Kashmir First - Reflections

Sir you are right. We are resilient and tolerant. But if we look into our selves closely - are we true Muslims. Look into our deeds. Look into our behaviour. Look around what is happening. No sympathy for fellow citizens. Respect is a forgotten thing, and purity of thought has crossed the pirpanchal range. BADDIYANTI, BE IMANI, LOOT MAR, KAMEENA PANTI, JAHILSAZI, BADKARI, adultery and drug addiction and alcohol drinking all are on the peak. I have seen myself. I am not lying. This is a fact. All that is happening in Kashmir is not happening in Mumbai or Delhi. I have visited almost the whole country. Some times I become very frustrated. Isn’t Allah punishing us? When it is raining it rains till floods. When the Sun comes out it flushes out not rays but heat waves. When crops or fruits ripen either hails or rains do their part.
Iqbal writes -"qom kya chheez hain qomoon ki amamt kya hai yeh kya janeinge doo rak'et ke imam"

Neo Maharajas. Nothing has changed but only faces.
This is in response to your article,” Back to 1931” which is a nice piece of writing in continuation with your previous article, “Back to 90’s” wherein you have scholarly given us a clear picture of 1931. The after math of the incident of 13 July 1931 which followed the fierce speech of revolutionary Abdul Qadeer Khan who had asked the people to wake up from the deep slumber and put a spirit among the people to fight against the Dogra rule in Kashmir. It is a fact that in the heart of hearts Maharaja had a soft approach towards his subjects even mentioned by the scholars who have done research on the freedom struggle of Kashmir. However the on going suppression committed on the people since 1990’s in particular and from last six decades in general is graver. Lakhs of people were killed which resulted in dozens of new martyr grave yards across the valley. Since 1931 nothing has changed but only faces and now we have Neo Maharajas practicing the same laws and procedures in the art of governance left by the Maharajas as a legacy. However the difference between the Dogra rule and the Indian rule is only that the former forced the people to shout Maharaja Ki Jai while the later is asking the people to shout Jai Hind. I agree with your views that Kashmir suffered a lot from last six decades as compared to the Dogra rule on several fronts socially, economically, politically and morally. Mostly we also witnessed environmental degradation in Kashmir and for that Dal Lake, Wuller Lake, Anchar Lake, and Brari Nambal etc are live examples for us. The story does not end here. We also saw how our green wealth was looted especially during last twenty years of turmoil by the security forces deployed in the forest areas. A number of army vehicles were caught red handed from time to time by the police and this was not the case with the Dogra rule. Therefore one can only say that the present situation in Kashmir is graver than the 1931.

This is in response to your article Back to 1990 wherein you have rightly highlighted the prevailing situation in Kashmir through a historical background & has compared the present situation with the early 90's however the only difference between the two is that in 90's security forces were dealing with militants & now they are killing the unarmed protesters on roads. I agree and appreciate with your view that India is following a double stand while dealing with the people in other states and the protests in Kashmir .I have a great respect for you and your scholarly writing as there is a need of brave and bold scholars like you to this oppressed nation. We are usually talking and giving reference of your articles. I am the regular reader of your articles but today I read your article after a long time on Rising Kashmir on internet as these days news papers have been unofficially banned and the only source of reading news papers are internet.Thankyou

I saw your article “Hemis and Jesus-II” in Kashmir Times today. The contribution is the first of its kind. It embeds an interest which could enhance the constituency of wisdom highly favourable to Kashmir. The caveat however, is that the people of Kashmir have remained hostile to new ideas and comparative study. They are driven by singular bias of for or against. They read and believe news in Kashmiri news papers, most of which do not have a 32 mile reach. Under these circumstances a contribution of this nature may not be noticeable to many. It is a lead contribution.

A very good article. Writers like you on different subjects are on the spot. Please continue this as we have few writers having the guts. We need now to bring it in newspapers in the West, Middle East as that may be the only way to stop these marauders. I have been all the time impressed by your Kashmir first and was my basis in whatever position I was in my humble way to bring that in the conscience of our politicians and civil society.

One thing that has always been a weakness of our movement is the lack of intelligentsia participating in the struggle. However, I see a silver lining in the cloud now. I see a lot of writers like you who are pushing the agenda of Kashmiris and not India or Pakistan. I agree that the western media has a different perspective. But that is more because of the successful way India has been able to misrepresent our struggle and intertwine it with other conflicts in the world. Our job is to change that. We have to stand up for what we are. As you have rightly said, our society is very tolerant and has always been like that. Indians always want to negate that. Even now you see the attempt to connect the Amarnath Yatra with this agitation.

I have lived in the Middle East as well and after careful study have found that our way, the Sufi way is what works for our psyche. In fact you will be amazed to know that here in Canada I have learned a lot about Sufism from Turks and Moroccans

The article blind folded Delhi gives actual image of central govt but we all Kashmiris have to accept this. I request your good self to write some editorials and encourage people of Kashmir to unite once for all to achieve right to self determination. This is right time and not make this agitation just like previous one. Hope that sir u will act upon my request.

Enjoyed reading your in depth notes on History. You should compile all your writings and give it the shape of a book.

I finally was fortunate to visit the website & enjoyed lovely pictures & very involved discussions & comments from Kashmiris & others from around the World.

CONGRATULATIONS for an extraordinary scholarly work. I would have never imagined that your participation in the newly formed J&K Mountaineering Club's quickly arranged hiking trip to the famous chain of beautiful high altitude lakes in 1969 and our Mountaineering course in Darjeeling in 1971 would get you hooked to the depths of the beauty of our Motherland and make you to shine in the newly found carrier path of Tourism Governance. I certainly was aware of your intelligence, charming personality, and deep love of our Motherland & concern of its multiple problems. I am indeed proud of your pen ship & excellent use of time following your retirement.

