19, his father, a government teacher who was very popular locally, was murdered by the hitherto unknown militants because of his refusal to provide them shelter, according to a 2010 newspaper report quoting his mother Mubeena Begum. Such a calamity could’ve[Read More…]

by 31/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
The Weather Forecast

The Weather Forecast

The present Director of the Srinagar Met Office, Sonam Lotus, has made people very much weather conscious by his useful forecasts during last few years!)   Sonam Lotus These days’ people have become very conscious of the weather forecasts thanks to Mr. Sonam Lotus, the present Director of the Srinagar Met Office. In earlier times people were not very much[Read More…]

by 31/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
How New Delhi Has Been Looking At Kashmir

How New Delhi Has Been Looking At Kashmir

Sometimes meeting an embittered politician, enables one to peep into a domain of politics that otherwise remains obscure. Moreover, on occasions sharing experiences about such meetings helps in analysing the games behind popping up of new characters like mushrooms during rains with alternative narratives for fortifying the ‘hegemonic discourses’ at the time of elections in the State. Moreit also helps[Read More…]

by 29/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Gaw Kadal Massacre: A Turning Point

Gaw Kadal Massacre: A Turning Point

The word massacre denotes a form of collective action that destroys the defenceless individuals. In European middle ages, the word has been used in reference to animals. There is a difference between massacre and genocide. Every massacre is not a genocide, a genocide is primarily composed of one or more massacres. There are many categories of massacre like local (face[Read More…]

by 23/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The undependable “Life Line”!

The undependable “Life Line”!

The only surface access to Kashmir from the outside world is becoming totally undependable due to the crumbling strata through which it passes From the ancient times Kashmir has been known as a landlocked country situated in the heart of the Himalaya. Mountains have been taken as natural guardians which let the country remain unmolested for a long time. The[Read More…]

by 17/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Legazy of Azaadi: The History of Kashmir Revolution

The Legazy of Azaadi: The History of Kashmir Revolution

“Better to die fighting for freedom then be a prisoner all the days of your life”. – Bob Marley From my birth, I have always learnt that Kashmir is the heaven of the world after it was quoted by Jahangir as “Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin asto”. Later, many British rulers trespassed Kashmir and Maxmillar[Read More…]

by 16/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Professional conspiracies & cartels in Kashmir

Professional conspiracies & cartels in Kashmir

More than a century ago, George Bernard Shaw in his famous 1906 play The Doctor’s Dilemma has said “all professions are a conspiracy against laity”. Conspiracies are hatched & executed in groups, albeit the idea is often brainchild of a master kingpin of that group who resembles “suspense boss” of the Bollywood movies. Conspiracies are committed on back of the[Read More…]

by 14/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s New Ambassadors

Kashmir’s New Ambassadors

Like many others in my tribe; opinion writers and columnists, guided by screaming headlines I am also oblivious to the urges and aspirations of our youth. That there is a strong undercurrent in a whole generation of them to use music, arts, literature, theatre and modern mediums like Instagram and YouTube for telling their stories, and articulating their pain and[Read More…]

by 14/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Shah Faesal Reclaiming Electoral Politics

Shah Faesal Reclaiming Electoral Politics

Dr Shah Faesal’s reclaiming a new electoral politics after resigning from civil services in India’s Kashmir neither seems vapid nor promising at the moment.The prominent youth icon shot to fame when he topped the Indian Civil Services (IAS) in 2010. He keeps every body guessing and amid his much talked about resignation from the prestigious civil services a few days[Read More…]

by 12/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Why is Mehbooba Mufti apologizing people of Kashmir?

Why is Mehbooba Mufti apologizing people of Kashmir?

Why is she nowadays visiting the militant families and apologizing the people for her past deeds and remarks? Why is she terming the slain militants as martyrs? Is it that she wanted the support of people to repeat her previous activities or the fulfillment of leftover dreams of her father? As the assembly elections of 2019 are around the corner,[Read More…]

by 11/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Mr.  IAS What Next?

Mr.  IAS What Next?

                      Till 2010 Shah Faesal was not a well known figure in Kashmir but after cracking the India’s top most civil service examination held under UPSC (IAS) that too with a top position gave him a good reputation in Kashmir as well as in India and sooner was considered as an inspiration for the youth. Indian politicians and other[Read More…]

by 10/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Doctrine of State

The Doctrine of State

(The Doctrine of State cannot override the Doctrine of Human Rights!) Mr Yashwant Sinha former Foreign Minister in an interview on NDTV disclosed that a senior Government Officer had informed him that Delhi is following the “Doctrine of State” in Kashmir. According to him, as part of this doctrine the government is going all out in elimination of any rebellion[Read More…]

by 10/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir, the Nemesis!

Kashmir, the Nemesis!

Kashmir has been continuously ravaged by many outside forces for more than four centuries. While the barbarity and oppression has failed to dampen our unique spirit of survival, it has proved a nemesis for all the oppressors! Dictionary defines nemesis as, “The nemesis of a person or thing is a situation, event or a person which causes them to be[Read More…]

by 03/01/2019 1 comment Kashmir
Awards And Politics

Awards And Politics

More than a decade back, sitting in a newspaper office, a fellow writer Ashraf Sahil suggested the idea of instituting of the ‘private awards’ in Kashmir for literature. Comparing the reports and writings of journalists of Kashmir, works of some writers with the literary works of Barbara Harlow, he suggested instituting of annual awards for best journalists, fiction writers, novelists[Read More…]

by 02/01/2019 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
CHOWKIPUR, INDIA, - SEPTEMBER 18: Boys study by lantern light in a house L-R: (children closest to camera) Nitish Suraj (12), Ashish Choudhary (10), Baijunath Paswan (7) in Chowkipur India on September 18, 2015. Chowkipur is a village 60 KM from Patna that has no electricity. (Photo by Simon de Trey-White for the Washington Post)

Bandipora Village has no Electricity 71 years after India’s Independence

While government scheme Deen Dayal Yojana has a vision to provide continuous power supply to rural areas, Wevan a small village in Bandipora District of Northern Kashmir, is still stuck in dark ages. Wevan, a small village on the foothills of a rocky hill in Bandipora district, of North Kashmir is without electricity eventhouth it is 71 years since India[Read More…]

by 31/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Need For Peace Process

Kashmir: Need For Peace Process

A former northern army commander has twice over recently observed that the military’s operational success in counter insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has not been taken advantage of politically. He was voicing the army’s longstanding position that talks need to proceed abreast with operations to culminate in a return of peace. In the army’s doctrinal view, counter insurgency operations[Read More…]

by 30/12/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: The Sacrilege And The Turmoil

Kashmir: The Sacrilege And The Turmoil

In 1963, an act of serious sacrilege plunged Kashmir into grief and fury never witnessed before. As people in Srinagar woke up to an icy Friday morning on 27 December corresponding to the 7th day of Chilai Kalan, the 40-day long harshest period of Kashmir winter, a shocking news spread like wildfire across the city. The Moi-e-Muqqadas (strand of holy[Read More…]

by 27/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Hajin Man, Father of 6, Booked under PSA for the 10th time, Shifted to Kotbalwal Jail

Hajin Man, Father of 6, Booked under PSA for the 10th time, Shifted to Kotbalwal Jail

Authorities on Thursday, booked Father of 6 Daughters, of Hajin Bandipora under Stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) for 10th time in a row for his alleged involvement in Anti National Activities. Parray, resident of Hajin Bandipora, is district president of Muslim League led by Masrat Alam Bhat had been arrested in August 2015 for his alleged involvement in anti Govt[Read More…]

by 21/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Human Rights, Kashmir
Massacres in Kashmir: A Revision of 2018

Massacres in Kashmir: A Revision of 2018

Kashmir and its history is replete with intimate massacres. These massacres were not witnessed after the birth of nation states who drafted the independent nation into disputed territory. These massacres were also witnessed during Mughal rule, Afghan rule, Sikh as well as in Dogra rule. In the year 1947, when one side the sub-continent of India got their independence from[Read More…]

by 21/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Identity Formation in the Kashmir Valley: An Overview

Identity Formation in the Kashmir Valley: An Overview

 Identity is a concept for understanding and learning about social conflicts. The issue of Muslim identity in the Kashmir conflict became a concern, thereby turning potentially negotiable issues into intractable conflicts centered on conflicting groups’ self-image and religion. A stalemate has followed because of the perception that the identity of a Kashmiri Muslim is non-negotiable. Identities are complex, historically bound[Read More…]

by 21/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: End the senseless violence!

Kashmir: End the senseless violence!

(Violence in any form with any motive can never solve a problem. Unless the senseless violence from all sides is ended soon, it will engulf the entire region resulting in an Armageddon!) The recent virtual massacre of the civilians in Pulwama has been likened to the massacre in Jalianwala Bagh during the British rule in India by a former judge[Read More…]

by 20/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Prices And Fares: A Peep Into Old Kashmir

Prices And Fares: A Peep Into Old Kashmir

During our childhood, when elders at home talked about prices of essential commodities prevalent during their own childhood that they referred to as prone zamane (old times), our reaction would be of disbelief. Although their prone zamane was only 40 or 50 years backwards in time but the stories they told would bring it into our mind as an ancient[Read More…]

by 18/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Finding ‘solace in arms’, Teenage Militant Mudasir shattered dreams of his poor family

Finding ‘solace in arms’, Teenage Militant Mudasir shattered dreams of his poor family

On 5th December, a daunting picture went Viral on Social Media in which 14 year old Cute Boy holding an AK-47 in one hand and and Knife in another. Mudasir a resident of Khankah Mohalla of Hajin town along with 16 year old Saqib Bilal had gone missing from home on 31 August this year after an encounter took place[Read More…]

by 16/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Saima wife of slain civilian Abid Hussain Lone of Karimabad village of Pulwama on Saturday, December 15, 2018. Pic: Shahid Mushtaq

Strike, lockdown shut Kashmir over civilian, militant killings

A complete shutdown was observed across Kashmir valley on Sunday to mourn the civilian and militant killings in Sirnoo village of Pulwama district of south Kashmir on Saturday . All shops and other business establishments were closed in the Valley while public transport was off the road. Restrictions were imposed by the authorities in parts of Srinagar and Section 144[Read More…]

by 16/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Curfewed Night

The Curfewed Night

The Curfewed Night by Basharat Peer is a novel read of its kind. It provides an intimate account of life in the 1990’s when insurgency and counter-insurgency engulfed the valley. The author, through his personal experiences, highlights the agonies of being born and living in a conflict situation like Kashmir. Most of the narratives about Kashmir have been centered on[Read More…]

by 14/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Tourism loses priority!

Kashmir: Tourism loses priority!

(In spite of tall claims from various politicians and the government functionaries about Tourism being the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, the sector seems to have lost government’s priority!) Kashmir has been a well-known Tourist destination throughout our history. In earlier times, great travelers used to visit the valley and describe its beauty in their travelogues and other writings. Before partition[Read More…]

by 13/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Saga of J & K Bank: When The Killers Turn Saviours

The Saga of J & K Bank: When The Killers Turn Saviours

Governor Malik’s decision to classify J&K Bank as a Public sector undertaking (PSU) should be seen in the broader scheme of Indian efforts to strengthen the tools of occupation which aim at controlling economic resources besides political, military & cultural control of the occupied. Before commenting on the specific act of J&K Bank, it needs to be stated that Under[Read More…]

by 08/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
J&K Power projects: Story of exploitation, plunder & surrender

J&K Power projects: Story of exploitation, plunder & surrender

Pre-View: State of J & K is most probably only piece of land on the world map that despite being profusely rich in many resources of self-reliance & self-satisfaction is not, & has not been, enabled to reap their benefit to its full advantage. Huge hydroelectric power resources of the State have not been exploited by the government-politicians & State-administration[Read More…]

by 07/12/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Plebiscite, Kashmir And Sher-i-Kashmir

Plebiscite, Kashmir And Sher-i-Kashmir

5 December is the birth anniversary of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, a mass leader who dominated the politics of Kashmir for over half a century before passing away in 1982. For 22 years between his ouster as Prime Minister in 1953 and return as Chief Minister in 1975, he remained a dominant symbol of the popular demand for UN-mandated plebiscite in[Read More…]

by 05/12/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Pellet Horror In Kashmir

Pellet Horror In Kashmir

Indian in Jammu and Kashmir is blinding Kashmiris unabated with each passing day. The pellet horror which started in the year 2016 is still continuing with no end in sight in near future. Small children, young and old and women have become the victims of this pellet horror. Hiba Nisar, 20 month old child, a resident of Shopian is a[Read More…]

by 03/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Archival evidence establishing change in place names of Shopore, Pantchhokh and Munshi Bagh.

Changing Place Names in Kashmir

On 24 October 2018, the State Government inaugurated in Srinagar a ‘library building’ named after the third generation Dogra ruler, Pratap Singh, whose memory in Kashmir only evokes painful feelings of oppression. On psychological plain, the development could be read as a statement to emphasize that theoretically the Dogra regime (1846-1947) might have since ended but its spirit still rules[Read More…]

by 03/12/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Political Chameleons!

Kashmir’s Political Chameleons!

(Many of Kashmir’s politicians have been acting like chameleons, changing their ideologies and convictions like the colours of these lizards) During the last seventy years Kashmir has given birth to a class of politicians who can be called the political “Chameleons”. They have been changing their colours with every political upheaval and now these have turned into virtual “Dinosaurs” destroying[Read More…]

by 29/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Needs Solution not Suppression

Kashmir Needs Solution not Suppression

Co-Written by Syed Mujtaba & Mirza jahanzeb Since 1989, the People of Jammu and Kashmir were killed, tortured, humiliated, and disappeared. Thousands of the people were killed due to cycle of violence prevalent in Jammu and Kashmir. Thousands of the people became permanently disabled due to ongoing circles of violence. Many are those who lost their beloved children, daughters, sisters,[Read More…]

by 28/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Dissolving J & K Assembly is Unconstitutonal

Dissolving J & K Assembly is Unconstitutonal

The unconstitutional act of the governor of Jammu and Kashmir in disallowing political parties to explore formation of a new government reflect that the Modi government is not interested in resolving the Kashmir issue, rather, it would like to use the sentiments of ‘nationalism’ during the elections. It is like playing with fire where a historical grievance of a community[Read More…]

by 23/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Winter Tourism In Kashmir

Winter Tourism In Kashmir

(Kashmir has the highest potential for the development of Winter Tourism if proper facilities are provided. We could easily have half a dozen ski-resorts!) In mid-eighties, one had the opportunity of flying in a helicopter with a European ski expert over the snow areas of entire Kashmir valley. He had remarked that Kashmir has unlimited “White Gold”. The oil reserves[Read More…]

by 22/11/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Increasing Road Accidents in Kashmir : Rules and Laws Need Overhaul

Increasing Road Accidents in Kashmir : Rules and Laws Need Overhaul

USING THE INK OF MY TEARS I WROTE TO YOU ,THE ONE WITH GOLDEN ATTIRE. These verses are a fair display of our contemporary atmosphere in Kashmir. With the growing number of vehicles, roads in Kashmir are spattered with blood as accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities have been mounting over the years. No doubt, road accidents are in high[Read More…]

by 20/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Right to Self Determination of Kashmiris: An obligation for All

Right to Self Determination of Kashmiris: An obligation for All

According to the white paper on Jammu & Kashmir published by the government of India early in 1948, Government of India made it clear that they would regard “Instrument of accession” as purely provisional until such time as the will of the people of the state be ascertained. This instrument of accession was signed under the Indian Independence act 1947, which[Read More…]

by 18/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s plural ethos and communal harmony

Kashmir’s plural ethos and communal harmony

Peace is the foundation of prosperity among the nation states of the world and harmony forms the basic foundation of that enterprise.Man is the wonderful creation of God with an inherent sense of metaphysical and worldly belongings. The savage societies of the pre-historic times without any order and hierarchy of social organisation subsequently in the long timeframe paved way for[Read More…]

by 18/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Shrinking Political Space In Kashmir!

Shrinking Political Space In Kashmir!

