In Jammu & Kashmir’s convoluted lexicon, which is mostly dominated by Tehreek-e-Azadi, an individual who fights against Indian rule in Kashmir and, in the course, loses his life is a martyr. Many Kashmiris, especially those who believe in secession from India, will tell you that the Indian state is the “oppressor” in Kashmir. The narrative…
Each episode of violence in Kashmir reminds us that it is unlike any other place. Peace is relative in the Valley, so is violence. More than 50 people have been killed and over 5,000 (including civilians and security personnel) injured in the unrest that followed the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani by security…
Dear Pradhan Sevak of India, On January 19, 2015, that is today, Hindus of the Kashmir valley will complete 25 years of forced exile away from their home. Ah! A Silver Jubilee of Exile! 25 years of homelessness. 25 years of loss. 25 years of desolation. 25 years of melancholy. 25 years of longing. 25 winters. Your…
January 19 marks the exodus/displacement day of Kashmiri Hindus from the valley. The Hindus of Kashmir valley started leaving Kashmir on this day in 1990 because their blood was sought by Islamic fanatics. Around four lakh Kashmiri Pandits took a hard decision of leaving their ancestral homeland in order not to get slain. They left…
Mexican writer Carlos Fuentes says, “Writing is struggle against silence”. I say, writing is struggle against distortions too. Whenever there is an attempt to distort your story, you have to raise your voice and reiterate your story because your story, the truth, is the struggle for your existence. More so when you are away from…