Your topic Hemis & Jesus is worth lot of appreciation, with a great feature of references you mentioned with every detail. What I want to share with you that I was once travelling from Srinagar to home & I met an engineer who told me that he worked in Uri hydro electric project & Govt of J&K told them to do survey for Neelum(commonly called kishan ganga) hydro-electric project. A foreign engineer asked the person whom I met about some place in Bandipora (whose name I forgot) & then they went there, saw an old temple there. He told me that the trees around that temple don't resemble any tree here. He told me that those trees resemble the trees of Baitul laham. I am very curious to know about it.

It has always been an uphill task in Kashmir for reality to come out. Awareness may help in this regard but like other incidents in history I am personally not positive this time too.

Zanskar, the last place on Earth - I am witness to how huge wooden columns of wood were being transported by Buddhist monks across Umasi la unmindful whether they will reach Padum or not from Matchel/Sumcham of Padder area under harsh weather conditions steep ascent, braving the huge glacier. This reminds me the religious zealot who once said while working at Srinagar Jamia masjid….Deenukh thum chum seenus peth kouthha morus khodayo (since I carry the load for God he shall be responsible).

Entire state is full of such stories where ordinary application of mind fails while guarding SELF.

Nubra, the Silk Route - Recapitulating the electricity supply to Leh/Kargil, it was Nucleolus organization Ladakh a Subsidiary of J&K Minerals Ltd providing electricity during 1966 to 69 from its diesel sets. Sulphur springs of Ladakh as well as valley at Wuyan/Islamabad and at Tatapani, Kalakote shall not only provide relief to patients but shall be a great tourist attraction at par UAE if given to private parties to develop. Tourists now days make a great queue around sulphur springs for therapeutic properties.

I read your article titled "Gilgit-Hunza, Hilton's Shangri-La!-IV" in Kashmir Times of May 5, '2010. It is a fascinating article. I remember reading an article in Readers Digest in 1960 when I was a student of B.Sc. at S.P.College Srinagar. I do not remember name of the author. It was a fascinating article and as you have mentioned the people living there were mentioned as tall, fair, and handsome. The author thought that they were more like Europeans.

Anglo-American Blueprint for Kashmir.The suggestion given to solve our issue with our own people is meaningful & result oriented. After all who is our friend or foe nobody knows. Let us make a home beginning. Yearning for peace is as important as working. There is no life after Democracy; it is a utopia.

In my opinion, Gilgit, Baltistan, Ladakh, and Kashmir together can become world's best destinations for mountain adventure. There is a strong connection between these regions from historical, cultural, geographical, and economical perspective. The key to the prosperity of the people lies in political, social, and economical unification of these regions. Unfortunately, the political events of the past 60 years have created such a gap between the two sides that most of our young generations do not even know where Gilgit and Baltistan is. I hope and pray that the Skardu - Kargil sector be opened for tourism. That will not only bring prosperity to the people but will also help in bringing the four regions together.

I have just gone through your article ' Forget Azadi, revoke AFSPA!' in Kashmir Times.
I also agree that immediate steps should be taken to give relief to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

I have read your articles about the Zanskar and Suru valley of Kargil.You have penned your journeys mostly adventurous, in an interesting manner which would generate interests in the people. As you have travelled extensively to these places you may be knowing the oblivious attitude of the government towards the development of Tourism infrastructure in Zanskar. Zanskar has the potential of becoming another contemporary Leh, if the government takes keen interest in doing so. I have tried to pen down these vows many a times. Sir, I request you to kindly write about these issues through your intellectual bend of mind.

I think I am falling in love with your articles. I just read the
article on Rangdum and Suru valley and I was absolutely glued to my
screen for few minutes. Thank you so much for the articles.
I wish to see many more articles from you and again anxiously waiting
for the Gilgit article. It may be my unfulfilled dream to venture
across Gilgit Skardu. I wish to see K2 base camp but in the current
political situation does not seem possible.

Suru Valley-I
I am regular reader of your articles. These articles contain the truth of riches we have in our Vale. I downloaded the book you have mentioned in this article ie "Peaks & Glaciers of Nun Kun". The attachment could not be mailed because of its big size (18MB). Please find the link for download. It is free.
http://www.archive.org/details/PeaksAndGlaciersOfNunKun

New Machines for Dal Lake.
Thanks for the article. I believe the core of the problem lies in the short bursts of initiatives driven by the free funds provided by external sources like government in New Delhi, Asian Development Bank, etc. With corruption being the norm, any such initiative will never produce a sustainable self healing process for Dal Lake or any other water body in Kashmir. We will continue seeing the half hearted efforts.

An alternative approach should be to let Dal Lake create funds for itself. A non-profit organization be created by law to manage every aspect of Dal Lake. Any one trying to pollute the lake be made to pay heavy tax towards preservation of the lake. Site seeing around Dal Lake be ticketed. Traffic around the lake be minimized and ticketed. Team of foreigners and local experts be made to manage the non-profit organization. This will promote creativity for healing the lake and penalize those polluting the lake.

Dear Mr. Ashraf, till few days back I was enjoying your travelogues
which started with your reminiscences of your child hood visits to
Jammu and then your travels to nook and corners of our state as
Tourism Director. But it seems after retirement we have one more
addition in the ranks of Kashmir experts.