(For last few years the political space in Kashmir has been gradually made to shrink and now even the so called “mainstream” is being squeezed out!) Recently Omar Abdullah in an interview said that the political space for main stream parties has shrunk in Kashmir. One could ask him whether there ever was real political space in Kashmir any time[Read More…]

by 15/11/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Books Knock-Down The “Dominant Discourses”, The Joy of Re-readings

Books Knock-Down The “Dominant Discourses”, The Joy of Re-readings

In a scenario, when politics in our state has become crazy, the ‘hegemonic discourses’ have the sway, and a big lie projected as truth is accepted, restlessness is a natural corollary. To fight this restlessness instead of reading new books on Kashmir by authors published by big houses in India,- of course, tutored, of late, I have started re-reading books[Read More…]

by 14/11/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Dr. Iqbal: Founder of Kashmir Freedom Struggle

Dr. Iqbal: Founder of Kashmir Freedom Struggle

  A momentous day in the life of a leader, writer or poet is when he sees his ideas translated into reality. Iqbal did not live up to the day when his dream of a separate nation for Muslims of South Asia became a reality on 14 August 1947. He was not a part of the galaxy of leaders of[Read More…]

by 09/11/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Fragile Power System

Kashmir: Fragile Power System

  (Apart from various perennial problems relating to demand and supply, the very system of transmitting and supplying power is extremely fragile) The recent power break down in the valley reportedly resulting from the collapse of a high voltage transmission tower caused by a foot or so of unusually heavy and untimely snowfall resulted in a power outage throughout the[Read More…]

by 08/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Jammu and Kashmir: A Macabre Drama

Jammu and Kashmir: A Macabre Drama

The new ‘political’ Governor of J&K, Satya Pal Malik stepped into a volatile “Disturbed Area” at a testing and disturbing time. He is not the first to do so. However, he has in this short time several firsts to his credit. He did assure Kashmiris that under his watch there will be no underhand move to install a goverment. He[Read More…]

by 06/11/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kanger: Traditional pride of Kashmir

Kanger: Traditional pride of Kashmir

Kangri or Kangdhi , or Kanger in common Kashmiri parlance, is an indispensable part of socio-cultural milieu of Kashmir. All Kashmiris, cutting across gender, creed & age use & “consider it indispensable in the cold season”. Its cultural importance can be gauged from a Kashmiri saying: what Laila was to Mujnoon’s heart (legendary lovers), Kanger is to a Kashmiri. Kanger[Read More…]

by 06/11/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Two Memoirs That Tell Kashmir Story

Two Memoirs That Tell Kashmir Story

Two sons did an excellent job! Both merit credit for doing a job that many other children placed in similar situations have chosen to ignore. Fathers of the two from ab initio were proactively involved in the struggle for ending the autocratic rule in the state. For their centrality in the struggle and proximity to the top leadership, the two[Read More…]

by 06/11/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Prosperity of Trigger

The Prosperity of Trigger

With the trigger prospering unabatedly without any let off, the autumn in Kashmir is characteristically more auburn, crimsoned and of course paler and tawny russet than before, both the perspiration from sky as well as shedding of the human blood – a deluge of death continues in free style. Death looks a happy go hunting, plucking of the buds, turning[Read More…]

by 30/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Chidambaram Has A Point

Chidambaram Has A Point

On Saturday, Oct27, 2018, there was a graveyard silence outside, and everything is in mourning over spurt of killings during the autumn-  fifty youth killed in a month. In this weird scenario the moment I sat on my desk to write a weekly column Ispotted an old book titled ‘The Governor Sage or Saboteur’ on a shelf in my small[Read More…]

by 29/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Governor’s revelation over favouritism in J&K Bank appointments

Governor’s revelation over favouritism in J&K Bank appointments

Newly appointed governor of Jammu and Kashmir Satya Pal Malik on his interview with Times Now revelled many things including the Major Scam in Jammu and Kashmir Bank. Governor Malik in an interview with Navinka of Times now said that stone pelters will no longer be given amnesty, he also said that stone pelting saw an increase during the BJP-PDP[Read More…]

by 28/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Market on Jhelum in olden times

Remembering autumns when there would be no bloodbaths

The Sun that like grand artist excited us when we would be still in our bed now stopped to be a painter for us. In wee hours, rising from behind the Zabarwan hillock, it now did not enter our bedroom through the latticed windows, to create those mesmerizing magical floral and geometrical images on the walls daubed with white clay[Read More…]

by 28/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Harps of Kashmir Bleed!

Harps of Kashmir Bleed!

O Mother, do not cry
For I have died but the battle stays
My death is not the full stop
It’s just a question which you must ask!

by 27/10/2018 1 comment Arts/Literature, Kashmir
Between black and white, more than 50 shades of gray

Between black and white, more than 50 shades of gray

It just takes a humane heart to condemn, raise voice or feel empathetic with regard to the pain and suffering experienced by the people of Kashmir since ages, more specifically the mayhem that occurred quite recently in Kulgam Kashmir where 7 civilians lost their lives and around 50 were injured. It is almost impossible to express the pain and loss[Read More…]

by 26/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
My Tryst with Kashmir and What it Means to Me

My Tryst with Kashmir and What it Means to Me

News of violence and unrest coming from any part of the country – nay, the world – is disturbing. All the more so if it lasts and continues over long periods of time. And yet there are parts of the country that are special in a special way, and such news coming from there has a qualitatively altogether different effect[Read More…]

by 25/10/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: The Perennial Power Problem!

Kashmir: The Perennial Power Problem!

  (The PDD has been chasing the PPP for a longtime but the current year’s winter may see the climax of the problem!) No doubt because of our run of the river schemes we have extreme shortage due to low water level in winter yet we are unable to cope even though we have enough power available in the market[Read More…]

by 25/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Understanding Kashmir imbroglio through historical narratives

Understanding Kashmir imbroglio through historical narratives

   History is replete with chronicles of conflicts since the dawn of the human civilization.Although, the scale and intensity of these conflicts can be variable,yet going through the narratives  and counter-narratives of the past,these conflicts ultimately paved way for the inquisitive enquiries and resolutions from the respective parties to the conflict in order to bridge the loopholes for the settlement[Read More…]

by 23/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Srinagrites Are Not ‘Ghetto People’

Srinagrites Are Not ‘Ghetto People’

Honestly, they ‘have been more sinned against than sinning.’ Distraught at the plight of a million people with bright minds and deft hands this Shakespearean quote knocked my mind while walking through the streets, lanes, and bylanes of the heart of Srinagar city. None but the people they catapulted to power after big struggle and sacrifices have betrayed them and[Read More…]

by 22/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Myth of Kashyap Rishi: Origin of valley of Kashmir

Myth of Kashyap Rishi: Origin of valley of Kashmir

Mythical or folklore tales have been a part of all ancient societies & communities. Such stories are still told verbally & even otherwise in writings, songs, paintings, etc, in many societies & communities to keep up their old traditions of culture & art. Romans had richest mythical history, so had Chinese & Arabs. But if you look at any of these[Read More…]

by 19/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The other side of 35-A!

The other side of 35-A!

(Repealing of Article 35-A creates an apprehension among Kashmiris of being swept away by the rich from the mainland. On the contrary, Kashmir may turn into something which no one could have imagined!) The controversy regarding the article 35-A has now been in the news for sometime. The shut downs called by various organizations to show the resentment of the[Read More…]

by 18/10/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Shuffling the Administration

Kashmir: Shuffling the Administration

(For past some time the officers in the state administration are being shuffled like a pack of cards which renders them ineffective) Apart from various political and security issues, the State of Jammu & Kashmir is bedevilled by lack of governance and unresponsive administration. Both the issuers emanate from the virtual absence of accountability which is a direct offshoot of[Read More…]

by 11/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmiri Started Writing Their Story

Kashmiri Started Writing Their Story

Like many other bibliophiles, the iconic bookstore, ‘The Kashmir Bookshop’ on the Residency Road had also become my haunt. Similar to some morning visitors to the India Coffee House, I also had become an avid dust jacket reader inside the bookshop and had developed the habit of flaunting my knowledge about books over a cup of hot coffee. The bookshop[Read More…]

by 08/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Sonawar: The Story Of An Uptown Quarter

Sonawar: The Story Of An Uptown Quarter

Shortly before the termination of his rule in 1947, Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Hindu ruler of Kashmir, was known to have toyed with the idea of converting Sonawar, a quarter of uptown Srinagar, into a lake to accord a unique peculiarity to his palace, Talay Manzil (Abode of Fortune) of sitting between two lakes, the other being the famed[Read More…]

by 06/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s flags: A historical overview

Kashmir’s flags: A historical overview

Flag is not a mere piece of fabric that flutters about in the breeze. It represents the feelings & ideals of the people for that for which it has been created & thus stands for. The first Kashmir flag was adopted by the first largest political party of J&K Muslims, All J & K Muslim Conference, which was formed in[Read More…]

by 06/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Gandhiji’s Only Kashmir Yatra That Set The Stage For India In Kashmir

Gandhiji’s Only Kashmir Yatra That Set The Stage For India In Kashmir

Acting on the recommendation of Mountbatten, the British Government on 3rd June, 1947, announced its plan of partition of India into two Dominions of India & Pakistan. The Indian Independence Act, 1947 enacted by the British on 18th July 1947 gave legal recognition to the creation of the two Dominions. Under the Act, British suzerainty over the provinces including 584[Read More…]

by 03/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s  Tryst with Ballot

Kashmir’s  Tryst with Ballot

  Some days, back on social media network Facebook, someone posted a black and white photograph of a handsome turbaned man draped in an up-button black coat. The picture looked straight into the eyes of the surfers telling terrifying tales of suppression of the yester years. It had hundreds of likes and dozens of shares.It generated scores of euphoric and[Read More…]

by 01/10/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir, the “Final” solution!

Kashmir, the “Final” solution!

(Reportedly, Prime Minister Modi is going to announce the “Final” solution of the Kashmir problem before 2019 elections!) Recently there was a news report that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is going to announce the “Final” solution of the Kashmir problem very soon. In fact, the Eurasian Times on September 12 carried an item titled, “PM Modi will divide Kashmir in[Read More…]

by 27/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
‘Mahatma Gandhi’ In Kashmir Narrative

‘Mahatma Gandhi’ In Kashmir Narrative

  Few days back another voluminous biography was added to grand list of biographies on Mahatma Gandhi.Seventy years after the British sailed across the Indian Ocean the stories of the two protagonists of the India’s independence movement Mahatma Gandhi and Quaid Azam  Jinnah continue to engage scholars and biographers. Notwithstanding, the two charismatic leaders of the subcontinent  largely forgotten by[Read More…]

by 25/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Reality & falsity of proverbial accusations against Kashmiris

Reality & falsity of proverbial accusations against Kashmiris

There is a Persian distich “agar kahat ul rijal uftad, azehan uns kamgiri yake  afghan , doyum kamboh, soyam badzaat kashmiri”:   (translation: although there is no dearth of men to be there in the world, yet never cultivate acquaintances with three kinds of people: (1) Afghan, (2) Kamboh & (3) Badzaat Kashmiri) This Persian couplet has, from time immemorial, been associated with the name of[Read More…]

by 24/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Wedlocks in Kashmir’s landscape

Wedlocks in Kashmir’s landscape

Marriage is a sacred institution in the human societies.Down the passing phases of time,the human beings have tied knots of man and woman in pairs to continue the order of the universe.God created human being in pairs and created humans out of those predecessors.This is even today the order of the nature and will remain so forever. Marriage is a[Read More…]

by 23/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Flood Prevention Not Preparedness!

Kashmir: Flood Prevention Not Preparedness!

(Instead of wasting time in mock drills to test the flood preparedness, the government should get down earnestly to implement urgent measures for flood prevention) Recently there was a high level meeting to discuss the flood preparedness and it was decided that mock drills would be conducted to test the flood preparedness. In fact a tented colony to house the[Read More…]

by 20/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Who Are The Stone Pelters Of Kashmir?

Who Are The Stone Pelters Of Kashmir?

For over 70 years, unarmed Kashmiris, including men, women, school-going boys and girls and aged people have continued to witness mental, psychological as well as physical humiliation and torture. Every day, there are incidents of gashing of eyes, use of ever-new methods of persecution during unending curfews,  torching of their villages along with crops and destruction of their business as[Read More…]

by 20/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Political Uncertainty, the main problem!

Kashmir: Political Uncertainty, the main problem!

(Lack of accountability, lopsided governance, dishonesty and corruption in every field stem from the basic malaise which is the perennial political uncertainty) During last 70 years or so Kashmir has off and on faced one or the other turmoil. In fact, it has seen four wars between its neighbours. There have been some periods of apparent calm but the uncertainty[Read More…]

by 13/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The scourge of internet  gagging  in Kashmir

The scourge of internet  gagging  in Kashmir

The world of today is altogether in contradiction to the times of the previous ages. Technology has taken the global order by a major revolutionary storm and made the world a knowledge driven global network. Internet forms the mainstay of the current times and is in fact a boon companion of man in the modern times. Internet is the constitutive[Read More…]

by 10/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
A newspaper page from 1980s about the movies then on display in various cinema halls of Kashmir

Kashmir’s Celluloid Years

The beginning and the end of cinema halls in Kashmir is linked with the turmoil it has witnessed for about nine decades now. During the early 1930s, when Kashmir was passing through an uncertain situation following the massacre of about two dozen unarmed civilians on 13 July 1931 and the consequent public revolt against an autocratic rule, a Punjabi speaking[Read More…]

Article 35-A: Not a Ripe Time to Breach an Article of Faith and Trust

Article 35-A: Not a Ripe Time to Breach an Article of Faith and Trust

The “Carte Blanche” of Jammu and Kashmir legislative Assembly-Article 35-A was incorporated in the Constitution of India by presidents order in 1954. The president’s order provision is under the Article 370 (1)(d) of Indian constitution. This article allows the president of India to make certain “exceptions and modification” to the constitution for the welfare of residents of Jammu and Kashmir.[Read More…]

by 07/09/2018 2 comments Kashmir
UN And Battle Over Kashmir

UN And Battle Over Kashmir

For the past seventy years the war of words, on the floor of the United Nation’s Security Council on the Kashmir Dispute, has been a routine with India and Pakistan. It, in fact, began, on 30 December 1947, when New Delhi sent a cable to the Security Council, through its representative at UN. The cable, making a complaint under Article[Read More…]

by 03/09/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Article 35(A): The Evolution of A Protection

Article 35(A): The Evolution of A Protection

Any argument against Article 35-A of the Constitution of India in isolation from the political and social conditions in which partition of India, accession of JK with India took place and in which Orders and Notifications of 1927 and 1932 were issued by the then Ruler of JK Maharaja Hari Singh is patently bound to lead to wrong conclusions about[Read More…]

by 02/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Is There No Solution For Kashmir Problem?

Is There No Solution For Kashmir Problem?

Is there really no solution to Kashmir problem? Are we all going to face this Democratic Hitlerism for generations? Every morning I wake up I get to know someone has been killed, someone arrested, some innocent school going kids losing their eyesight for something that they don’t even know. I am feared; if I go outside I might not come[Read More…]

by 02/09/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Of Article 35-A and looming crisis in Kashmir

Of Article 35-A and looming crisis in Kashmir

 India is the confluence of 29 states and 7 Union territories, with a distinct demography, language, culture, lifestyle, etc. Jammu and Kashmir forms the part of the northern portion of the country with the privilege of the special status state among the whole gamut of states. Constitution as the basic guide of principles gives rights to all the people of[Read More…]

by 22/08/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Deceitful Nehru V/S Pragmatic Vajpayee

Kashmir: Deceitful Nehru V/S Pragmatic Vajpayee

In all literature; history, memoirs, and travelogues, Kashmir is described as a country.Notwithstanding, being ruled by  Moguls, Durranis, and Sikhs through their governors for exacting taxes to the extent of famishing people, it continued to be known as   a country.It retained, this title even after India and Pakistan were born as an independent dominions.For the first time, it lost this[Read More…]

by 21/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Cup of “Poison”!

The Cup of “Poison”!

(The cup of poison called “Hemlock” which Socrates was forced to drink has always turned out to be the cup of the “Water of Life” for the mainstream politicians of Kashmir!) The former Chief Minister after losing the seat of power by sudden and unannounced withdrawal of support by BJP to her coalition government declared that the initial alliance with[Read More…]

by 17/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
What led to removal of SMA on 9th August, 1953?

What led to removal of SMA on 9th August, 1953?

A lot has been written about 9/8/1953 removal of Sheikh M. Abdullah (for brevity, SMA) from chair of State PM. In spite of that, more curiosity stills fills many minds among pro-n-anti-SMA to know why he, after helping India, internally as well as externally, in taking JK, was considered threat to India which led to his unceremonious dismissal from PM-ship[Read More…]

by 17/08/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The ‘Violence of Interpretations’ And Kashmir Problem

The ‘Violence of Interpretations’ And Kashmir Problem

We have a story, with a beginning, middle and end- but it is the end that is confounded by “the others,” who have their ‘meal tickets in the pursuit.’For confusing the end, they not only collaborate with the coercive forces in strengthening the ‘hegemonic discourse’ but also indulge in what academic’ describe as the ‘violence of   hermeneutics.’ The ‘others’ that[Read More…]

by 14/08/2018 2 comments Kashmir
From ceasefire to political crisis-All is not well in Kashmir

From ceasefire to political crisis-All is not well in Kashmir

Kashmir is a vexed issue of the Asian sub-continent that assumes dynamic dimensions and increases its momentum with the currents of time with a sort of deep permeated growing alienation of the masses and simultaneous floating wave of armed rebellion against the system. It is the problem of multitude and a vendetta which refuses to cow down with the periodic[Read More…]

by 11/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Threat to Kashmiri Existence!

The Threat to Kashmiri Existence!

Unprecedented shutdown against Supreme Court hearing on Article 35-A shows Kashmiris’ concern not only to protect their unique identity but their very existence!  Before one delves on the threat to the existence and the identity, it would be worthwhile to describe the unique Kashmiri identity. There are many theories about the origin of Kashmiris. It is one of the most[Read More…]

by 09/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: No-go Zone For Foreign Journalists?