David verses Goliath story by M.Ashraf makes an interesting historical backdrop on stone pelting.How a small stone or slingshot becomes fatal has to be understood under scientific reason.Stones in Kashmir which are used as stoneballast are essentially drawn from regions of Karast topography & mainly consist of LIMESTONE which has FeO(iron) the mineral component of the rock.Decomposition of the rock leaches oxidised iron; & when in contact with blood, contaminates it causing fatal death.CaO the other content accelarates the action.Wound in most cases causes death or perenial disability

Excellent- I look forward for this book- I have gone up to Pratapgarh- I visited Nobra once and thought of writing my experiences but they would not be so exhaustive- It did snow on that day at Khurdungla- it was October 1982, I do not know if you were also on that visit? Peter of Stern Magazine accompanied us.

Dear Ashraf it was nice to read something like this from you after a long time. Very interesting, I hope you can make it a series of writings about different beautiful places in different parts of the state?

An educative write-up. I hope the authorities that be look into it and act on your advice. It reminds me of seventies when we used to spend Christmas and new-year at Gulmarg and the snow would be twice our height.

Sorry to hear about the Avalanche in Gulmarg. As explained in your article, the need of the time is to scientifically predict and act in anticipation for all such eventualities.

Very nice and exciting...I was following the whole series of articles interestingly.

I with my some other friends form an adventurous group of bike riders and each year we drive to scale some mountains and beautiful location in Himalayas. This time in June we are planning for Chandigarh-Manali-Leh-Khardungla-Pangontso Lake-Leh-Kargil-Srinagar-Jammu-Chandigarh.

Your write up of Lal Chowk freed is really touching and full of optimism. Let us hope that it will be freed in real terms from the bloodshed.

May Allah give Kashmir a peaceful and bestow it with the basic right for which many thousands of sacrifices have been offered. Aameen.

Apropos the captioned article recapitulating my posting days at Pugga Borax project; JK Minerals drivers used to collect as much as borax & other salts contaminated water & used to give the same to Asthma patients in Jammu as well as at Srinagar with tremendous recovery & providing relief in inhaling air.

The moonlight night walk around pugga valley in front of Tsokar was reminiscent of a Moonwalk.

Wonder if anybody now days can take research on the efficacy of boron salt water for treatment of Asthma.

Have been reading your article on Ladakh which is awesome. Shah-i-Hamdan travelled from Gultari (Pak side of Baltistan-and there is still a mosque existing there) to Siachin, DBO, Karakorum pass to Yarkand to spread Islam. Could you write something about this epic journey, the route he might have taken during this great journey?

I read your article of dated 27/Jan/10 which was excellent and superb. This reflects you as an intelligent and superb person with all your achievement of your life as I also heard about these lakes and want to visit as soon as possible when life gives me chance. If you don't mind I just want to enhance your knowledge by just giving some clues about some lakes which are untouched and unexplored by human beings. These are situated at upper region of Poonch (3 to 4 beautiful lakes). I am very sorry I do not remember the name of those lakes but I read about them in a article of book named MIRROR & REFLECTION composed by Kamal Mahendru

Pangong and Tsomoriri Lakes. Very interesting article. I haven't seen a lot of Ladakh - but this makes things quite clear.

A regular dependable flight to and fro from Kashmir to Dubai would have been really lovely and helpful, for people returning to Kashmir from the Far-West as well - especially as a stop-over respite in Dubai. Dubai centred international carriers might be interested if provided the necessary support by the Local authorities.

Amazing, breathtaking photos. The 1st photo on the present article is also fabolous.All the best.

Your account of Zanskar took me to Zanskar - at least in imagination!! I always wanted to see the wonderful land of Zanskar but could not go beyond Sanku. I think the same road leads to Padum'

I have gone through latest write up, ''ZANSKAR-2''. It is beyond all doubts very informative and well written.

“Shopian Flash Flood”. Great Article, I think you should shed more light on these conspiracies happening in our motherland.

An article of substance on Trout Rearing. May I add Achabal Farm would rear Trouts weighing in Kgs.We lost it to Militancy?

“Rearing Trout”.Nice Article as usual; A good proposition and that too for FREE!

There is a grave error in an otherwise interesting article. In describing the 2 types of Taliban you seem to have conflated the first with the general Afghan populace. This is false. The Taliban is a movement that grew out of ISI and Saudi funding to control post-Soviet Afghanistan. They were not the brave warriors you claim pushed out the Soviets (only a handful fought in the anti-Soviet war). It was a coordinated effort by different tribes like Ahmed Shah Masood’s Tajiks in the northeast Panjshir Valley to the Pakhtun groups led by Gulbuddin Hekmatyar in the south and the Uzbeks in the NW led by General Dostum. All these ethnic groups would be appalled at being labelled Taliban as they fought the Taliban during the civil war that ensued after the Soviets were defeated.

And the Taliban were certainly not around in the mid-19th century. The British were afraid of an Afghan-Russian alliance and so sent in forces to influence the then king Dost Mohammad. When they failed they tried to install his brother, Shah Shuja on the throne. The Afghans, basically Barakzai Pakhtuns, rose and killed the small British force in Kabul and the retreating civilians fell to sniper fire while crossing the Hindu Kush back into India— not such a brave or commendable act by the Afghans as you can see!

Since the website is your own, perhaps you would like to make these changes for greater historical accuracy.

Response to “The Islands of Kashmir”
Very much appreciate the article. Perhaps our nation has fallen to the rock bottom socially, politically and economically. Need of the hour is for intellectuals to form a collective voice, call for awakening and lead to glory.

Response to “The Islands of Kashmir”
The article speaks for itself. It seems every trouble in the valley is interrelated! which undoubtedly it is. Hope we all get some realisation and amend our ways. We need good people like you for mass awareness. I hope people read and propagate your good thoughts and suggestions.
Every little counts.
I have earmarked this article somewhere in my mental pigeon hole for a later review. The answers might lie in the philosophies of Civic Sense and Moral Science, the elementary lessons of Rights and Duties - Basically Haquq ul Ibad .

Response to, “Kashmir, the west’s blind spot”
A clear journey tracing the total political scenario in a chronological order from Kashmir’s ancient past to its current scenario very comprehensively but with brevity enough to be presentable , readable and understandable in a single note of annotation is a feat in itself and quite uncommon in journalism.
Undoubtedly not in every man's capacity to write with such a historical vision and global perspective especially with reference to changing western agendas and amblyopias.

Response to, “The Dumb Dialogue and the Blind Trade”
Surely, when intentions are really clean and clear it should and really would not need more than few people of average eloquence and calibre from both sides to sort a permanent peaceful strategy...as your good self have rightly suggested even sign languages work where the Listeners are receptive.
As regards the Blind dates (read blind trade) across LOC, it is SAD to learn that Indian and Pakistani sides are not behaving responsibly and maturely to generate mutual trust and progress.
Thanks for highlighting issues which would otherwise remain unrecognised and unknown.

When Elephants fight, it is the Grass which suffers.Nothing explains the triangular conflict better between India and Pakistan with Kashmir as its Unfortunate Apex. Your similitude of "replacing the suseptible soft grass with bamboo shoots" is very well coined. A Good article once again from your goodself for OUR Two Nations to take some heed from. Best Wishes.

Many thanks for reply and article on S. M. Abdullah which is nearly true representation of his political life. The tragedy was lack of opposition leader and party.

Icon is an object of uncritical devotion; IDOL or a pictorial representation; IMAGE, neither applies to man in Islamic tradition. Was it the right word to debate on?

Thanks for mentioning names of Kalhana, Suyya (my hero) from ancient time and many from Rasool Mir & Habba Khatoon in your article.

In a democratic set up like India politicians make icons like JL Nehru. Now it is Indira Ghandi, Rajiv of the same dynasty. The daily problems and their causes and remedy is not in question and laws are not amended on a regular bases or loop holes seldom closed or first discussed in public. Corruption is way of life or part of culture. Problems remain the same for decades, public have no confidence to tackle by pragmatic fashion. Here in England public opinion is tested on different problems on weekly bases making politicians answerable to the public. Nobody takes responsibility.

It looks there is blame game played which is the easiest way the politicians, bureaucrats and public play. How can a country prosper until corruption is tackled head on and the government becomes powerful to spend money on public services like health, energy law & order environment, education, transport and roads and housing etc. Rule of law should take precedence.

Your analysis today on the changing political stance of Pakistan was very beautiful and energetic. But why don’t you publish your thoughts in the national dailies also so that more people will read it and they will come to know about it. Because most of the people are not aware about the real things about Kashmir. Perhaps this may help in your.......

In response to the article “Pakistan, a dream gone sour” the author has used the tone of an adversary than a well wisher in analyzing Pakistan’s political and economical failures in the years, which New Delhi and Pakistan haters love to hear. Although, I am a Kashmir but I feel obliged to defend Pakistan as fellow Muslim and a loyal friend.

The basic set back to Pakistan was a historical Indian Russian alliance which no body is talking about. During Russian Afghan war, Pakistanis didn’t want Russian confrontation but they had no choice but to protect their territorial sovereignty from a crazy communist Supper Power. Pakistan also wanted to help a neighboring Muslim brother country Afghanistan, so getting into the war with Russia was not any religious war adventure which Pakistanis loved to get into, most Pakistan haters say so but that is not true, if any one has to be blamed for that should be Russia as an aggressor and India as a silent neighbor and an ally of invader I also like to mention that India did not condemn the Russian invasion on a sovereign neighbor Afghanistan, the same India who is now pretending to be a well wisher of Afghanistan. What a moral hypocrisy! The matter of the truth is India wanted Russians invade Pakistan for their own interests.

Pakistan as a nation has sacrificed a lot physically and economically to the concerns of Muslims and Islam in particular by providing political support to Kashmiri freedom movement which we should not forget so soon however, some Kashmiri may call their support as across border terrorism but that is their opinion. I don’t know why Mr. Jamwal in his response to the article sets only Pakistan responsible to incite hatred across the borders and not India; this shows his personal bias against Pakistan. I think Pakistani people are very resilient to overcome these tough times. They are survivors and dreamers like Kashmiris and I am sure they will come along these hard times and fulfill the dream Of Alama Iqbal the poet of East and silence all her critics. Insha’Allah.

This refers to your article "Pheran Diplomacy - I like the ending of your article, as how we Kashmiris and our leadership can save the Dal Lake. I personally don’t like the idea involving any international organization to clean our mess, as we all know they don’t give free lunches they serve their own interests first, and in that case we should not do anything that we may regret in the future. Dal Lake is our problem we have created this mess so we have a moral and ethical responsibility to clean it. Dal Lake is our national heritage and the beauty mark of Kashmir valley and if we are not serious to take care of it then no body will be. We all are responsible as individuals, business houses, families, leaders, intellectuals and politicians but mostly, as responsible citizens. On one hand we have sacrificed our blood in the fight of our political rights and on the other hand we have killed the very soul and purpose we were fighting for, we have abused our national treasures like forests, lakes and rivers in personal greed and this is a high time we confess our sins and make a Kuffara. Allah helps those who help themselves not those who depend on International Organizations.