Kashmir: No-go Zone For Foreign Journalists?

  The storyof contemporary Kashmir would have remained under wraps, marked as “classified,” “top secret” never to be toldto the world.But,for some journalist living true to their professional ethics, it was reported.Annie Gowen, graduate of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas recipient of Human Rights Press Award of Special Merit 2018,[Read More…]

by 06/08/2018 1 comment Kashmir
St. Mary Church, Gulmarg

Christians in Kashmir

Co-Written by Ashish Kumar Singh & Dr. Wakar Amin Being ranked as the fourth-worst country for religious intolerance out of 198 nations in April 2017, it is high time that the claims of “unity of diversity” are crosschecked in every nook and corner of India. This ranking was done a Pew Research Canter’s study. The state of Kashmir has been affected[Read More…]

by 03/08/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Adulterated Food and Fake Medicine

Adulterated Food and Fake Medicine

The worst calamities for Kashmir apart from natural disasters are the adulteration in food products and the sale of fake medicine! Kashmiris have now become used to both natural and man-made disasters striking one after the other. In fact, Nature has been rather very kind and it is the fellow human beings whose material greed has turned into the instruments[Read More…]

by 02/08/2018 4 comments Kashmir
Article 35-A cannot be abrogated

Article 35-A cannot be abrogated

Today after seven decades,  JK Muslims, are struggling hard to protect “semblance” of their Unique Culture and Identity that was “guaranteed” to them under Articles 370 and 35-A by the givers of the Indian Constitution. For 70 years, Article 370 has served the interests of India beyond its expectations, internally as well as externally, keeping in view geo-political challenges it faced[Read More…]

by 31/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Agonized Stories of Parents of Martyred Children of Kashmir 

Agonized Stories of Parents of Martyred Children of Kashmir 

  On a couple of times, I noticed a man wearing grief on his face as withering leaves on   hackberries on graveyards strolling on dusty lawns of the Srinagar court. At some other times, I had spotted him silently sittingin  corners of the  canopies erected by the human rights activists or the resistance leadership to mark  the world human rights[Read More…]

by 31/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Mammoth fossil excavated newr pampore in 2000

Kashmir Heritage: Tale of a Mammoth Loss

During a study tour on 31 August 2000, when some teachers and students of Degree College Sopore discovered a fossil of a mammoth at Pampore, 15 kms south of Srinagar, geologists in Kashmir were excited. The find, comprising a skull with complete lower and upper jaws, a broken tusk and a vertebra, was highlighted as ‘the largest ever unearthed in[Read More…]

by 28/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir To Ka’ba: The Journey of Faith in Yesteryears

Kashmir To Ka’ba: The Journey of Faith in Yesteryears

The first batch of 820 (Haj-1439) pilgrims left Srinagar by air on 14 July 2018. In all, about 10,196 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir will perform Haj this year through the State Haj Committee. Of these, 8450 are from Kashmir. The last flight will take off from Srinagar on 25 July. The return flights commencing on 25 August will conclude[Read More…]

by 27/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Environmental Suicide!

The Environmental Suicide!

(The way we have been deliberately and knowingly destroying various components of Nature in Kashmir makes it look like an Environmental “Suicide”!) Recently there has been news about some dredging scam in the Wular Lake area where the contract given to a firm has been cancelled. The need for dredging of the second largest sweet water lake in Asia is[Read More…]

Historical Decisions Have Historical Consequences: A Leaf With A Lesson From History

Historical Decisions Have Historical Consequences: A Leaf With A Lesson From History

The rising anger against age old State atrocities & injustices, augmented by the news of sacrilegious acts by non-Muslims pouring in from some Jammu areas, caused outright outrage among the Muslims of Kashmir. (Disputed Legacy, Alastar Lamb, pages 89-90) It was in 1931 when the growing dissatisfaction of the Kashmiri people burst into flame. (Danger in Kashmir, Josef Korbel, page[Read More…]

by 24/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Article 35-A is the meeting point for all divergent viewpoints

Article 35-A is the meeting point for all divergent viewpoints

  The date 6 August 2018, has been hanging like the sword of Damocles on the heads of the citizens of Jammu and Kashmir, across the religious, regional, ethnic and linguistic divide. On this date, the Supreme Court of India is to hear Public Interest Litigations on the Article 35A dealing with permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2014,[Read More…]

by 23/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Tourism gets low priority

Kashmir: Tourism gets low priority

(In spite of the fact that one and all claim Tourism to be back bone of Kashmir’s economy, yet the government does not seem to accord it the priority it deserves!) Almost all the governments have been declaring from various pulpits that the Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy. Unfortunately, so far there is neither an approved “Policy of[Read More…]

by 20/07/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Of government’s demise and political crisis in Kashmir

Of government’s demise and political crisis in Kashmir

India is a land of diversity where people from different regions merge in a single Union. Jammu and Kashmir is the only northern state of India dogged with an overridden unhealthy political atmosphere which augurs ill to the tenets of democracy itself. The Political equations in the state have undergone a comprehensive transformation down the passing times. The PDP-BJP coalition[Read More…]

by 19/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kounsar Nag: Between legends & reality

Kounsar Nag: Between legends & reality

Nature has indeed endowed the valley of Kashmir & the neighbouring mountains with an abundance of fine springs including the one named “Kounsar Nag”. (The ancient geography of ancient Kashmir (1899) by M A Stein, pages 32, 72) It is a two miles long & ½ mile wide beautiful lake lying above Kongwattan village in Pir Panchal mountainous range of[Read More…]

by 17/07/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Story: Not Known To The World?

Kashmir Story: Not Known To The World?

My take on the book, ‘Kashmir Glimpse of History and Story of Struggle’ by Saifuddin Soz the past week in this column kick-started an important debate on the social media. Minus, some unsavoury remarks by some friends on the book and the scholarship of the author, the debate generated was important in as much as, it raised some important questions[Read More…]

by 16/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
This flag titled The sang-bazan (stone pelters) of Kashmir is #11 in the seriesJatiIndia: Flags of Atrocities Caste, Present and Future. 

Modi’s Kashmir Policy has brought India to Disrepute

The cynical break-up of the PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir by BJP without prior notice in Jammu and Kashmir is a clear evidence of its plans to continue with the policy of “no dialogue” and harsh suppression of all forms of protest. The policy that Modi government has been following is a combination of (a) harsh crackdowns on[Read More…]

by 13/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Nepotism, Kashmir’s worst enemy!

Nepotism, Kashmir’s worst enemy!

(The most destructive element in every sphere of Kashmir Society is the widespread nepotism! For any real progress it has not only to be opposed but eradicated) Most of the ills in Kashmir in every sphere of the society emanate from extensive nepotism. It would be interesting to study the rise of nepotism and its prevalence in our parts. The[Read More…]

by 12/07/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Three Civilians Including A Teenage Girl Killed In Kashmir

Three Civilians Including A Teenage Girl Killed In Kashmir

Three civilians including a teenage girl were killed allegedly in government forces action during clashes in Redwani area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Saturday. A senior police officer told news agency GNS that army’s patrolling party opened fire upon a group of youth after they pelted stones on them in Hawoora area of Khudwani near Redwani area. The deceased[Read More…]

by 07/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Living with nightmares!

Living with nightmares!

  (The trauma caused by the disastrous flood of 2014 makes living in Srinagar’s low lying colonies virtually a continuous nightmare, especially during the rainy days!) The recent flood caused by just a couple of days of continuous rain created a wave of panic among the people living in different parts of Srinagar especially those in the low lying areas[Read More…]

by 05/07/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Corruption in blood stream!

Kashmir: Corruption in blood stream!

(The Kashmir Society has become so corrupt that one feels the corruption has gone into the blood stream of the people!) There was a time when word “corruption” would give a scary feeling. In fact, calling somebody corrupt was probably the worst abuse. Not now! It has become a word of daily usage to which all of us seem to[Read More…]

by 28/06/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
UN Human Rights Report Gives New Sinews To Kashmir

UN Human Rights Report Gives New Sinews To Kashmir

Historically, Kashmiris since 1819 have always greeted the voices raised from outside the state against their oppression and in support of their cause.  In 1934, when Mahatma Gandhi in response to a missive by a Kashmiri Pandit leader,  Prem Nath Bazaz wrote to him in a letter dated May 15, 1934,  “Seeing that Kashmiris predominantly Mussalman it is bound to[Read More…]

by 25/06/2018 2 comments Kashmir, Human Rights
The Haunted Masjid

The Haunted Masjid

SRINAGAR: Ali masjid which is the second largest mosque in the state after Jamia Masjid was constructed during 600 AD, reason why it is entitled as haunted mosque because people believe that it was surrounded by Jins ( haunted ghosts), initially this mosque had hardly any locality around during the late 90s and the mosque had a water canal starting[Read More…]

by 24/06/2018 3 comments Kashmir
Shujaat Bukhari: An Epitome Of The Finest Qualities Of Kashmir

Shujaat Bukhari: An Epitome Of The Finest Qualities Of Kashmir

The latest horrendous episode of Kashmir saga is the dastardly assassination of Shujaat Bukhari who had risen as the epitome of the finest qualities every Kashmiri will be vying for ages to come. His killing marks a paradigm shift in the very political nature of Kashmir conflict which has altogether shocked each and every sane person of Kashmir, in the[Read More…]

by 22/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Story and the battle of David vs Goliath

Kashmir Story and the battle of David vs Goliath

  The withdrawal of Bhartiya Janata Party’s support from its ally the People’s Democratic Party in Jammu and Kashmir has plunged the state into a quandary. The Governor’s rule and the promulgation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) have pushed the state into uncertainties. Where do we go from here is story for another day to tell here[Read More…]

by 21/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Beautiful Mosque

The Beautiful Mosque

Walking through the roads of Shopian, as I proceed towards the main market of Shopian, the great and significant Jamia Masjid grasps my eyes, amid all the hustle bustle of the main chowk where occupants mostly come putting up their stalls, it’s historic prominence and beautiful architecture makes me contemplate over and over again, how beautifully the architecture is carved.[Read More…]

by 21/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir in a dense cauldron of uncertainty

Kashmir in a dense cauldron of uncertainty

Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) politics has once again entered a cycle of uncertainty following BJP’s decision to pull out of the coalition with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) formed three years ago. It eventually led to the resignation of its chief minister Mehbooba Mufti whose decision to join hands with the BJP had, in fact, raised many eyebrows even at[Read More…]

by 20/06/2018 4 comments Kashmir
Modi’s Calculated Risk In Kashmir

Modi’s Calculated Risk In Kashmir

The BJP yesterday pulled out of the Jammu and Kashmir government headed by People’s Democratic Party leader Ms Mehbooba Mufti. Speaking to the media in Delhi, the party in charge of J & K Mr Ram Madhav said that this alliance had become untenable as the situation in the valley was worsening every day. According to Madhav that ceasefire was[Read More…]

by 20/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The OHCHR report on Kashmir: Will India succeed in blocking discussions on the report in Geneva?

The OHCHR report on Kashmir: Will India succeed in blocking discussions on the report in Geneva?

The United Nations, Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), on June 14 published “Report on the Situation of Human Rights in Kashmir: Developments in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir from June 2016 to April 2018”. This is the first such report on Jammu and Kashmir by the UN. It covers both India and Pakistan controlled[Read More…]

by 20/06/2018 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
The UN Human Rights Report Reveals The Real Face Of Kashmir

The UN Human Rights Report Reveals The Real Face Of Kashmir

Kashmir Centre for social & development studies (KCSDS ) hails UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’  Report  on the situation of human rights in   Kashmir and its  straightforward  recommendation  for respecting the  right to self determination of Kashmiris.  It  is as if after a long time parched land has got  much needed unexpected rain from a quarter that  had maintained studied[Read More…]

by 17/06/2018 1 comment Human Rights, Kashmir
KCSDS Condemns Shujjat Bukhari’s Killing

KCSDS Condemns Shujjat Bukhari’s Killing

Kashmir Centre for social & development studies (KCSDS ) is rudely shocked  & terribly grieved  at the brutal assassination of senior Journalist & chief Editor of  daily Rising Kashmir Shujjat Bukhari. Carried in broad daylight, in a high security zone and  coinciding with  the  indictment of India by UN human rights council  for gross human rights violations in Kashmir, the[Read More…]

by 17/06/2018 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
Why is J&K without Street Vending Act?

Why is J&K without Street Vending Act?

The regulation of street vending act 2014 is not extended to Jammu and Kashmir the reason is best known to the legislators, however, Minister of State for Housing & Urban Development, Ms. AsieaNaqash promised that her government will enact the ‘J&K Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2016’ on the pattern of ‘Street Vendors (Protection[Read More…]

by 16/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Bloody springs in Kashmir

Bloody springs in Kashmir

Young boys are joining the rebel groups consistently that signifies the complete failure of Hurriyat’s policies of leading the conflict to its logical conclusion. No one seems obedient to adhere their thoughts on the peaceful demonstration that could secede Kashmir from the clutches of India. Kashmiris are trying to convince two nations to enter into dialogue and resolve the protracted[Read More…]

by 16/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
PUCL Condemns the Assassination of Shujaat Bukhari, Editor, `Kashmir Raising’

PUCL Condemns the Assassination of Shujaat Bukhari, Editor, `Kashmir Raising’

PUCL is deeply shocked and strongly condemns the dastardly assassination of Shujaat Bukhari, Editor-in-Chief of `Rising Kashmir’ on Thursday, 14th June, 2018 evening by armed gunmen just as he was getting into his vehicle after leaving office. 2 of his personal security officers also died as a result of the shooting. A very experienced journalist Shujaat was a strong voice[Read More…]

Shujaat Bukhari’s Killing And UN Report on Human Rights Violations in Kashmir

Shujaat Bukhari’s Killing And UN Report on Human Rights Violations in Kashmir

When, then US President, Clinton visited Kashmir, Chattisingpora massacre happened in which atleast 44 sikhs were gunned down. During Zubin Mehta’s visit and musical event at Shalimar, four innocents were silenced in Shopian and later dubbed as militants. When United Nations Security Council was discussing Kashmir in 2016 after massive uprising and revolt against Indian occupation, Uri attack occured in[Read More…]

by 15/06/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Thousands attend Shujaat Bukhari’s funeral in North Kashmir’s  Kreeri

Thousands attend Shujaat Bukhari’s funeral in North Kashmir’s  Kreeri

Baramulla:  The skies opened up on Friday as thousands of friends and admirers joined the funeral procession of veteran journalist Syed  Shujaat Bukhari, who was laid to rest in his ancestral village here a day after he was shot dead outside his office in Srinagar. Braving heavy rain, crowds of tearful mourners from across the Valley followed the cortege through[Read More…]

by 15/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Bazar: Kashmir’s Markets, Merchants And Well-Offs of Yore

Kashmir Bazar: Kashmir’s Markets, Merchants And Well-Offs of Yore

In ancient Kashmir there existed “several market places and bazaars in the city of Srinagar”, while the first “wholesale market” of Kashmir, Maharaj Gunj, was “lately constructed”.  (Gazetteer of Kashmir (1890), 772). Sir W R Lawrence writes: “In Kashmir there are certain depots of trade, the chief being Srinagar, Baramula, Islamabad, Shupiyon, and Bandipur. Latterly Panjabi traders have opened business[Read More…]

by 15/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Shujaat Bukhari: Another Voice Of Reason Silenced

Shujaat Bukhari: Another Voice Of Reason Silenced

Shujaat Bukhari, Editor of Rising Kashmir and a man of deep conviction, known through his fearless writings fell to the bullets of assassins today at the time when festive season of Eid is approaching after the culmination of the holy month of Ramadhan. Bukhari’s killing also shows us how difficult it is for the journalists of the Kashmiri origin particularly[Read More…]

by 15/06/2018 Comments are Disabled Human Rights, Kashmir
First-ever UN human rights report on Kashmir calls for international inquiry into multiple violations

First-ever UN human rights report on Kashmir calls for international inquiry into multiple violations

GENEVA (14 June 2018) – There is an urgent need to address past and ongoing human rights violations and abuses and deliver justice for all people in Kashmir, who for seven decades have suffered a conflict that has claimed or ruined numerous lives, a report by the UN Human Rights Office published on Thursday says. The 49-page report – the[Read More…]

by 14/06/2018 1 comment Human Rights, Kashmir
Senior Kashmiri Journalist Shujaat Bukhari Shot Dead In Srinagar

Senior Kashmiri Journalist Shujaat Bukhari Shot Dead In Srinagar

Senior Kashmiri journalist Shujaat Bukhari was shot dead by unknown attackers in Srinagar on Thursday evening. Mr Bukhari, the editor of the ‘Rising Kashmir’ newspaper, was attacked when he was coming out of his office in Press Colony in the city. He was hit by multiple bullets at close range. A security guard on his protection detail was also shot[Read More…]

by 14/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Vanishing Water Bodies of Kashmir

The Vanishing Water Bodies of Kashmir

  (We have literally eaten away most of our water bodies after first polluting these beyond redemption) As the legend describes it, Kashmir Valley was a huge lake.  Kalhana, the author of the earliest recoded history of Kashmir, Rajtarangni, states that the valley of Kashmir was a huge lake called Satisar. The Lake was drained through the Varmul gorge by[Read More…]

by 14/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Talks between New Delhi And Srinagar: Options and Possibilities

Talks between New Delhi And Srinagar: Options and Possibilities

There is no history of a dialogue between Srinagar and New Delhi for the resolution of the “Kashmir Dispute.”If a dialogue takes place now, it will be making history. Moreover, the leader from New Delhi, who initiates talks for deciding the future of the state, the cause of wars and skirmishes between India and Pakistan and a nuclear flash point[Read More…]

by 12/06/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Zojila pass tunnel

The land-locked Kashmir!