I read your articles in Greater Kashmir when ever I stay in Kashmir. I notice many of the writers show their personal bias towards historical facts and you are one, to my surprise. In this piece you have not even mentioned the name of Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah who has been one of the best icons in Kashmir history. He was the first Kashmiri who felt insulted when Kashmiri labour were addressed as "Hatto" by Punjabi' in Lahore. He was the first Kashmir Muslim who resigned from the post of a teacher. It was a big decision at that time. He fought against Maharajah Harri Singh for discrimination ageist Muslims of Kashmir. He made first Political Party in Kashmir. He started the movement against Dogra Rule. He was the first Kashmir ruler/Prime Minster of Kashmir. Above all he passed the law "Land to Tillers" S. M. Abdullah is probably the first and the only man in the history of the world to do so. Cashmere's miss Sheikh Abdullah for centuries to come. I say. In case you have some personal grievance against him I can forgive you.

We have always been your fan especially for your exclamatory remarks that heat up our mind and emotions viz a viz Kashmir. Today's article, “The Global Hot Spot” is indeed a historical write up, we student community always want to come through. Salute to your prolific imagination and will to transforming your experiences.

Abid Zargar, USA

I was very saddened to see the state of Dal Lake on my recent visit. So much so that I did not feel the desire to see the Dal Lake once again before I left for USA. I believe it is not just the Dal Lake or few other lakes that need immediate attention. The whole Kashmir region is facing an environmental disaster and will need a comprehensive approach. Rules and regulations for managing glaciers, forests, streams, rivers, lakes, orchards, urbanization, etc need to be included in the framework for the revival and sustainment of healthy environment. I believe the government needs to take a tough stand. People are to be blamed but we cannot expect much from people when government has been extremely careless. Even in USA, when Bush administration left financial system unregulated and unmonitored, people of this advanced nation could not stop the financial mess that was created. The fact is that a good section of the population in USA participated in creating the crisis even though there were many voices screaming about the wrong doings. I hope and pray the young CM recognizes the need for immediate action to save the environment in Kashmir as a whole.

Regarding your article, “Pakistan, a dream gone sour”, you must have carried your own views as person, in principal there is no harm in writing and sharing. I do agree with you to some extent and at the same time I reserve the right to comment on this very sensitive and shaky issue. I regret to say that Pakistani leadership had already missed the bus of reconciliation and mutual understanding by injecting enough venom of hatred in people across the border. It’s true that border divides the nation, not people, but the ground realities never changed. The Germans united, Yemenis reconciled, and Vietnam unity liberated, days are not far when you will see the divided Korean peninsula as one nation. As for India, Pakistan and Bangladesh is concerned they probably will go with present scenario till the end of this mankind! I may be wrong but I have strong doubts for Pakistanis’ sincerity and commitment to the cause as they have already shown their hidden mental mind set by instigating five wars against India and eventually and at the end lost miserably. It can be possible only and only, if we sew the seeds of reasonable human understanding for generation next of both nations and after 50 years of successful planting, we can only dream of what you say today. My best wishes and prayers are always there to see that wonderful day, you dream about.

I am daily reading the website of Greater Kashmir to understand the reasons behind alienation of Kashmiris with the mainstream. Also I would like to know the sufferings of these poor Kashmiris who are forced to live in midst of million troops and to learn the untold version in general Indian media.

Your article was very interesting to me because I keep a tab on Pakistan news as well. Your views on current status of Pakistan could be agreed by any right-thing people. Kudos... However, your repetitive statements about "Muslims, their would-have-been-shares in power" are tiresome to read and to comprehend. I feel same tiresome and anguish when Hindu right wing talks about 'Hindu-rashtra, rights of Hindus, blah blah... I have entirely different views on your article which are as follows:

For a south Indian, the events happening in Pakistan pose very curious questions.

1. Your statement "Muslims are killing Muslims" is very disturbing. If you have seen a beautiful Hindi movie firaaq, Nashrudin shah corrects his aide “insaan insaan ko maar raha hain", when his aid boils over killing of Muslims at the hands of Hindus.

2. The main reason for this turmoil in Pakistan is that mixing religion with Politics. India will face same situation if BJP and Sang parivar are given food.

3. Kashmiris should note that cry slogans about Islam may now gather crowds, but such addition of toxic to the politic nature of Kashmir struggle would end up in breaking the social fabric.

I read your opinion published in Early Times “BIASED INDIAN MEDIA”........ Though I appreciate you for choosing a democratic way to put forward your views, you deserve many congratulations for this but I do not agree with you that in any manner Indian media is biased or apathetic towards the cause of Jammu and Kashmir..... Therefore soon I will be sending you the full response in the same democratic and civilized manner.
Hope you appreciate it!

Your comments that Indian media is biased are totally one sided. Please look at Kashmir media, it is totally biased. If a dog or fly is killed by Indian army, it gives front page coverage to such type of news. On the other hand if 50 people are killed by Taliban or Pakistan army, Kashmir media tries to hide it some where, as if nothing has happened. It has failed to give coverage to the attack on minority Sikhs at rangreth area, near old airport by a mob of Islamic fundamentalists on 1st of June 2009. Similarly it failed to give coverage to atrocities committed by Islamic Taliban in Pakistan on minority Hindus and Sikhs. It is the Indian democracy which allows even fundamentalist papers like Greater Kashmir to continue its workplace. First mend your home and then try to put blame on others.

I just read your article "The Bully America!" on GK online. Awesome job!!!! We need more literature like that to change people's minds about the west. Keep it up.

I just read your article about Sylvain Saudan, and skiing Nun peak in Kashmir. What a fascinating (and well written) piece! Thank you so much for writing about this exotic sport. Kashmir is one of those "Paradise Lost" destinations that seems so mysterious and wonderful to an American like myself. I started skiing 47 years ago, and still love to go fast, ski glades, play in the super pipe, ski the bumps, and to do a little Nastar racing as well. I have been lucky enough to enjoy all kinds of terrain and weather, mostly in New England, and a little in Colorado. I would love to experience the scenery, food, and culture of Kashmir. I wish you the very best in all you do, sir. Again, thank you for a wonderful article.

"THE BULLY AMERICA" was a nice article exposing the real face of USA. Indeed our own Kashmir problem is also the proxy scheme of so called free world to reduce Muslims to naught. We feel sorry state when our MULLAS and company leaders beg before them recognizing their role destabilising the whole Muslim UMMAH.

I say salaam to your wit and wisdom for keeping us updated to vital issues. I am your fan of your "Kashmir FIRST" since I started paper reading. May you live long to guide us for we are always left with miseries at the end by all footless leaders.

I refer to your article on Dal Lake. The problem lies in our (everyone) absolute lack of environmental awareness. In west the education starts right from schools on environment awareness. I am sure there was a study done on Dal Lake sometime ago. To implement it in true sense seems difficult if not impossible in not so honest prevailing atmosphere in state. It needs a collective effort from people and government. More funds for Dal mean more "mal" in pockets of concerned officials. It is a simple math. I doubt if we have environmental experts there even? It wouldn't matter!!

A few years ago I visited Wular Lake and was shocked to see a large portion of lake turned into ground, perhaps due to constant silting. Can't see reflection of Harmukh anymore. It is another lake in its last journey.

I appreciate your efforts in highlighting the environmental issues. I am glad that I have some photos of these lakes preserved to show my children, sometime in my old age, that once there was a lake.

I have been reading your articles through GK. I am usually delighted to read articles of social and economic interest which may benefit we, Kashmiris at one time. Your articles on tourism, environment, and other social issues deserve special appreciation. Your recent article about the Dal Lake and its Last Rites should evoke some positive response from policy makers of the state, who are in deep slumber.

In the same article, you have touched the role of Kashmiri Diaspora in the assisting the administration through professional services. But my question is whether, people in high places do really desire for it and if provided has any bearing on the outcome. I recently had an opportunity to attend a UNESCO meeting on Education for Sustainable Development at Bonn, Germany. In addition, while spending almost two weeks there at one of the leading sustainable university named Leuphana University I am surprised as to why Government of Jammu & Kashmir is sitting pretty when so much of professional advice in the area of restoration of water bodies is available with these countries. I had personal interaction with several experts in the field who were more than willing to provide the same on an institutional platform. The tragedy with J&K is that we are riddled with inefficient bureaucracy where professionals have no roll. I am not an expert in the field but being a Visiting Professor to several German and Japanese universities, I have had several opportunities to talk to experts in the field as the issue is as dear to me as any conscientious Kashmiris. However, as a Vice Chancellor Designate to Transworld Muslim University, it will be my dream to establish a CENTRE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT with professional services available to the Government for all matters relating to sustainable development, Insha’Allah.

This refers to "The great Tulip Failure" published in G.K. dated 10th May 2009 by M.Ashraf.

The Author has really overhauled role of sycophants, in meeting their inner desires of looting state exchequer, by diverting valuable state resources to unwanted and non target areas. This is a hard fact that nature has endowed us with best of its ecological conditions for production of cut flowers of commercial value, which would really benefit our farming community if advised for diversified practises akin to hi-tech agriculture. But unfortunately administrative hierarchy at the apex level, till date, failed to give practical shape to various components of Horticulture Mission Technology programme, launched by government of India four years back, in which area specific commercial floriculture, vegetable and fruit production were thrust areas of development and cores of rupees have been allocated and allotted to Government of Jammu and Kashmir, out of which only a meagre amount has been shown utilised by Jammu and Kashmir Govt., when the fact is that most of the states of Indian union have utilised the targeted amount and area expansion programmes under Horticulture Mission Technology Programmes. They have made great strides in production/adoption of commercial floriculture, vegetable, and fruits. The live example of which are our north east Indian states, were big commercial floriculture companies within and abroad India are incurring more and more resources, in terms of quality planting material etc.
But unfortunately lack of administrative and political will have marred our development of floriculture, vegetable, and fruits under the aforesaid programme. The Govt. of Jammu and Kashmir has not taken, till date any initiative to reorganise and revitalise the narrow base of floriculture department, which is need of the hour, to reach a common farmer with innovative programmes under Horticulture Mission Technology Programme.

Thanks for this useful contribution (Dal, the Last Rites!). One fourth of blame can't be levelled against Government of India, which is always our Prima Facie Suspect. It is we Kashmiris who are to be blamed for this utterly miserable condition of our State. So four out of four blame on us. Lot has been written about this diseased lake. It is time for some action.

The solution is simple. Take houseboats off Dal as the judgement passed by the State High Court. I bet Kashmiris will find one or the other way to over turn it. After all we are Masters at that. Remove illegal construction and floating gardens. However, we are intoxicated by this odd behaviour of grabbing whatever we can. Otherwise how could we convert agricultural land into residential complexes? How could we convert this beautiful Dal into a stinking pool? Greed has taken over all our sensibilities. Let us be ready with obituary for Dal, Wular, Nigeen and guess what not............!

Salam. Sir you have blamed local people for ruining Dal in your article, “Last Rites for Dal”. It is true. But we can blame to those people who are conscious. But people of Kashmir are in fast sleep. They are sleeping like a bear. I don't understand mind of Kashmiri people. Is there any one having ever minded that we seem to be outlaw people? We can break traffic rules, we can make water impure. We can put rubbish of house holds on the road. But can't do anything other wise.