(Kashmir has been described as a land-locked country but with the advent of civil aviation it became quite accessible. However, some parts still continue to be remote especially in winter!) Historically, Kashmir has always been known as a land-locked country in the high Himalayan Mountains. In the earliest Chinese records Kashmir is described as, “a country enveloped on all sides[Read More…]

by 07/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Dispute Has Solution In Its Archives

Kashmir Dispute Has Solution In Its Archives

  Sometimes a new book for its contested contents makes one dust the archives and look for answers and explanations for the controversies raised in it. In a situation like that of our where peopleare caught up in a morass of political uncertaintyandare struggling for ending it many times, books are sponsored by the establishment to cloud the historical realities. [Read More…]

by 04/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
A Youth Crushed To Death By A Paramilitary Vehicle In Kashmir

A Youth Crushed To Death By A Paramilitary Vehicle In Kashmir

A youth was crushed to death by a speeding paramilitary CRPF vehicle near Jamia Masjid, Srinagar on Friday. Kaiser Bhat, 21, of Fateh-a- Kadal has been identified as the dead person. Another youth also sustained injuries after being run over by the vehicle. The deceased youth is survived by two teenage sisters and had recently started Kashmir art business. He[Read More…]

by 02/06/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Ceasefire in“Ramadan”!

Ceasefire in“Ramadan”!

(Linking cessation of military operations against militants with the holy month of Ramadan amounts to communalizing the move which should normally have no connection with religion) The Central Government recently announced the cessation of cordon and search operations by the Army during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan to give peace a chance. The announcement was made on the request[Read More…]

by 31/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
KHOKH:  A bogey of fear that was created in Kashmiri Muslims-minds

KHOKH:  A bogey of fear that was created in Kashmiri Muslims-minds

Kashmiri Dictionary defines the word “Khokh” as “an effigy used to scare away birds from fields of crop”. Its English equivalent is “scarecrow” which is used by peasants during harvest season in their farmlands to keep away the pesky birds from damaging the crop. That said, we know that this word was used by Kashmiri parents, usually mothers, till very[Read More…]

by 31/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Rape as war weapon for Indian Armed Forces

Rape as war weapon for Indian Armed Forces

Ever since the beginning of the conflict Kashmir has witnessed a remarkably high incidence of violence in general and the rape of Kashmiri women by security forces in particular. Rape is used as a means of targeting women whom the security forces accuse of being militant sympathisers; in raping them, the security forces are attempting to punish and humiliate the[Read More…]

by 31/05/2018 3 comments Kashmir
Srinagar International Airport, A Cruel Joke!

Srinagar International Airport, A Cruel Joke!

(Going by International Civil Aviation Standards, the Civil Airport at Srinagar does not, in reality, function as an International Airport) For a change, let us see how the airport is described in the famous online encyclopedia, Wikepedia. It says, “Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport (IATA: SXR, ICAO: VISR) also known as Srinagar Airport is an international airport that serves Srinagar, the summer capital of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is[Read More…]

by 24/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Freedom I Fear

The Freedom I Fear

No other right has been so dear to humans as the right to freedom. Freedom has been the bedrock of whole humanity. Then clearly stated the history of all human societies has been the history of struggle for freedom. The very creation of the humans has been justified by the free will granted to them. So it is freedom that[Read More…]

by 23/05/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Ramadan Break In Kashmir

The Ramadan Break In Kashmir

  The recent announcement by New Delhi to halt its military operations in Kashmir that seek to kill nominally trained and armed militants and the youth that lead agitations during the military operations is a welcome move. After two years of relentless and wanton violence, mostly provoked by the illogical military response to a struggle that is primarily based on[Read More…]

by 22/05/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir Press: A journey from past to present

Kashmir Press: A journey from past to present

Prefatory:   Notwithstanding that the printing press was invented in mid 15th century, the initial newspapers in the world started their publication in Germany, England & other European countries only in 17th & 18th centuries. During 20th century, radio & television were invented, & the journalists used them to disseminate information among public on matters related to society, politics, culture,[Read More…]

by 21/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
A letter to the Indian Army Chief

A letter to the Indian Army Chief

Mohodai Sena Pati Ji: Namashkar Ever since you assumed the top position within the Indian army, Kashmiris have been following your statements with quite an interest. This is because they are unique despite now being too many – from outright threats to elderly counsels, and prophecies to the ones that clearly show that you are as clueless as the rest[Read More…]

by 17/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Resilient Kashmiris!

The Resilient Kashmiris!

(“The country of Kashmir may be conquered by the force of spiritual merit, but not by the force of soldiers!” Kalhana) Recently the Army Chief challenged Kashmiri militants saying that they cannot get Azaadi as they cannot fight his Army. “I want to tell Kashmiri youth that Azaadi isn’t possible. It won’t happen. Why are you picking up weapons? We will always[Read More…]

by 17/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Hegemonic Discourse And Azadi

Kashmir: Hegemonic Discourse And Azadi

Seventy-one years on we have become so used to the ‘hegemonic discourses’ that once a new one is churned out; people laugh it out.  Many an important political scientist like Antonio Gramsci have dwelled upon the subject ‘hegemonic discourse’ in great detail and come up with scholarly treatises on the subject. Instead of getting lost in the academic jargons in[Read More…]

by 14/05/2018 2 comments Kashmir
AFSPA, A License To Kill!

AFSPA, A License To Kill!

(The present blood bath in Kashmir can only be stopped by revoking AFSPA which is virtually a license to kill and destroy without any accountability whatsoever!)  In the famous Ian Fleming’s series, James Bond, an operative of the Her Majesty’s Secret Service, had a code name“007”. The 00 suffix according to intelligence parlance stands for the “License to kill”! James[Read More…]

by 10/05/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Funny, Extravagant And Luxurious Lifestyles Of Kashmir’s Dogra Despots

Funny, Extravagant And Luxurious Lifestyles Of Kashmir’s Dogra Despots

On 16-03-1846, the British Rulers of India sold the territory of Kashmir with its all dependencies for 75 Lakh Nanak Shahi rupees to Maharja Gulab Singh Dogra of Jammu vide infamous Treaty of Amritsar. Considering the total population at that time of “all the hilly or mountainous country”, every living human soul of Kashmir was sold vide the said sale[Read More…]

by 09/05/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
We Kashmiris deserve and want to live in peace, with freedom and dignity

We Kashmiris deserve and want to live in peace, with freedom and dignity

Every day our youth lay down their lives. Every day the monster of violence and destruction, wreak havoc in the valley of flowers. Every day devil enters paradise to commit sins. Every day we carry the bullet-ridden bodies of our budding flowers and bury them, express anguish and shed tears. We mourn, and then there is a sort of truce[Read More…]

by 08/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Omar Abdullah Berkley Discourse Demolished 

Omar Abdullah Berkley Discourse Demolished 

The Blue Gate, leading to a magnificent two-story white building with blue windows on the foothills of the Mount Solomon, Srinagar has been central to the post-1947 Kashmir narrative. In 1964, when topmost United Nations official Ralph Bunch arrived in Kashmir, the then premier students’ organization, the Jammu and Kashmir Students and Youth League organized a march to the white[Read More…]

by 03/05/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Commemorating the First Martyrs of labour history of the world: Kashmir weavers’ agitation of 1865

Commemorating the First Martyrs of labour history of the world: Kashmir weavers’ agitation of 1865

Every year, the world commemorates the victims of Haymarket affair that took place on Tuesday, May 4, 1886, at Haymarket Square in Chicago, by observing May 1st as International Workers’ Day in their memory; albeit in Canada & US, 1st September is chosen as Workers’ Day. On that fateful day, the workers had gathered peacefully to demonstrate & advocate for better[Read More…]

by 02/05/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Role of Students And Student Protest

Kashmir: Role of Students And Student Protest

                      Students have an important role in every society and state. Not only in social and educational affairs but also in the political arena, students have always played a part of paramount significance. A look at the revolutionary movements of the world gives us ample sense about the immense role that students played in shaping the destiny of various nations.[Read More…]

by 26/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Pelleting Children To Blindness

Kashmir: Pelleting Children To Blindness

  On 15 March 1929, Sir Albino Banerjee, a Bengali Christen, who for two years had been  Foreign and Political Minister of   Maharaja Hari Singh had observed that the rulers had been treating “Mohammadan population” worst than “cattle.”  Ninety years later, when the idea of governance in the world has undergone a sea change,andcolonialism has crashed themindset of those in[Read More…]

by 25/04/2018 1 comment Kashmir
An Open Letter To A Common Indian By A Kashmiri

An Open Letter To A Common Indian By A Kashmiri

Dear Narendra, Who do I mean by a common Indian? And why did I choose to write to you? I am writing this to anyone among 1,35,06,87,984 Indians who were alive till Saturday. Among this vast dizzying number of names, among Rams and Shyams, I chose a name for you – Narendra, a name, a phenomenon, you identify most with.[Read More…]

by 21/04/2018 3 comments Kashmir
It Takes Courage

It Takes Courage

Sometimes, some news stories published on the inner pages because of their imminent political fallout are more significant than those that for their immediate news value make the lead stories. On Saturday, a four column news story published on page seven of the newspaper caught my attention more than the two BJP ministers resigning at the insistence of the party[Read More…]

by 16/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Tribal Raid of 1947:   Sheikh Abdullah’s narrative missing real story

Tribal Raid of 1947:   Sheikh Abdullah’s narrative missing real story

Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in his autobiography “Blazing Chinar” ( 2016 edition, Gulshan Books Srinagar) in chapter 36 titled “Medley of Internal Troubles” has in a real medley of things connected “accession” & “sending of Indian troops” to Kashmir to the “Tribal Raid” of 23rd October, 1947. However, he openly admits that it was only at his repeated “request” & after[Read More…]

by 16/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Drug Abuse: A Growing Menace

Drug Abuse: A Growing Menace

Us Quom Ko Shamsheer Ki Hajat Nahein Rehti Ho Jis Kay Jawanun ki Khudi Surat’e Fawlaad. (A nation whose youth are endowed with self as strong and hard as steel; No need of piercing swords in war such people can ever feel)- Allama Iqbal. Youth represent nation’s future. Responsible, conscious, persevering and morally nurtured youth are a symbol of strong,[Read More…]

by 15/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Remembering Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre In Kashmir

Remembering Jallianwalla Bagh Massacre In Kashmir

In Voltaire‘s novel, the title character, Candide, on board, asks another character, an old sage, Martin: “Do you believe that men have always massacred one another as they do today..?” Martin tacitly concurring with Candide, says: “Do you believe that hawks have always eaten pigeons when they have found them?” ”Without doubt,” said Candide. Without doubt, on fateful day of[Read More…]

by 13/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: David And Goliath!

Kashmir: David And Goliath!

(The recent security forces anti-insurgency operations appear like the biblical giant Goliath chasing the miniscule David with lot of collateral damage) The “Bloody Sunday” which resulted in the death of 20 persons (militants, soldiers and civilians) and injuries to over 150 persons including pellet injuries in the eyes to over 40 persons has been the worst episode of all round[Read More…]

by 12/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Misplaced Optimism

Kashmir: Misplaced Optimism

The past Monday, when my column, ‘Geelani Release- A Way Forward,’ appeared in this newspaper, I felt remorseful of having written something outlandish- far fetched from the ground reality.It was flagrantly in contradiction with the black bordered banner lead stories, ‘Bloody Sunday: 20 Killed’ in all the newspapers.The blood curdlingdetails of blood bath enacted in wee morning hours of Sunday[Read More…]

by 09/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmiriyat: Fact or Fiction? A Kashmiri Perspective

Kashmiriyat: Fact or Fiction? A Kashmiri Perspective

No historian on Kashmir has ever used the term “Kashmiriyat” in his reference to its socio-cultural values. There are, however, some “assumptions” about its genesis, all converging on a single point that it was brainchild of NC. Many say it has its origin to post-1947 political developments of JK when NC founder under the influence of his countable number of[Read More…]

by 07/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Our Spring Blooms With The Dead

Our Spring Blooms With The Dead

Another year started with gory scenes when Kashmir is engulfed with deadly silence, with tangled concertina wires blocking maximum towns of South Kashmir and parts of Srinagar city. Nervy Indian troops occupying lanes and bi-lanes. The only voices you can hear are from police gypsies, armored vehicles and the sirens of ambulances. This year the uprising started with Killing on[Read More…]

by 06/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Revising Tourism Marketing Targets

Kashmir: Revising Tourism Marketing Targets

(Tourism Department needs to direct increased marketing efforts on South India and South East Asia which are emerging as potential Tourism markets for Kashmir) The 64th Convention of the Travel agents Association of India has just concluded in Srinagar. The Convention was attended by over 600 delegates from all over the country. The Convention was held in Srinagar after 31[Read More…]

by 05/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
National Conference: Terminating Voices of Dissent

National Conference: Terminating Voices of Dissent

  There is an anonymous saying, you don’t know what is in the people’s hearts, inhistory,and you go by records. The records reveal that the mayhem of April 04 1979 was an expression of mature tendencies in National Conference against any sort of political dissent. Seven decades ago, in the streets of Amira Kadal area of Srinagar city, Sheikh Abdullah[Read More…]

by 05/04/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Learn From Mistakes, Plan Ahead

Learn From Mistakes, Plan Ahead

Digging wells when house is in flames cannot save it. We have tendency of doing things that way. We voice concern on facing a situation and keep stiff upper lip when it passes, until it approaches again. Crying for the damages caused is futile, shrewdness would be, planning for unforeseen and learn from mistakes made in the past, that is[Read More…]

by 04/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
KCSDS Statement  On Shopian Carnage

KCSDS Statement  On Shopian Carnage

Following the  carnage and heart wrenching killing of young boys on Sunday, the 1st April 2018, Kashmir Centre for Social & Development studies (KCSDS ), a prominent civil society group of Kashmir,in an emergency meeting,  expressed extreme disgust and outrage at the human and moral depravity demonstrated by   Mehbooba led govt  in brutally killing   boys in their teens and twenties.[Read More…]

by 03/04/2018 2 comments Kashmir
April Fools’ Day: Muslim or Kashmir Relation?

April Fools’ Day: Muslim or Kashmir Relation?

On First April, in many societies & Western countries, lies are spread in the shape of jokes, hoax & pranks by people on their friends, relatives, neighbours & colleagues which put the latter to great embarrassment & sometimes to harassment or actual harm. It is a custom called April Fools’ Day which actually calls upon people to concoct a special[Read More…]

by 03/04/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Geelani Release- A Way Forward

Geelani Release- A Way Forward

It might have been festive day for nonagenarian Syed Ali Shah Geelani, when he offered congregational Friday prayers, obligatory on all Muslims at the Jamia Masjid, Hyderpora, some two hundred yards from his residence. For about, three thousands days, five times a day Muezzin had been calling on him from the Masjid in his neighborhood to join the congregational prayers,but[Read More…]

by 02/04/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Pheran: The Language of Kashmiri Culture

Pheran: The Language of Kashmiri Culture

The Kashmiri word “Pheran” is contraction of the Persian word “pairahan” which literally means garment & which clearly shows its origin to the time of Mughal rulers who had Persian descent; notwithstanding, some Kashmiri Pandits in recent times have tried to connect its origin to the Greek word “Apron” & even the Tajik word “Peraband. But both these words are[Read More…]

by 30/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Three Sobriquets Of Three Topmost Leaders Of NC

Three Sobriquets Of Three Topmost Leaders Of NC

In 2015, one Deepak Sharma a RTI activist from Jammu filed an application with General Administration Department/GAD of the State Government seeking details about who had conferred sobriquet of “Shere e Kashmir” on Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah / SMA. GAD in reply said that there was not any official record conferring or confirming that the sobriquet was ever officially bestowed upon[Read More…]

by 27/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The National Travel Convention

The National Travel Convention

(The holding of the 64th Convention and Exhibition by the Travel Agents Association of India in Srinagar is expected to send positive signals for Kashmir in different travel markets) After thirty years, the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) is holding its 64th Annual Convention in Srinagar. This is the apex body of Travel Agents throughout India and holding of[Read More…]

by 27/03/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Syed Ali Geelani  Still On Scene

Syed Ali Geelani  Still On Scene

  Some days back, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, decided to step aside and passed on the baton of the Tahreek Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir to his second in command Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai.  On the expected lines, the decision taken at a Shoora meeting of the Tahreek Hurriyat made it to headlines in the newspapers across the sub-continent. The decision caused[Read More…]

by 26/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Lotus-Eaters

Lotus-Eaters

Homer is the name ascribed to one or more men, presumed to have lived between 700-800 BC, among Greek . Homer is credited with writing of two epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey, which hold central position in Greek mythology & Western literature. The Iliad is the sequel to the Odyssey. Both are classic poetry that will hold sway[Read More…]

by 22/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Political History

Kashmir’s Political History

(To elaborate the political nature of Kashmir problem, one needs to examine the historical perspective of the land and its people) Recently Kashmir’s Finance Minister lost his job for saying that Kashmir is not a political problem. Apart from that he had denigrated the political leadership of Kashmir standing for its total freedom. He had stated that they were barking[Read More…]

by 22/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Idioms of Hubris

The Idioms of Hubris

At times some words or phrases or idioms, more particularly those maliciously spoken to demean a nations pride get badly stuck up in one’s mind. Like witches, they haunt even in the bed.  These cannot be jettisoned from the mind unless talked about boldly and candidly. For couple of days,an idiom ‘barking up the wrong tree’ has been bothering my[Read More…]

by 19/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Legacy Of Khuftan Fakirs And Goggas: A Peep Into The Past

The Legacy Of Khuftan Fakirs And Goggas: A Peep Into The Past

Nicknaming people, places & things is an old practice among all communities usually to express affection, but in Kashmir certain nicknames in vogue till now, while some others handed-down the memory lane by elders for posterity carry ridicule with them. To start with, if you think the underlying purport of the nicknames “Nabdhi” , “Ikhwani” or “renegade” or “betrayer” &[Read More…]

by 19/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
India Owes Answers For The Killings Of 36 Sikhs And 14 Others In Kashmir

India Owes Answers For The Killings Of 36 Sikhs And 14 Others In Kashmir

  The March 20, 2000 killings of 36 Sikhs in Indian-occupied Kashmir remains a mystery. It happened close to then US President Bill Clinton’s visit to India. The massacre took place in the Chittisinghpura village of Kashmir. The assailants wore Indian army uniforms, lined up the Sikhs from the village, and shot them to death. Kashmir is a disputed territory[Read More…]

by 19/03/2018 4 comments Kashmir
This flag titled The sang-bazan (stone pelters) of Kashmir is #11 in the seriesJatiIndia: Flags of Atrocities Caste, Present and Future. 

Kashmir Problem, Social or Political?

As Shakespeare has said, “A rose is a rose by whatever name you call it” Similarly, Kashmir is a serious problem whether you name it Social or Political that is presently irrelevant! Haseeb Drabu, lost his job by merely stating that Kashmir is a Social Issue and not a Political Issue. Incidentally, he is one of the architects of the[Read More…]

by 15/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Of Ennui, A Servile Fearfulness And Kashmir

Of Ennui, A Servile Fearfulness And Kashmir

    Being from Hajan and waking up to the azaan being played to a familiar beat of bullets, to a familiar anguish and desperation in the family, to the fear of a stray bullet smashing your window anytime and hitting you in the bed, to a strange discomfort to hear the gun shots off and join the unruly crowd[Read More…]

by 13/03/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Justice For Asifa, Kathua Rape And Murder Victim

Justice For Asifa, Kathua Rape And Murder Victim

As a group of women from Jammu and Kashmir, we express great anguish over the unjustifiable delay in the investigations into the heinous rape and murder of a minor eight year old Bakerwal girl, Asifa in Rassana village, Hiranagar, Kathua district. We are equally concerned over the excessive politicization and communalization of an incident which is clearly one of sexual[Read More…]

by 07/03/2018 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
A Dream Of Becoming Doctor Confined To Darkness By Pellets

A Dream Of Becoming Doctor Confined To Darkness By Pellets

My journey begin from home some 50Km away from destination. When a little light from shadowy was coming out, I went up to have some moments with Insha Mushtaq after she had passed 10th class exam. Insha-a girl on whom pellets were showered by the brave security forces of, world’s largest democracy during the 2016 uprising, just after three days[Read More…]

by 07/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
 Kashmir: Late Marriages, A Grave Concern 

 Kashmir: Late Marriages, A Grave Concern 

          Marriage (Nikah) is highly recommended and much encouraged in the religion of Islam. Teacher of humankind Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) explicitly stated the importance of marriage in many hadith and even said ‘‘Marriage is my Sunnah; whosoever keeps away from it has nothing to do with us” (Ibn-majah). Marriage is described as the legal contract between[Read More…]

by 03/03/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Flood Prevention Hakeem Suyya Way!

Flood Prevention Hakeem Suyya Way!

(In view of the failure of the government to implement various flood prevention measures especially dredging and strengthening of river banks, someone has to become a Hakeem Suyya to save Srinagar!) The popular minister of the famous Kashmiri King Avanti Varman, Hakeem Suyya, is still remembered everywhere as a Messiah who saved Kashmir from the ravages of flooded Jhelum and[Read More…]

by 02/03/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Our Colleges And Human Resource Development

Kashmir: Our Colleges And Human Resource Development

Before my transfer to an Engineering College recently, I taught at Govt. Degree College Bandipora, situated on the top of a hillock, an idyllic place surrounded by a majestic bulwark of mountains on almost three sides and overlooking the bucolic expanses of famous Wullar Lake on one side; undoubtedly a wondrous place with amazing ambience for the transaction of education.[Read More…]

by 01/03/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Article 35-A: Remnant of State-autonomy Rankling in the Heart of ultra-Hindu Nationalists

Article 35-A: Remnant of State-autonomy Rankling in the Heart of ultra-Hindu Nationalists

Any argument against Article 35-A of the Constitution of India in isolation from the political and social conditions in which partition of India, accession of JK with India took place and in which Orders and Notifications of 1927 and 1932 were issued by the then Ruler of JK Maharaja Hari Singh is patently bound to lead to wrong conclusions about[Read More…]

by 24/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Srinagar, The “SMART” Prison!

Srinagar, The “SMART” Prison!

Instead of making Srinagar, the city of the Sun into a “Smart” city, it has been turned into a virtual prison! Sometime back there was talk of declaring some cities all over the country as “Smart” cities for proper development on modern lines. Srinagar was also included in the list of these cities. Incidentally, Srinagar, the City of the Sunis[Read More…]

by 22/02/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Ominous Shadows

The Ominous Shadows

It presages something cataclysmic is in the offing that has the potential of tearing apart the social and political fabric of the state beyond repair. It should send alarm bells ringing across the divide. Moreover, it calls for serious attention, far beyond a tweet or a post on the social media or a statement in the newspaper. In fact, the[Read More…]

by 19/02/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Remembering Hiagam Massacre!

Remembering Hiagam Massacre!

 “We know about every massacre that has taken place close to the present, but the ones in the distant past are like trees falling in the forest with no one to hear them.”Steven Pinker. Hiagam a small hamlet, barely 20 kilometres from the District Headquarters Baramulla,  is world famous for the wetland Rakh-i-Hiagam . This village still struggles  with the[Read More…]

by 15/02/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Why We Are Suspicious!

Why We Are Suspicious!

                  Once the synonym of paradise, Kashmir is no longer so. Now often described as the valley of grief and mourning, the Kashmir hardly witnesses a single day of respite from bloodshed. Grief-struck population especially youth yearn to have peaceful survival. To escape the situation and environment, where irrespective of their age, social status, and occupation etc their life is[Read More…]

by 13/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir’s Youth In Haryana: Worrisome Developments That Need Sensitive Handling

Kashmir’s Youth In Haryana: Worrisome Developments That Need Sensitive Handling

Within the span of not more than ten days there have been two incidents of Kashmiris being beaten up in Haryana. The first news came from Mahendergarh around the last weekend, and the second just a couple of days back from Mullana in Ambala district. In 2016 there were similar reports of Kashmiri youth being beaten up in a private[Read More…]

by 11/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Mother Tongue First: Kashmir And Kashmiri Language

Mother Tongue First: Kashmir And Kashmiri Language

Co-Written By: Zeeshan Rasool Khan& Eram Hameed Khan Wilhelm von Humboldt aptly said: “Absolutely nothing is as important for nation’s culture as its language”. Culture and language have the deep-rooted relationship with language constituting an indispensable element of culture. The latter is key component involved in nation building and can be termed as oil that keeps nation and society functional.[Read More…]

by 10/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Winds From The Other Side Of LoC

Kashmir: Winds From The Other Side Of LoC

Kashmir stirs emotion, debate, politics, sense of rights, legal and geopolitical questions, terrible memories and sad stories, sense of urgency, demands, activism, pains, poems and songs, allurement, greed, mobility, hatred, plans, killings, conspiracies, skirmishes and war. A major part of political psyche in and around the region has been anchored in Kashmir. Most of the mainstream media reports focus on[Read More…]

by 06/02/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir To Dehradun!!!

Kashmir To Dehradun!!!

Dehradun is one of the safest cities in India. It is considered as an educational hub, with students from every nook and corner of India – especially from Kashmir valley – coming here for schooling as well as for higher education. Making life easy especially for those who have come travelling from distances away from home with academic objectives, crimes[Read More…]

by 04/02/2018 1 comment Kashmir
Open Letter To The Education Minister Kashmir: Why Study Disaster Management?

Open Letter To The Education Minister Kashmir: Why Study Disaster Management?

Dear Minister, The number of disasters over the world is increasing year by year. These disasters include both natural calamities as well as human-made conflicts that take millions of lives every year and cause huge damage to property and livelihood. The deaths occur predominantlyin the poor countries. Jammu and Kashmir state, due to its geographical locations and formations is a[Read More…]

by 03/02/2018 1 comment Kashmir
The Ever Illusive Jhelum Dredging!

The Ever Illusive Jhelum Dredging!

(The most important flood prevention measure of dredging the river Jhelum and the Spill over Channel seems illusive as ever as one does not see any physical progress on the ground!) After the disastrous flood of 2014, the most important task of the government was to initiate immediate flood prevention measures. The top most measure was the dredging of the[Read More…]

by 01/02/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: UN Security Council Must Abide By Its Commitment

Kashmir: UN Security Council Must Abide By Its Commitment

The aftermath of partition of India had varied consequences; some were short term while others were long term. The unresolved long term consequence was and is the Kashmir dispute. Jammu and Kashmir was India’s largest princely state in 1947, with both an area of 84,471 sq. miles and international boundaries with China and Afghanistan. In 1945–46, the J&K regime collected[Read More…]

by 01/02/2018 2 comments Kashmir
Enforced Disappearance: A Violence Behind Veil

Enforced Disappearance: A Violence Behind Veil

Co-Written by Advocate Syed Mujtaba and Inamul Haq In the global world, the terminology of war on terror has triggered intense debates about the role of security and liberty. The word security is enclosed with either as a governmental or exceptional practice. While is the case of liberty has been shrouded in salience. These two terms are closely looked by[Read More…]

by 31/01/2018 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
An Honest Memoir On Traveling Through The Kashmir Valley

An Honest Memoir On Traveling Through The Kashmir Valley

I am a wanderer and an explorer, I will travel to any corner of this planet if it intrigues me or catches my fancy. Somewhere in 2017, I decided that I must travel to Kashmir, maybe I was attracted to the place as it was a boiling cauldron of careless politics and tragic lives. It is strange to think about[Read More…]

by 31/01/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
The Physical Social Disconnection!

The Physical Social Disconnection!

(The people seem to be socially disconnected physically from each other due to the events of last couple of decades. This in turn has resulted in many psychological problems!) In 2015, Medicines Sans Frontier conducted a survey in Kashmir about the mental health of the people. “Nearly 1 in 5 adults (19%) in the Kashmir Valley is living with significant[Read More…]

by 25/01/2018 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Frightened Roses!

Frightened Roses!

                                      Ay Chaand Yahan Na Nikla Kar! Yeh  Des Hai Andhe Lougoo Ka! (O! moon. Do not Rise here! Our’s  is a country of Blinds!)          These verses of Habib Jaalib are a fair display of our contemporary world. The[Read More…]

by 21/01/2018 2 comments Kashmir, Patriarchy
Mothers Of Disappeared Of Kashmir Ask For Justice 

Mothers Of Disappeared Of Kashmir Ask For Justice 

             I was recently talking to a mother , who is still waiting for his son’s return. Although she was not wailing, but her moist eyes was saying it all. The pain and agony was visible on his face. She has seen her son disappear before her eyes. She has tried everything, from going to army camps to police posts[Read More…]

by 09/01/2018 Comments are Disabled Human Rights, Kashmir
Kashmir Needs Resolution, Not Management!

Kashmir Needs Resolution, Not Management!

(As always, people from every side are trying to “manage” the problem in Kashmir rather than resolve it once for and all!) The authorities in Delhi and Kashmir are these days announcing a number of measures to somehow engage the “rebellious” youth all over Kashmir. Firstly, harsh measures are being taken to trace and liquidate militants. In fact, the Army[Read More…]

by 28/12/2017 2 comments Kashmir
International Human Rights Day And Kashmir

International Human Rights Day And Kashmir

International Human Rights Day is observed on 10th of December every year. It commemorates the day on which, the United Nations General assembly adopted the Universal deceleration of Human Rights. This year’s human day is devoted to the launch of a yearlong campaign for the 50th year anniversary of the two International Covenants on the human rights, known as International[Read More…]

by 26/12/2017 1 comment Human Rights, Kashmir
Reviving Kashmir’s Ziraat

Reviving Kashmir’s Ziraat

(Any initiative in reviving and expanding the agricultural base of Kashmir which has been the backbone of our economy is most welcome) A columnist friend Arjimand Hussain Talib has recently launched Ziraat Times both a print publication and an online portal to fully revive and promote the dwindling agricultural economy of the State. The focus of the bi-lingual print publication[Read More…]

by 21/12/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Own Air Service

Kashmir’s Own Air Service

(The operation of a private helicopter service is welcome but it needs full government backing from the State and the Centre to succeed) Recently the announcement about the formation of a private limited company, Kashmir Air Services was made by some local entrepreneurs known as Dar brothers. They have been operating a reputed timber company known as Dar Timber Company.[Read More…]

by 14/12/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Abuse And Maltreatment Of Kashmiri Prioners

Abuse And Maltreatment Of Kashmiri Prioners

  The recent incident of  abuse  & inhuman treatment of Kashmiri prisoners inside Tihar Jail in Delhi, once again brings into focus the utter negligence & inertia displayed by UN to enforce its own rules governing treatment of political prisoners of around the world. In 1955,Ten years after its birth, United Nations, set  Standard minimum rules for the treatment of[Read More…]

by 08/12/2017 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
The Political “Leeches” of Kashmir!

The Political “Leeches” of Kashmir!

(Some politicians have been virtually acting as leeches,stuck to the body of “Kashmir”, sucking every drop of its blood and attaching to it again and again even when thrown away!) “Mainstream” is a very commonly used word in Kashmir these days. It is generally applied to the politicians advocating and supporting Kashmir’s relationship with India. When one talks of streams,[Read More…]

by 07/12/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Buying Arts To Bury Resistance

Kashmir: Buying Arts To Bury Resistance

The resistance in Kashmir has seen many peaks and troughs in the recent years. The persistent arts have become a tool of the powerful to let oppressed in false sense of hope. The introduction of perverted Sufism and Sufi traditions, the unusual hype by the corporate media houses to divert the attention of commoners, unavailability of promotion platforms of admirable[Read More…]

by 07/12/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Between Sehwag’s Fascist Tweets And My Brothers Painful Ordeal

Between Sehwag’s Fascist Tweets And My Brothers Painful Ordeal

Dear Veeru (Virendra Sehwag); yesterday as I came back from my work and was checking pictures of my younger brother, a known cricketer of south Kashmir who is currently behind the bars, I came through a news from  different news portals  that “Sehwag Hails Security Forces for Eliminating over 200 Terrorists This Year, Congratulates Them On A ‘Double Century’.” Let me[Read More…]

by 04/12/2017 2 comments Kashmir
CBM’s For The Youth!

CBM’s For The Youth!

(Recalling youth from violence through confidence building measures is good but the question is why did the youth take to violence in the first place?) The Chief Minister has announced amnesty for the first time stone pelters. The cases against these would be reviewed and withdrawn. The initiative is supposed to have been taken on the advice of the new[Read More…]

by 30/11/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Plight of Kashmiri Prisoners

Plight of Kashmiri Prisoners

V.R. Krishna Iyer (J) has rightly observed : “In our world prisons are still laboratories of torture, warehouses in which human commodities are sadistically kept and where spectrums of inmates range from drift-wood juveniles to heroic dissenters. It is established that conviction for a crime does not reduce the person into a non-person, so he is entitled to all the[Read More…]

by 29/11/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir Conflict: Revisiting Nehru’s Legacy

Kashmir Conflict: Revisiting Nehru’s Legacy

  With the end of British paramountcy on 15th August 1947 India’s towering leader, Jawaharlal Nehru, famously declared India’s ‘tryst with destiny’. What followed the aspirational beginning of a new India was light years away from Nehru’s democratic socialism or secularism . Hundreds & thousands of Muslim refugees were killed, if not with the consent of Nehru, but at least[Read More…]

by 24/11/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir On “Auto-Pilot”!