Your LAST-RITES article is a very logical and thoughtful statement of facts-a grim and very sad reminder for all the cruel depredations wreaked by all of us upon that priceless gift of heaven. We have been so frenetic in our selfish pursuits that we lost every touch with Allah’s WORLD around us, even became stone deaf to Allah’s herald shouting “for whom the bells toll, these toll for thee, so beware"-Az khaawab-gharaan khaiz'. Now I cannot say what fates await us for all times for “those who search for solutions at eleventh hour, usually die at 10.30"

Your last para suggestion appears to me commendable if only it is scrupulously adhered to and implemented.

I am very much impressed to read a very well-written article on Caste Factor in India, “The Indian Caste War” by you. I recall my college days in S.P.COLLEGE at Srinagar back in forties. It was a memorable day I still remember. A debate was going on in the central hall where everyone was speaking out freely on the future shape of things to come in the near future on the attainment of freedom from British Government. It was my turn to speak and speak I did aloud reciting a wonderful poem of a famous poet which in fact was Kanahiya Lal Kapoor’s grim indictment of what that so-called sage of ancient times "Manoo Maharaj" did by introducing the most reprehensible caste divide of Indian society with the so-called divine sanction of Hindu religion. I remember only first couplet of that poem. I quote, "Manoo Maharaj tairey rooh-ai muazm ko salam, /Shobadah-baaz tarai saharay manzam ko salam." etc etc. It is a long hitting poem. I projected a very dark future for the deprived class due to caste divide. And the fact is that under religious sanction and guise he divided the Aryan society into water-tight segregated compartments which for centuries had mercilessly exploited the deprived class. I say mercilessly. I remember my loud denunciation of the caste divide, which to my bad luck incited my compatriots, being privileged Brahmin-class, jumped defending the same as divine- sanctioned truths and sacred for all times. Thereafter a big brouhaha - free- for- all erupted with me as to the meanings and the nature of truth and falsehood. I remember telling them my views of the nature of what is truth, where does truth end and falsehood begin. Where does a semi-truth morph into a little white lie which little white-lie becomes a damned lie. Does such morphed truth matters at all when the line dividing so-called truth and falsehood stands blurred. And then why should we concern ourselves with the nature of these truths and lies, I stressed, this was very important to understand, for a lie told and retold often enough is perceived as divinely sanctioned truth, and such unchallenged lie causes miseries for ever and even changes the course of human destinies, as is the case of caste factor which in fact is a skein of lies spun into a golden fabric of truth in Indian society. Now we cannot destroy this golden fabric of caste- factor- truths, we can only endure it because these our worst of lies we tell ourselves as divine truths.

I remember I got support from my mentors, Mufti Jalal-ud-Din, B.k.Madan our professors. "ghur tu khaahee taazzaa kardan daagh-haay seen ra, /Ghahay ghahay baaz khaan ein kiss-ay paareena ra" You see the aftermath results operative even after centuries in "Mera Desh Mahan”.

Please excuse my living my past as I lived depicting my Lal-chowk coming of age in crumbling knees. Now no amount of wishful thinking can change our society.

Hope you are doing well. Your Article on Sunday special of GK today is very impressive and whatever you said is need of hour. I totally agree with you that history is very important, not only to know what all is Kashmiri in origin, but also introspection to know our faults.
Abstract idea about Azadi will not live long, we need to come up with concrete thoughts what it means, why it is needed and what are ill deeds of occupation, what is occupation, how Kashmir is occupied....the leaders need to be articulate about it and also the aspirants of Azadi...Mere Azadi bari-ye-Islam will not be beneficial...we need leaders for carrying out this struggle of self-determination, rather than Imam's for mosques. which Masha-Allah we have lots...I mean to say we most often judge a leader by his religious credentials...Nimaz Padta hai ki nahi...Dadi hai ke nahi..etc....I am not its not important but it cannot be the only thing because we have seen the people who used to recite Sura- Yasin at Hazratbal, could not prove the real leaders for Azadi and made a sell-out in 1975.

Your article “United Jammu & Kashmir” reflected great depth and breadth. This could only come from a person with outstanding scholarship and experience.

I have been reading your articles since long. Some times I do miss to
read. I shall be highly obliged if you send me your articles through
mail. I may add here that the contribution you are making for the
Kashmir is among the few which are highly appreciable. May Allah
Almighty keep you in fine health as your contribution is badly needed.

Dear Sir, I am a student of Kashmir university dept. of chemistry, is a regular reader of GK NEWSPAPER .Today I find your article entitled as ''Democracy Survives in Pakistan”. Sir your every article is genuine and touching current world problems. Dear Sir, I request your esteemed being that is there any source where all your articles are compiled. If such a felicity is there I will be ever indebted to you if your kindness inform me with the said issue. I hope you will inform me back.