Kashmir On “Auto-Pilot”!

(People allege that the governance is missing in Kashmir but in reality, the State has been put on an “Auto-Pilot” like an aircraft taking a long range flight!) It is usual practice with the flight crew of a long range passenger aircraft goingon long flights usually inter-continental ones, to put the aircraft on “Auto-Pilot”. The “Auto-Pilot” controls all functions of[Read More…]

by 23/11/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Flood Channel, Invitation To Disaster!

Flood Channel, Invitation To Disaster!

(The present condition of the flood spill over channel is such that even a small flood can turn into a disaster!) For last three years various engineering departments have been inspecting, debating and discussing flood prevention measures to prevent any disastrous floods in future. The 2014 flood which was the most disastrous to have occurred in a century, has not[Read More…]

by 16/11/2017 2 comments Kashmir
An Irony Called Talks

An Irony Called Talks

After another Uprising Indian Government resorted to its last  option ‘dialogue’ to bring back ‘normalcy’ in Kashmir. Since July 8 2016, when famous militant commander Burhan Wani got killed in an alleged encounter by Indian security forces, it has been a tough time for state as well as central government to settle down the nerves. It has  been a norm for Government[Read More…]

by 06/11/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
End Repression Before Talks!

End Repression Before Talks!

(For any dialogue to succeed the primary requirement is a conducive environment. One cannot ask somebody to talk by holding a gun to his temple!) It is a very welcome initiative from Government of India to hold talks with all stake holders in Kashmir to resolve the basic problem and bring peace to the area. Kashmir problem has been hanging[Read More…]

by 02/11/2017 3 comments Kashmir
The Bijbehara Massacre

The Bijbehara Massacre

Twenty four years ago, on 22 October 1993, Bijbehara, my hometown, was struck by a vicious massacre that killed scores of peaceful protestors who were demanding revocation of a military siege of famous shrine, Dargah Hazratbal. According to the state government’s own magisterial enquiry report, “a procession of 2,000 to 3,000 people” that was “entirely peaceful and unarmed” was attacked[Read More…]

by 21/10/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Mental Health In The Valley Of Kashmir- A Gloomy Scenario

Mental Health In The Valley Of Kashmir- A Gloomy Scenario

  HEALTH-this term needs no introduction after all our cordial conversations are filled with it which goes like this, “kya haal,sehat cha  theeki” (how are you and how is your health?). But how often do we use the term “mental health”?” “zehni tabyat cha theek” (how is your mental health)perhaps our etiquettes don’t allow it!! But why? Are not our[Read More…]

by 15/10/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Believe Me I Am Not A Braid Chopper

Believe Me I Am Not A Braid Chopper

While coming back from work, I got in to a Sumo. I found a seat beside a nonlocal young boy. He too was travelling back from work, which I came to know later.  While we both were on our way back home, a middle aged lady in a very unusual way asked this nonlocal boy “Why you guys keep chopping[Read More…]

by 09/10/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Who’s Chopping Women’s Braids And Why?

Kashmir: Who’s Chopping Women’s Braids And Why?

Co-Written by Gowhar Naz and Neha Sharma “Braid Chopping”, the name needs no identification; no introduction. The term has spread its terror across whole Jammu and Kashmir.The term more terrifying than any of the deadliest weapon and any other damn thing. But then the mind reverberates and stresses on the “hows” and the “whys” of the incidents.If you say that[Read More…]

by 07/10/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
 Article 35 (A) And The Fallacy Surrounding It

 Article 35 (A) And The Fallacy Surrounding It

  The clamour having died down, now is a good time to logically dissect the article, separating rhetoric from reason and focussing on the rights issue that lies at its centre. Co-Written By Sheikh Attar and Palvi Singh Ghonkrokta In 2015, the constitutional validity of Article 35(A) was challenged, with a petition filed in the Supreme Court by the Jammu[Read More…]

by 03/10/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Kashmir: Exposing The Myth Behind The Narrative

Kashmir: Exposing The Myth Behind The Narrative

The great enemy of the truth is very often not the lie, deliberate, contrived and dishonest, but the myth, persistent, persuasive and unrealistic (Jhon Kennedy). A myth is a story that survives till it is debunked & during the period of its currency it is more portent & powerful than history. Myth is what we call other people’s religion and[Read More…]

by 29/09/2017 2 comments Book Review, Kashmir
Promoting Adventure Tourism In Kashmir

Promoting Adventure Tourism In Kashmir

  (With unprecedented decline in leisure Tourism, the ideal alternative is to promote Adventure Tourism for which Kashmir has unlimited potential) Tourism in Kashmir has suffered the most serious set-back during the last two years. The activity during the current season has been virtually negligible compared to some earlier years. The figures were supposed to have touched almost two million[Read More…]

by 28/09/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
How Pellet Gun Injuries Ruin Education Of Youth In Kashmir

How Pellet Gun Injuries Ruin Education Of Youth In Kashmir

“13 youth including two teenagers died of pellets since July 2016” The use of pellet guns to quell protestors in Indian administered Kashmir by Indian Army over the years has killed 13 youth and left more than 1000 completely or partially sightless. Ninth class student, Shahid, underwent six operations so far in his left eye in less than a year[Read More…]

by 22/09/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Protecting Kashmiri Identity

Protecting Kashmiri Identity

(The all-out assault launched by the Hindutva forces in completely wiping out the Kashmiri identity necessitates an equally united front from the entire State to defend and safeguard it) The first question is what is “Kashmiri” identity? Kashmiris constitute a nation which is thousands of years old. In fact, a written record of Kashmiri nation penned down by an illustrious[Read More…]

by 21/09/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Memorandum From Kashmir Centre For Social and Development Studies (KCSDS)  To Members of the Visiting Congress Delegation

Memorandum From Kashmir Centre For Social and Development Studies (KCSDS) To Members of the Visiting Congress Delegation

  Kashmir center for social & Development studies(KCSDS) submitted a memorandum to congress delegation headed by former Prime Minster, Sh. Manmohan Singh,visiting J&K on 16th-17th September 2017. KCSDS is an Advocacy Centre and the largest civil society formation in the state. It highlights and carries out advocacy on all issues of economic, social, cultural, environmental and political nature It also[Read More…]

by 17/09/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Flyover To Nowhere!

The Flyover To Nowhere!

(The bits and pieces of the incomplete flyover of Srinagar in fact reflect the true state of Kashmir’s development in almost all sectors!) The most appropriate word to describe the state of developmental activities in Kashmir in any field is “adhocism”! Everything is done on the whims and fancies of the rulers always given to flattery from one and all![Read More…]

by 14/09/2017 1 comment Kashmir
IAPL Condemns The Harassment Of Kashmiri Lawyers By The NIA 

IAPL Condemns The Harassment Of Kashmiri Lawyers By The NIA 

  Lawyers across Kashmir boycotted court work for four consecutive days from 4th to 7th September 2017 against the summoning of the President of High Court Bar Association (JKHCBA), Advocate Mian Qayoom by NIA (National Investigation Agency). The lawyers at Srinagar court complex as well as the High Court had also staged protests under the banner of JKHCBA. They were[Read More…]

by 11/09/2017 2 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
Kashmir: Who Is A Terrorist?

Kashmir: Who Is A Terrorist?

Kashmir continues to withstand turmoil & turbulence and rein of terror from it’s counter establishment. Enough blood had been spilled in the name of freeing Kashmir from contractors of bloodshed from India, but nothing substantial has happened so far in releasing this state from the scotches of galloping ghost. The bloodshed in Kashmir continues unabated without any regional or international[Read More…]

by 31/08/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Enforced Disappearances

Enforced Disappearances

  The international community commemorates 30th day of August as the  International day  of the Disappeared. Kashmir, which has witnessed thousands of enforced disappearances  is commemorating this  day with a renewed appeal to international community to force India to divulge information about the enforced disappearances. In international human rights law, an enforced disappearance  (or involuntary disappearance) occurs when a person is secretly arrested,[Read More…]

by 29/08/2017 1 comment Human Rights, Kashmir
SRINAGAR, FEB 27 (UNI) Troops on a security vehicle entering the 13 Rashitriya Rifles camp in the central Kashmir district of Ganderbal where a soldier shot dead his five colleagues and injured another before committing suicide on Thursday. UNI PHOTO -114U

A Rejoinder To Ata Hasnain

  Former GOC of India’s Srinagar based 15 Corps, Ata Hasnain has written an article in praise of  Rashtriya Rifles (RR) which  appeared first  in South Asia Defence & Strategic Review, and was later reproduced  by Swarajya Magzine The article  is available at https://swarajyamag.com/defence/rashtriya-rifles-the-story-of-independent-indias-finest-military-experiment . Sh. Hasnain, now associated with Vivekanand International Foundation and the Institute of Peace and Conflict[Read More…]

by 28/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Routine Existence Under Crackdowns

Kashmir: Routine Existence Under Crackdowns

Co-Authored by:- Ayaz Nabi Malik/ Muhammad Asif Shah The normal life in Kashmir has always remained an unfulfilled desire as it continues to be threatened by the two Asian nuclear giants- India and Pakistan- who claim it as their territory. With the result, concepts like peace and normalcy became far-fetched notions here as our routine existence continues to be haunted[Read More…]

by 28/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
“Azadi” To “Special Status”

“Azadi” To “Special Status”

(There seems to be a deliberate hype for retaining the so called “Special Status” in order to dilute the universal demand for total freedom called “Azadi”!) Some people have opined that the Central Government has deliberately shifted the focus of Kashmir agitation from “Azadi” to “Special Status”. Almost all so called mainstream political parties are totally worked up by the[Read More…]

by 25/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Article 35 A: Some Myths And Misconceptions

Article 35 A: Some Myths And Misconceptions

  In the cacophony of high decibel debate , Indian media presents article 35A as something which bestows various rights, privileges & favors on people of Kashmir. There can be nothing further from truth when it is repeatedly said & fed to Indian public that article 35A of Indian constitution grants property & employment right to people of Kashmir to[Read More…]

by 17/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
This flag titled The sang-bazan (stone pelters) of Kashmir is #11 in the seriesJatiIndia: Flags of Atrocities Caste, Present and Future. 

India Celebrates Democracy, Kashmir Cries Hypocrisy

India wants to reap the benefits of Islamophobia from which the world is suffering…. the Indian government has to reconcile its own people to body bags coming from Kashmir…. If the Indian people were told the truth that Kashmiris don’t want to be with India, and the struggle here is sustained by them primarily…. the public opinion in India too[Read More…]

by 14/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Scrapping Of Article 35A – Part Of An Agenda

Scrapping Of Article 35A – Part Of An Agenda

  Not much was known about Article 35A  of Indian constitution , till Civil Society of Kashmir smelt a rat in the intentions of  New-Delhi, ruled by  right wing ahistorical Hindutva forces, to scrap it and  initiated a debate on it some three years ago.  Since then much has been said about the article but very little done to save[Read More…]

by 09/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Surging Militancy In Kashmir

Surging Militancy In Kashmir

Kashmir is on the brink once again. The recent surges in military operations and encounters in Kashmir underline the urgency in the official circles to curb militancy and take control of the situation in Kashmir. The visibly tough stand in the approach of the government is in sync with the on ground activities which have placed talks on the backseat, advocating a military course of action instead.

by 07/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Job Market

Kashmir’s Job Market

(The outside workers in Kashmir both skilled and non-skilled result in an outflow of over Rupees 40 crores everyday which could be easily earned by the locals if they were motivated and trained in various jobs!) Kashmir is facing a typical dichotomy in relation to employment of the local youth. According to reports almost a million youth are without any[Read More…]

by 03/08/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Machil Fake Encounter: Hopes Belied

Machil Fake Encounter: Hopes Belied

News reports of 27.07.2017 state that an Armed Forces Tribunal has suspended the life sentences awarded by a General Court Martial in 2014 and which were confirmed in 2015, to five army personnel for the killings of three Kashmiri civilians in April 2010, at Machil. The reason for suspension rests on presentation of ‘facts’ which have allegedly broken the chain[Read More…]

Kashmir’s Neglected Elders!

Kashmir’s Neglected Elders!

Traditionally Elders in Kashmir used to be given all the love and care but the “Modernisation” has left some of them isolated and lonely! The ancient civilisations were always rooted in extended families. People used to live together where the elders were not only respected and cared for but were the guides and the inspiration for the new generations. Kashmir[Read More…]

by 27/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Rest In Peace: Shabir Salaria

Rest In Peace: Shabir Salaria

  The morning newspaper of 21st July brought a sad news. Shabir Salaria, Former advocate General of the State & M.P had passed away, the previous day at the age of 83. Ina lillahi wa ina illahi rajaoon. Many persons have since expressed their grief and condolences to the bereaved family. Among them are leaders & stalwarts of National conference[Read More…]

by 22/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kargil Helicopter Service

Kargil Helicopter Service

Helicopter service to Kargil has been overdue but the real requirement is a regular civilian air connection to the area pending for decades which could put it on the World Tourism Map! It was a pleasant surprise to see a video of the dramatic Nun-Kun peaks in the Suru Valleyof Kargil on the Facebook taken from a helicopter of Pawan[Read More…]

by 20/07/2017 2 comments Kashmir
GST Presidential Order – A Sham

GST Presidential Order – A Sham

  Goods & services tax Act has finally been applied on the State of Jammu & Kahmir . After receiving concurrence from the State Govt., the president of India  has issued an order under section 370(1)   – The constitutional(Application to J&K) Amendment  order 2017—which paves way for application of GST to State The application of GST Act was preceded by[Read More…]

by 10/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Year of Dead Eyes And Death

The Year of Dead Eyes And Death

The Reminiscent of the Beloved Witness-Aga Shahid Ali They ask me to tell them what Shahid means- Listen: It means ‘The Beloved’ in Persian, ‘witness’ in Arabic. (Aga Shahid Ali) From the ancient times, Kashmir has remained a hot seat of learning and scholasticism. The land has produced a great number of writers and intellectuals who wrote about the congeniality[Read More…]

by 09/07/2017 2 comments Kashmir
“Permanent Solution” For Kashmir Problem!

“Permanent Solution” For Kashmir Problem!

The Union Home Minister has declared that there will soon be a “Permanent Solution” for the Kashmir problem. The declaration appears more scary than comforting! Kashmir problem has been hanging fire since the partition of the sub-continent. In fact, the creation of the two countries itself created the problem! Kashmir as an independent sovereign country has a history of more[Read More…]

by 06/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
GST Row: A Critical Analysis Of Baig Formula

GST Row: A Critical Analysis Of Baig Formula

  GST row is refusing to die down. The civil society and every other segment of society has refused to accept it in the present form. Their concern is genuine. The law, if applied in its present form will be a lethal  assault, ever mounted  on the fiscal and political autonomy of our state. To find a way out, the[Read More…]

by 03/07/2017 1 comment Kashmir
GST: How Do We Go From Here?

GST: How Do We Go From Here?

By all indications, Mehbooba Govt. appears all set for lending its approval to adoption of 101st Indian constitutional amendment paving way for application of Goods & Services Tax Act (GST) to the whole state. The bycott by NC Govt. to the 2nd round of All party meeting is all a soap opera drama . With this application, the last post[Read More…]

by 29/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Anarchy And impotence!

Anarchy And impotence!

(The two words which describe the present Kashmir situation appropriately!) The Cambridge dictionary defines “Anarchy” as “a situation in which there is no organisation and control, especially in society, because there is no effective government”. The word “impotence” is defined as, “lack of power to change or improve a situation”. In almost every front whether civil society, or the government[Read More…]

by 29/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Islamophobia: Does It Has To Do Anything With The Rise Of Militancy In Kashmir

Islamophobia: Does It Has To Do Anything With The Rise Of Militancy In Kashmir

  Islamophobia contextually is a global phenomenon, exacerbating an intense dislike or fear of Islam especially as a political force, hostility or prejudice towards Muslims. The term Islamophobia started being used in the early 20th century and emerged as a neologism in the 1970s and reached public policy prominence with the report by the Runnymede Trust‘s Commission on British Muslims and Islamophobia (CBMI).[Read More…]

by 23/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Soudagars And Dalals Of Kashmir

Soudagars And Dalals Of Kashmir

  Soudagar & Dalal are  two urdu words  which  generally find a mention in the lexicon  of  trade & commerce. The former means a merchant or simply  a  person who trades in goods or merchandise while the later refers to a person who acts as a go-between between a seller & purchaser . When you read this article fully, you[Read More…]

by 21/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Cool Kashmir, Boiling Sub-continent!

Cool Kashmir, Boiling Sub-continent!

Presently the Physical Climate in Kashmir and the rest of the sub-continent is quite unpredictable and could turn scary! There has been a significant change in the physical climate both in the entire sub-continent and the Valley of Kashmir. Apparently it is part of the global climate change. In the middle of June it has snowed on Baderwah Mountains and[Read More…]

by 15/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir, South Asia
The Oversimplification Of The Kashmir Conundrum

The Oversimplification Of The Kashmir Conundrum

In a recent article in The Wire, Partha Chaterjee had referred to the use of human shield in Kashmir, and its justification by the military and political establishment as Kashmir’s General Dyer moment. Vivek Katju has launched a spirited counter-attack to this claim of Partha Chaterjee. Katju states that, “It is one matter for an army to handle the breakdown[Read More…]

by 14/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Was Kashmir Plebiscite Forestalled By Pakistan’s Failure To Withdraw Troops?

Was Kashmir Plebiscite Forestalled By Pakistan’s Failure To Withdraw Troops?

Almost all Indians, when reminded of the promise of a plebiscite made to people of J&K to ascertain their wishes, blame Pakistan for forestalling holding of one, primarily due to her failure to withdraw forces from the portion occupied by her as prescribed under relevant UN resolution. Many of my fellow countrymen nurse the same opinion. It is, therefore in[Read More…]

by 11/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir, A Separate Country!

Kashmir, A Separate Country!

(UN showing Kashmir as a separate country confirms the historical fact known right from the ancient times!) There was recently a news item about the UN showing Kashmir as a separate country in some of its documents. The United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) have depicted Jammu & Kashmir as a “separate country”. In the “Advanced search[Read More…]

by 08/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Not War Against Its Own People But Dialogue Is Need Of The Hour

Kashmir: Not War Against Its Own People But Dialogue Is Need Of The Hour

“Not war against our own citizens, but dialogue with all stakeholders in Kashmir, including emerging youth leadership, is the only way to resolve the Kashmir issue.” – This was a common view expressed by all the speakers at a lecture programme on ‘Kashmiriyonka Najariya :Vastavaur Mithak’ (Kashmiri Peoples’ Perspective : Myth & Reality’) held on 3rd June 2017 at Shramik Patrakar Bhavan, Pune.

by 06/06/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Service Brat, Identity And Nationalism

Service Brat, Identity And Nationalism

Many recent posts of mine on Facebook – especially those dealing with the vexing issue of our respected Indian Army using a Kashmiri, and by all accounts a genuine citizen out to exercise his franchise, have been met with strange and often strong reactions – virtually telling me that as a daughter and wife of two former Navy Chiefs I[Read More…]

by 01/06/2017 5 comments Human Rights, Kashmir
Vietnam War Memories Revived!

Vietnam War Memories Revived!

(The photograph of human shield and the subsequent award to the perpetrator of human rights violation have put the Army as well as the country in a very poor light!) A photograph of Farooq Ahmad Dar, a weaver from a village in Badgam Kashmir, tied to the front of an Army jeep and paraded through 30 odd villages during the[Read More…]

by 01/06/2017 3 comments Kashmir
Mani Shankar Aiyar On Wrong Foot

Mani Shankar Aiyar On Wrong Foot

  This write-up is in response to the interview of veteran congressman, Mani Shankar Aiyar, published in daily  Rising Kashmir of 24th May 2017. Let me say at the outset that I hold Aiyar in highest esteem for his unwavering commitment to secularism. Sticking to  secular views against heavy odds  and  even after his party and its mandarins adopted ‘soft[Read More…]

by 26/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Idea, Not leaders!

Kashmir: Idea, Not leaders!

(Kashmir’s new revolution is following an idea and not any particular leaders!) Recently, there was a sting operation conducted by a TV network regarding money being received by some of the leaders of the present movement for “Azadi”. In fact, the discovery was proclaimed all over the country like the discovery of the principle of floatation by Archimedes who ran[Read More…]

by 25/05/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Tale of Tahir , Who Dreamed To Become A Journalist ,Is Now Behind The Bars

Tale of Tahir , Who Dreamed To Become A Journalist ,Is Now Behind The Bars

Tahir Ahmad Mir, a student of Journalism of Kashmir university is a criminal in the opinion of the police because of his alleged involvement of pro-freedom activities and is behind the bars for the   last long six months. Tahir was arrested in November allegedly for having involvement in pro-freedom activities during the peak of 2016 uprising. A resident of Kashmir’s[Read More…]

by 18/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir, A Way Forward

Kashmir, A Way Forward

Kashmir is said to be paradise on earth. However when India started implementing its policy of ” Kashmir baharat ka atoot ang hai  ( Kashmir is a integral part of India ) ”  , Kashmir once the valley of red apples became the valley of blood. Successive Indian governments couldn’t resolve the problem and  Kashmiris kept the pot boiling. There[Read More…]

by 13/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
UN Urges India To Lift Social Media Ban In Kashmir

UN Urges India To Lift Social Media Ban In Kashmir

Raising alarm over the impact of internet and social media restrictions imposed by authorities in Kashmir, United Nations human rights experts have called on the Government of India to protect the right to freedom of expression and to pursue an open and democratic dialogue to address the region’s social and political conflicts. The UN special rapporteur on freedom of opinion[Read More…]

by 13/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The New “Iron Curtain”!

The New “Iron Curtain”!

(The Digital India has failed to control the Social Life in Kashmir in spite of the strongest curbs ever put on all the social networking sites sand TV channels!) In the erstwhile Soviet Union there was such a blackout of communications with the outside world that the measure got the name of the “Iron Curtain”. It was virtually an Iron[Read More…]

by 12/05/2017 Comments are Disabled Kashmir
Of Frequent Net Ban: A Repressive And A Vindictive New Norm       

Of Frequent Net Ban: A Repressive And A Vindictive New Norm       

The best possible option with the clueless state government would be to call a spade a spade and stop this provocative Net banning ritual. Instead the Centre should start the institution of “unconditional dialogue” with all concerned stakeholders to put out this long-burning fire. There is no point in trying to divert the focus from the core to its surface.

by 06/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Generals Call For Political Solution!

Kashmir: Generals Call For Political Solution!

(Recently a number of retired Generals of the Army including a former Army Chief have opined that Kashmir needs a political solution rather than a military one!) In a recent interview, the former Chief of the Army Staff General Ved Prakash Malik said that Kashmir needs a political solution and bringing peace is not solely the task of the Indian[Read More…]

by 04/05/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Internet Service Officially Banned In Kashmir For One Month 

Internet Service Officially Banned In Kashmir For One Month 

Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered suspension of internet services in the trouble-hit valley for a period of one month or till further orders. In an order, the Home Department has said that internet services in Kashmir valley shall not be transmitted for a period of one month or till further orders. The state home department invoked powers conferred on[Read More…]

by 28/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Every Story Has Two Sides: Kashmir Is No different

Every Story Has Two Sides: Kashmir Is No different

http://www.amazon.in/Scattered-Souls-Shahnaz-Bashir/dp/9352641248 I recently finished reading Shahnaz Bashir’s “Scattered Souls”, which is a collection of powerful short stories depicting the price that ordinary citizens living in Kashmir are paying because of excessive militarization. The Indian Government may justify this as much needed policing against the Kashmiri insurgents, to maintain internal security. But with all due to respect to the National Security[Read More…]

by 28/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Is It True?

Kashmir: Is It True?

After violent protests on April 9, the day of by polls to the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, rumors spread that the Mehbooba Mufti government had been dismissed. My next door neighbor, currently based in New Delhi called me on phone and said, ‘’I don’t know how to break this news to you, but Mehbooba Mufti is not now J &K[Read More…]

by 26/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
As Colleges re-open, Clashes In Kashmir

As Colleges re-open, Clashes In Kashmir

As colleges opened on Monday in Kashmir after five days, students of Shri Pratap Higher Secondary school clashed with police in Srinagar. Students held a march from the school premises and marched towards MA road, making their way by breaking the gate of school. The students later blocked road that was followed by clashes between forces and the students. Meanwhile,[Read More…]

by 24/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Time For UN To Act

Kashmir: Time For UN To Act

There has been no transparency in discussions arising from bilateral talks on Kashmir. From the last few years, calling off the Kashmir dispute has been the favourite argument arising out of Indian media commentators and political leaders. It is because of existing narration of implanting fervent Indian nationalism inside Kashmir valley. Economic development, financial incentives and being part of India’s[Read More…]

by 22/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Iqra Is Recovering

Iqra Is Recovering

Student of Nawa Kadal College Srinagar, Iqra, who was injured during the student protests on Monday is stable and recovering in hospital. A resident of Rajouri Kadal, Iqra, was seriously injured after a paramilitary CRPF trooper used his catapult to target her. She was hit by a stone on the left side of her head, caused a concussion and fracture.[Read More…]

by 21/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Why Are You In Deep Slumber Mr. Secretary General?

Why Are You In Deep Slumber Mr. Secretary General?

  The worst crimes against humanity committed by India in Kashmir are going unchallenged. The absence of  any censure or reprimand by the international community particularly UN, is taken  as a  license or tacit  permission by India to continue with its dastardly & grotesque  action  of annihilating the natives of the place, physically, socially & economically. And while as the[Read More…]

by 21/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Flood 2017: Yet Another Nightmare!

Kashmir Flood 2017: Yet Another Nightmare!

(Srinagar has once again passed through a nightmarish situation due to a sudden flood in River Jhelum. It is nature’s warning for a big one which may hit us soon unless preventive measures are taken on a war footing!) Just two days of incessant heavy rain swelled River Jhelum to dangerous flood level. There was panic all over and many[Read More…]

by 20/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
The Army As The Politicians Human Shield?

The Army As The Politicians Human Shield?

              The recent video clip of a civilian strapped to the front of an army vehicle deployed in internal security (IS) operations in Kashmir has made headlines. Many army veterans are defending it as a tactical means to avoid stone-pelting and thus permit operations with minimal bloodshed of protestors and army personnel alike. Some journalists aver that this tactic[Read More…]

by 20/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
An Open Letter From A Kashmiri Student To The People Of India

An Open Letter From A Kashmiri Student To The People Of India

Dear all I am a Kashmiri student of psychology. While studying the topic of resistance to persuasion, I came across this: “Few of us like orders or being told what to do. We all have probably experienced advertisers, politicians or individuals pressurising us to change our attitude about some issue.  In all such cases if we feel like our personal[Read More…]

by 19/04/2017 16 comments Kashmir
Kashmir On Boil Again As Student Protests Spread

Kashmir On Boil Again As Student Protests Spread

Protests against the Pulwama raids by police have escalated to other towns outside Srinagar. While Srinagar police is battling students in SP College, reports about similar protests came from Shopian, Sopore, Pattan, Gaderbal and now from Kashmir University. Police reportedly used force at almost all places. The students of various colleges boycotted their classes and staged protests inside their college[Read More…]

by 17/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir : A Human Rights Hell

Kashmir : A Human Rights Hell

Kashmir is undoubtedly the human rights hell of the world . The tale of human misfortune in Kashmir is of unprecedented nature. Every form of brutal human rights violations and tactics of suppression have been committed against the masses of Kashmir to quell their sentiments of solution and right to self determination . Most of the voices of conscience in[Read More…]

by 17/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Today Needs A Healing Touch

Kashmir Today Needs A Healing Touch

What is the meaning of victory of Farooq Abdullah from the Srinagar constituency where not even 7% votes polled. In many of the booths merely 2% votes were polled. I know there are past precedences of such a situation in at least three Indian states when people boycotted and government determinedly went for polls and were ‘able’ to form governments.[Read More…]

by 17/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmiri Youth Tied In Front Of Army Jeep As Human Shield

Kashmiri Youth Tied In Front Of Army Jeep As Human Shield

A Kashmiri civilian is tied to an Indian army jeep as a human shield in Beerwa, Budgam area of Kashmir. The Indian army personnel on the top of the jeep is warning local Kashmiris of same fate if they pelt stones. Former chief minister Omar Abdullah has tweeted a photograph and a video, showing a Kashmiri youth tied by Indian[Read More…]

by 14/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Election “Balloon” Deflated!

Kashmir: Election “Balloon” Deflated!

  (Total boycott accompanied by gruesome mayhem clearly shows the oft bandied “Balloon” of elections has been fully deflated!) George Bernard Shaw had said “Democracy is a balloon filled with hot air. Fools watch it when it rises and the clever pick their pockets”! This has been happening in Kashmir from the very start. The best excuse oft used by[Read More…]

by 13/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Case For A Truth And Reconciliation Commission In Kashmir

The Case For A Truth And Reconciliation Commission In Kashmir

The recent deaths of eight young civilians on the polling day once again underscores the need move beyond the sovereignty versus azaadi debate or even the embittered dynamics of the neighbourhood territorial dispute and mend fences closer home, before the embers of dissatisfaction spill over the streets again.The narrative should shift stance on justice dispensation, a crucial facet, which is often ignored by the political class and state institutions alike.

by 11/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Internet Shut Down In Srinagar

Internet Shut Down In Srinagar

Internet services in three districts falling under the Srinagar Parliamentary constituency, going to polls tomorrow, will be shut down from midnight as a precautionary measure to prevent floating of rumours by anti- national elements. Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal, which form part of the Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, will have no Internet connections amid reports that Pakistan-based groups were engaged in[Read More…]

by 09/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Unseasonal Rain And Snow Wreak Havoc In Kashmir

Unseasonal Rain And Snow Wreak Havoc In Kashmir

Due to continuous rain and snow, two passengers went missing after a cab plunged into river in Dandipora Kokernag area of Islamabad district of Jammu & Kashmir on Thursday afternoon. The vehicle in which eight passengers were travelling from Kokernag to Larnoo, plunged into Nalla Brangi, said SHO Larnoo, while talking with Counter currents. Six people were rescued with the[Read More…]

by 06/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Stone Pelters Are Fighting For A Cause: Farooq Abdullah

Kashmir’s Stone Pelters Are Fighting For A Cause: Farooq Abdullah

Former Chief Minister and Supremo of National Conference (NC) Dr Farooq Abdullah, on Wednesday come out in support of stone pelters in Kashmir and lashed out at the Modi government. Former CM , Farooq Abdullah Who is also contesting the by-election to Srinagar Lok Sabha seat as the joint candidate of opposition National Conference and Congress. While reacting to Prime[Read More…]

by 06/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Hindu Rashtra And Kashmir!

The Hindu Rashtra And Kashmir!

  (With the unprecedented victory of BJP in the U.P. elections giving rise to militant Hindutva proclaiming India to be a Hindu Rashtra, the relationship of Kashmir to India loses the very basic premise of accession!) After the recent phenomenal success in the U.P. elections, the RSS is going full steam ahead to give practical shape to Golwalkar’s dream of[Read More…]

by 06/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
I’m Human, Right?

I’m Human, Right?

  “Human rights are rights inherent to all human beings, whatever our nationality, place of residence, sex, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status. We are all equally entitled to our human rights without discrimination. These rights are all interrelated, interdependent and indivisible.” – Office Of High Commissioner, Human Rights  Referring to the definition given above,[Read More…]

by 05/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmiris Not Against Tourism, Neither Supporters Of Terrorism: APHC

Kashmiris Not Against Tourism, Neither Supporters Of Terrorism: APHC

Reacting to the recent statement of PM Narendra Modi where-in he asked the Kashmiri youth to choose between terrorism and tourism, the APHC in a statement said , ” Kashmiris were not against the tourism, neither were they supporters of terrorism” . Stating that the Kashmiris were not against the development and progress, the All Parties Hurriyat Conference ( APHC)[Read More…]

by 04/04/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Image Credit: FirstPost

Post-Sept 29 Surgical Strikes, Frequency Of Terror Incidents Increased, Locals In Militant Ranks Swelled

Jammu and Kashmir witnessed no thaw in the militant activities, killings, fresh recruitments and infiltration attempts even after the September 29, 2016 surgical strike claim across the line of control (LOC) of the central government. On 29 September, 2016 i.e. eleven days after the Uri attack, the Indian army said it had conducted surgical strikes against suspected militants in Pakistani-administered[Read More…]

by 03/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Grenade Attack At Nowhatta, Srinagar : Policeman Killed, Around A Dozen Personnel Injured

Grenade Attack At Nowhatta, Srinagar : Policeman Killed, Around A Dozen Personnel Injured

One policeman named Shamin Ahmad was killed while around a dozen injured after unidentified gunmen lobbed a grenade at a joint party of police and paramilitary CRPF in Nowhatta area of Srinagar downtown Sunday evening. “Constable Shamim Ahmad was killed in the grenade attack,” Police said. The police constable and other injured policemen were rushed to hospital for treatment but[Read More…]

by 03/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
PM Modi Inaugurates Chenani – Nashri Tunnel, Kashmir Observs Shut down

PM Modi Inaugurates Chenani – Nashri Tunnel, Kashmir Observs Shut down

Udhampur: Amid high alert and multi-tiered security, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, India’s longest road tunnel on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway today, making it operational for traffic. Multi-tier security was put in place ahead of the Prime Minister’s visit amid alert along the border and high degree of vigilance in Jammu and Kashmir. However reports suggest that there[Read More…]

by 02/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Tell Me How Long  Have I To Wait For A Peaceful Kashmir?

Tell Me How Long  Have I To Wait For A Peaceful Kashmir?

The each death on the streets of Kashmir resonate the belief that Kashmir once called paradise on earth has become a lost paradise on earth. The streets are witness to blood oozing out from warm bodies.The place of encounter sites reiterates the support and desire to live in a peaceful Kashmir. The brutal killings of innocent people on the streets[Read More…]

by 02/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
J&K Tops Chart In Issuing Gun-Licences

J&K Tops Chart In Issuing Gun-Licences

Believe it or not but Jammu and Kashmir has become second state in the country which has issued highest number of Gun Licenses in the country. J&K is second only after the country’s most populous state in the country, Uttar Pradesh where Deputy Commissioner’s have issued more than 3 lakh gun licenses. In Utter Pradesh, more than 1277914 persons have[Read More…]

by 02/04/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir – China Relationship

Kashmir – China Relationship

(China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which includes Gilgit-Baltistan area of the erstwhile State of Jammu & Kashmir can revive historical connection of Kashmir with China)  Presently, the China Pakistan Economic Corridor is the hot news. The project is being implemented by China and Pakistan at an accelerated pace. Work in full swing started on it in 2015 after an agreement[Read More…]

by 30/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Of Resistance And Politics

Kashmir: Of Resistance And Politics

Kashmir over the years has been presented as an internal issue to the international forums by Indian state or merely a “law and order” situation. Historically whenever people in Kashmir have demanded their rights, the state has responded by trampling more rights. The latest developing trend is that the pop-up war rooms, The big Indian media houses, their paid analysts[Read More…]

by 29/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir’s Physical Isolation!

Kashmir’s Physical Isolation!

(The National Highway presently connecting Kashmir Valley to the outside world is in the throes of death and there is urgent need to find an alternative) Kashmir valley remained cut off during the current winter a number of times. This was due to the closure of the National Highway connecting it with Jammu, the only land route presently available during[Read More…]

by 23/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
The Forgotten “Flood”!

The Forgotten “Flood”!

The way the authorities are destroying the flood channel with peoples’ connivance gives one the feeling that the most destructive flood of the century has been totally forgotten both by the authorities as well as the people!  The other day late in the night there was movement of road clearing machinery in Jawahar Nagar. On being asked what was happening[Read More…]

by 09/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Application Of Central Statistical Act To J&K State

Application Of Central Statistical Act To J&K State

  The wall of special status accorded to State of J&K is being demolished brick by brick. The latest in the series of  New-Delhi’s demolition drives is to amend Collection of Statistics Act, 2008 (hereinafter referred to as Central Act )so as to apply it to  the State of  Jammu and Kashmir. The Union Cabinet has already approved the  proposal[Read More…]

by 09/03/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Pandit Return “Resolution” !

Kashmir Pandit Return “Resolution” !

(The J & K Assembly some time back passed a resolution for the return of migrant Pandits. Will mere passing of a resolution be enough to facilitate their return?) One felt very nostalgic recently during the celebrations of the famous Pandit festival of Herath. The festival used to be celebrated on two days. The first day Pandits would perform the[Read More…]

by 02/03/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir, As A Bridge Between India And Pakistan?

Kashmir, As A Bridge Between India And Pakistan?

Many things have been said and done about Kashmir. Its political situation is over exploited by all sides to utilize its name elsewhere. Kashmir is a victim of constant sufferings, unrest, human rights violations, violence and also has been made as a tool to ‘curse’. India and Pakistan, since their separation in 1947 are still in conflict with each other[Read More…]

by 28/02/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Burhan Wani  – A resistive remembrance.

Burhan Wani  – A resistive remembrance.

Quoting Derek O’brein, “Burhan Wani has proved more dangerous in his grave than in his living room”. An according statement defining the prevalence of Wani among the emotional mush of Kashmiris, peculiarly youth. After the endemic police claimed to trace Wani’s phone calls, which lead them to his highly frisked location. A gullibly ridding statement, “He would have been spared[Read More…]

by 28/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Is Kashmir Ecology A Neglected Dimension Between Peace and Security?

Is Kashmir Ecology A Neglected Dimension Between Peace and Security?

The Vale of Kashmir division, as the professional geographers mention, owes its political and linguistic unity to its isolation, due to its peculiar geographical position in the subcontinent.The narratives of chroniclers, though tell us a lot of its pleasant topo-geography-which resembles too much with that of Central Asia seen in the past. But having said that, with the passage of[Read More…]

by 26/02/2017 6 comments Kashmir
Arrogance Of Power In Kashmir

Arrogance Of Power In Kashmir

Travesty of justicle scaled up the heights. It hurts, deeply. Pellets. Serious crimes. killings. Allegations. I wonder if we’ll ever live without this sense of fear – the fear that you or your loved one will never return as they step out of the house. There have been times when I’ve been struck by this anxiety and seized by apprehension.[Read More…]

by 24/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Conflict And Rapes In Kashmir

Conflict And Rapes In Kashmir

“Rape” the word carries with it a host of meanings and in East or Orient cultural baggage too. The term signifies violence, anger, atrocity, patriarchy, imposition and coercive submission. It is particularly used by men against women or children, though in rare cases men can be victim of rape too in particular sodomy. Rapes have been happening in the past[Read More…]

by 23/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: A Simmering Volcano!

Kashmir: A Simmering Volcano!

(In spite of a lull after the last year’s upheaval, the whole of Kashmir seems to be simmering like a volcano waiting to eruptanytime without any warning!) Kashmir has witnessed a number of upheavals spearheaded by the youth in the recent years starting from the Amarnath land row of 2008. However, the “Burhan Tsunami” of last July was the most[Read More…]

by 23/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Where’s The Justice For Kunan Poshpora?

Where’s The Justice For Kunan Poshpora?

If the news of Mohammad Fazili, the man who was incarcerated for 12 years with regard to the 2005 Delhi blasts, haunted you for all the torture, misdemeanour and atrocity committed by the police force, know that this is but only a common affair for the citizens of Kashmir. Kashmir, the world’s largest militarized zone, holds record for another dishearteningly[Read More…]

by 23/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Pellet Hit Umar Nazir -An Untold Story

Pellet Hit Umar Nazir -An Untold Story

 Recently I came back to my home from Jammu. On reaching Banihall I went directly towards the railway station amid cold, and drizzle. I was trembling due to biting cold. Finally jumped inside the train after waiting for 30 minutes, I luckily found a seat next to the innocent and cute 11 years old boy wearing spectacles. It was the[Read More…]

by 09/02/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Living In Cocoons!

Kashmir: Living In Cocoons!

 The excessive security measures have forced Kashmiris, historically reputed to be very sociable people, to live in cocoons with only interactions through social networking sites on the internet! The events of the nineties of the last century when armed militancy erupted in the state forced Kashmiris to mostly confine to their homes. There was violence all around with encounters, clashes,[Read More…]

by 09/02/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir Choked By The “New Maharajas”!

Kashmir Choked By The “New Maharajas”!

While the Kashmir valley is physically and politically choked, the “New Maharajas” are enjoying the pleasant climate of Jammu and celebrating the erstwhile Maharaja’s birthday! Kashmir valley has been politically “choked” right from 1947. The expression of true aspirations is an “anti-national” act in Kashmir. Now added to this political choking has come the physical choking! During last couple of[Read More…]

by 02/02/2017 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: What Next?

Kashmir: What Next?

It creates a unique situation where the lack of faith in any political ideology creates a huge vacuum which can be easily exploited to foment trouble . A key issue then, is to engage the state youth that accounts for over 60% of the state’s population, with the younger generation taking centre stage in this new political discourse that challenges status quo and proffers a more realistic alternative to fill this void.

by 31/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Why Ban Mobile Internet In Kashmir?

Why Ban Mobile Internet In Kashmir?

  Businesses and public sector services across Kashmir  were badly hit, & still as the ban on Internet services — especially prepaid 2G, 3G mobile internet service — remains suspended for the seventh month in a row. The ban is likely to be effective for some more time. As the authorities are in no mood to restore it. Education, banking,[Read More…]

by 24/01/2017 3 comments Kashmir
Trolling Of Zaira Wasim: Why The Selective Generalisation?

Trolling Of Zaira Wasim: Why The Selective Generalisation?

Social networking sites and media channels are buzzing with the slogan: “We are with her”. Yes, I am talking about Zaira Wasim, who by her achievement made her parents and entire Kashmir very proud. However it remains particularly unknown that who in Kashmir is against her? Although many have expressed their anger about her meeting with Mehbooba Mufti, but that[Read More…]

by 21/01/2017 2 comments Arts/Literature, Kashmir
Kashmir: Valley Of Wildfires

Kashmir: Valley Of Wildfires

Wildfires have become a global phenomenon, increasing in frequency with each passing year. The year 2016 gave frightening memories to Indian forests, with Uttarakhand facing enormous devastation due to wildfires. Later in the year, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed many wildfires, throughout summer and autumn. The gravity of devastation can be better guaged by Parliamentary Standing Committee Report, presenting a gist[Read More…]

The Politics On West Pakistan Refugees

The Politics On West Pakistan Refugees

Mr. K.B.Jandial, the former top bureaucrat of J&K State, has written an article on the controversial decision of the State to issue domicile certificates to West Pakistan Refugees which was published in daily ‘Rising Kashmir’ of 4th Jannuary 2017 (http://www.risingkashmir.com/article/straight-talknever-ceasing-controversies-in-kashmir). The author is short on facts and wrong in conclusion on many facets of this important matter and hence this[Read More…]

by 12/01/2017 3 comments Kashmir
System Failure In Kashmir

System Failure In Kashmir

Just a foot of snow throws life out of gear which is a system failure due tolack of accountability at the top management level Kashmir has seen many heavy snowfalls in the past. In fact, sometimes even three feet of snow has accumulated in a day or so. Because of massive and sudden snow falls in the past the government[Read More…]

by 12/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Why Is The Indian Government Wary Of Dialogue With Movement Leaders In Kashmir?

Why Is The Indian Government Wary Of Dialogue With Movement Leaders In Kashmir?

Co-Written by Dr. P.S. Sahni&Shobha Aggarwal “We, all of us, have to hang down our heads in shame for all the follies and crimes that are taking place in Kashmir today … we ourselves have forfeited the trust of the people of the Kashmir valley … India’s democracy can never sustain itself by stamping the jackboot on the people …[Read More…]

by 06/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Understanding Kashmiri Aspirations

Understanding Kashmiri Aspirations

The motivators of various initiatives to bring peace to Kashmir first need to understand the sentiments and the aspirations of Kashmiris An unprecedented uprising has just somewhat abated after five months. The uprising which had been triggered by the killing of a local militant leader of Tral, Burhan Wani had acted as a Tsunami sweeping away everything in its path.[Read More…]

by 05/01/2017 1 comment Kashmir
Doomed And Duplicitous Education System In Kashmir

Doomed And Duplicitous Education System In Kashmir

‘And just because you have colleges and universities doesn’t mean you have education.’ – Malcolm X Public Education System is a mechanism of delivering education to the children of the community at public expense. This includes of a chain of schools and pre-colleges delivering free education to the citizenry, throughout the hinterlands of a country. Due to a variety of[Read More…]

by 04/01/2017 2 comments Kashmir
After The Storm, A Tornado?

After The Storm, A Tornado?

(One may weather a storm but tornados, also called twisters are very difficult to handle!) Kashmiri has most of the time been an unpredictable character. In the middle of an uprising which breaks out like a storm one gets the feeling that the game is over and soon Kashmir would be “free” but then comes a time when one wonders[Read More…]

by 29/12/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Now You Don’t See Me, Now You Don’t-JatiIndia: A Flag of Atrocities Caste, Present And Future

Now You Don’t See Me, Now You Don’t-JatiIndia: A Flag of Atrocities Caste, Present And Future

An interview with MuslimPress Why did you choose the name “Jatiindia” for your work? What’s the significance of this name? Inequality exists in societies all across the globe. Designed by Brahmanism (which came before Hinduism), the caste system is a uniquely cruel and immutable version of this phenomenon because it has been conveniently sanctioned by the Hindu religion. The Indian[Read More…]

Kashmir: Flood Protection Measures

Kashmir: Flood Protection Measures

(In spite of a lapse of more than two years, one is still waiting for the execution of the urgent and credible flood protection measures leaving an option open for the next disaster!) The most destructive flood in a century occurred in Kashmir in September, 2014. It was an unprecedented disaster in our living memory. Even though the loss of[Read More…]

by 22/12/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Of Mosques And Grassroots: The Sites Of Resistance In Kashmir

Of Mosques And Grassroots: The Sites Of Resistance In Kashmir

After the killing of Hizb commander BurhanWani, loudspeakers in mosques across Kashmir were abuzz with pro-freedom songs. An atmosphere of emotional commotion prevailed and sentiments were high. After Burhan’s killing, Kashmir witnessed one of the longest and largest strikes in her history under Indian occupation (Jean Dreze calls it one of the longest in Indian history, Kashmir’s Hidden Uprising, The[Read More…]

by 20/12/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Is Anything Straight In Kashmir?

Is Anything Straight In Kashmir?

If one examines various aspects of life in Kashmir, a question comes up whether anything works in a straight way here? There is an Arab saying about the Camel. It goes like this, “O, Camel which of your parts is straight?” The saying fits perfectly the life in Kashmir during the present times. Nothing seems to work here in a[Read More…]

by 15/12/2016 2 comments Kashmir
Kashmir: Human Rights Observed In Breach

Kashmir: Human Rights Observed In Breach

Physicians for Human rights (PHR) is a New-York based, nobel peace prize  winner, international organization which attempts to use Science & Medicine to prevent human rights violations around the world.  In its  report of December 2016, Kashmir has found a special mention with respect to latest intifada post killing of Burhan Wani in July 2016. The relevant extracts of the[Read More…]

by 10/12/2016 1 comment Human Rights, Kashmir
Kashmir: Subjugation, Not“Normalcy”!

Kashmir: Subjugation, Not“Normalcy”!

(Peace is slowly returning to Kashmir but it is debatable whether it is in reality a return to “Normalcy” or the people have been subjugated into apparent submission, temporarily?) According to government spokespersons in J & K and New Delhi, Kashmir is returning to normalcy and peace. It is true that the intensity of the uprising which had shut down[Read More…]

by 08/12/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Impractical Lyricism

Kashmir: Impractical Lyricism

Union of crowds and noise lead to chaos; not to any form of solution. Kashmir-movement is a victim of noisy crowd. This noisy movement sponsored by misinformed and unorganised crowd can deteriorate even the existing order, if at all it exists at the first place. The dust gathering Kashmir issue is of phenomenal proportions—is a massive headache paining the whole[Read More…]

by 01/12/2016 3 comments Kashmir
Plebiscite, Kashmir And The Indian State – Experiments With Untruth

Plebiscite, Kashmir And The Indian State – Experiments With Untruth

    After India’s Independence the people of Kashmir were promised that a plebiscite would be held so that the Kashmiris could decide their future. There is a United Nations resolution to the effect but it stands unimplemented. The struggle of Kashmiris for right to self determination has resulted in killing of over a hundred thousand people since the 1989[Read More…]

by 25/11/2016 3 comments Kashmir
Kashmir’s Stakeholders!

Kashmir’s Stakeholders!

Dialogue among all the “Stakeholders” is the present refrain but one could ask who the real “Stakeholders” are and what stakes they have? The “Burhan Uprising” has shaken not only people in the sub-continent but across the world. It is for the first time in the recent history of the Kashmir’s Movement for the right of self-determination that the people[Read More…]

by 24/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Solidarity With The Peoples Of Kashmir

Solidarity With The Peoples Of Kashmir

New Delhi, 22 November 2016: We, twenty-five citizens of India, representing people’s movements, women’s organisations, trade unions, human rights organisations, youth organisations and individuals who are journalists, writers and filmmakers, from the states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Jammu& Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur,Nagaland, Odisha and Tamil Nadu, visited Kashmir from 11 to 20 November 2016 with the objective of[Read More…]

by 23/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: In Search Of Lost Paradise

Kashmir: In Search Of Lost Paradise

Kashmir is a land where everyone across the globe savors its picturesque beauty; Where everyone relishes its wazwan; where everyone craves to come again and again; where everybody bask in the glory of its different seasons. And same is the case with its own people; they too enjoy everything associated with their land except the illegal occupation. Now this paradise[Read More…]

by 20/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Of Kashmir’s Current Eerie Calm

Of Kashmir’s Current Eerie Calm

Since July situation in the Kashmir valley has been turbulent and is showing almost no signs of coming back to what we call normalcy. Now in November, even after four months of terrible agony, an eerie calm is prevailing which is by no means an indication of peace. After the demise of Burhan Wani, Kashmir witnessed a Tsunami of great[Read More…]

by 20/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Kashmir: Sadbhavana To Scorched Earth!

Kashmir: Sadbhavana To Scorched Earth!

Goodwill of late nineties has been replaced by the worst form of repression reminiscent of the Scorched Earth policies of retreating armies in the Second World War! The decade of the nineties of the last century witnessed the most violent period in the recent history of Kashmir. It was the decade of the armed uprising. There was violence all around.[Read More…]

by 17/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir
Burhan Wani And Kashmir Struggle

Burhan Wani And Kashmir Struggle

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it’s time to reform (or pause & reflect). ~ Mark Twain once remarked. Soon after hearing about the death of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Muzaffar Wani a sea of people filled up all the streets and corners of the valley. On the road that oddly bisects my village I witnessed[Read More…]

by 16/11/2016 1 comment Kashmir