ASHRAF SAHIB, MANY OF YOUR ARTICLES ARE SOMETIMES TOUCHING THE HEART. REALLY THE 2ND ONE REMINDS ME ABOUT MY OWN SCHOOL DAYS. REALLY I MUST SAY, IF EVER SOMEBODY WILL ASK ME, DID U EVER ENJOY YOUR LIFE? SURELY I WILL SAY YES, I HAD SEEN THE BEST AND POSITIVE ASPECT OF LIFE IN MY SCHOOL DAYS AND REALLY BEFORE 1990. SIR, IT WAS 1990 WHEN ALL MY DREAMS AND WISHES GOT SHATTERED WHEN I WAS IN CLASS 7TH AND MUNSHIJI, PANDITJI WHO USED TO TEACH US HISTORY. IT WAS FIRST TIME AFTER CLASS 6TH WE GOT 8 PAGES ANSWER TO A QUESTION DESCRIBED AND ILLUSTRATED TO US IN HIS FULL PERIOD... IF SOMEBODY WILL ASK ME STILL ABOUT THAT QUESTION ...I WILL TAKE 100/100. AFTER THAT DAY..... REALLY IT WAS HAVOC............DISASTER FOR US.
AFTER FEW DAYS MUNSHI JI AND OTHER TEACHERS (PANDITS) LEFT FROM RAINAWARI... (D.A.V H/S SCHOOL), LEAVING US DESPERATE... OUR SCHOOL WAS PUT ON FIRE...LEAVING A SHED AND A GROUND OF 9 KANALS... WHICH WAS THEN USED FOR SELLING TIMBER, CHARCOAL, CEMENT, AND SAND. ETC AND PLAYING CRICKET, SELLING DRUGS......UFFF.

Sir, I had done graduation, but I know, I did it to get my self called professional, not to be a professional.
All the taste of education I feel lost............
What are your views about leaving of pandits from valley?
Do you feel any impact on education stream? Well for me I feel yes… a tremendous impact on our education...

Ashraf ji
Thanks for your email. I'm afraid that romanticising Musharraf is
somewhat dangerous because of the reasons I mentioned in my earlier
email. Pakistan is a complex place and needs to first save itself before it
can save anyone else. Re Iqbal and Jinnah's dreams -- the bottom line
is that politics based on religion are ultimately destructive.
regards, Beena

Respectfully I would disagree with your contention that Musharraf was
the best hope for Pk-India peace (Zardari has gone even further in
terms of things he has said).

You say that Musharraf "had successfully kept in check the extremist
forces which are now having a ball in different parts of the
sub-continent. The Lal Masjid episode, the Balauch uprising, the FATA
campaign against foreign elements clearly showed that the General had
the guts to take extremists head on."

He made the right noises about India and Pakistan but don't forget he
was the architect of the Kargil infiltration. It was during his time
that the extremist forces gained in strength (partly due to
circumstances arising from 9/11). Re: the Lal Masjid episode - he used
disproportionate and belated force after years of allowing the Lal
Masjid clerics to arm and strengthen themselves under the nose of the
army and the ISI, all the while using encroached land to carry on
their activities (they rose up after the local government in an
anti-encroachment drive sent them a notice about the illegal land
usurpation, done during the Zia years). The Baluch uprising had
nothing to do with 'extremism', while the Pk army achieved nothing in
the FATA campaign.

Finally, he was not a legitimately elected leader and had no right to
make any promises or deals.

Salam from a younger brother.
On seeing BUNGUS valley photograph, you have taken me back to the year 1973 when as a student of TDC; I visited this place through ZACHALDORE. While trekking upward I heard my examination result from the transistor of a senior doctor of SMHS hospital.Lakut & bod Bungus both are beautiful. My soul is still wandering in those areas. I too have extensively trekked all parts of my Kashmir including on motorcycle to Khardungla.Nmaskar.

It was, as usual, a pleasure to read your article. Thanks for sending it on to me.

To me it seems that it is your (inner) fond hope also, that, Musharraf comes back like a Knight on a white charger and saves his country from SELF-DESTRUCTION, a quality the Pakistani cricket team is often accused of. It seems to be their national pastime as they indulge in it almost with pleasure. I also wish Pakistan well, because as you have rightly pointed out, whatever people might say the destinies of India and Pakistan are linked together not only because of History but more so due to Geography - something from which no nation can extricate itself .

I have only one thing against Musharraf. He destroyed the independence of the Judiciary, or whatever (facade) was left of it. For that crime alone he deserves the Capital punishment. Strong thoughts. Yes. But, even this punishment is less for the enormity of the crime committed and its loooong after effects.

So let us wait and see what the sub-continent has in store, for future. Keep your fingers crossed. Bye for now.

Sir, this article touched my heart too, I still remember, the days when valley was in deep mess by so-called militancy, one was feeling very enjoying and a heavenly atmosphere in Jammu as compared to Kashmir, I used to be as student and still remember the rush of people, the busy markets and was often feeling very sad to cross back to valley. Although, it is somehow due to bad times, the people of Jammu arose against Kashmiris; otherwise I myself feel Jammuites were peace loving and humble nature people.

Good...
Congrates on publishing your articles across the state print media.
I am delighted!!!

This is with reference to your article with caption 'jammu nostalgia' which appeared in kt today. The article is very interesting, based on facts, explaining and enlightening.

I use to read all of ur articles appearing in newspapers from time to time. I remember your speech made in a function organised by friends of ladakh in Jammu University in VC’s chamber. I remember the way of your presentation and hold on all around knowledge. The said article also makes the mind fresh and takes one down the memory lane. The presentation is very interesting, and one feels himself experiencing and enjoying a visit in Jammu or the journey around. congrats.....

I am regular reader of your article getting published in GK. I appreciate your efforts to high light the core issues related to problems in our society and the solutions therewith. Your articles reflects the voice of every honest person who is willing to do good things for Kashmiri society .I am impressed by your article in particular to corrupt practice and its influence on our society which is very much true face of Kashmiri society. Further I share the same idea that government should not create more armed personals with out productivity rather they should create more technical jobs. looking back at my carrier I feel it is must to create opportunities to youths in technical field and train them so that they can have better future and deliver there level best but Irony of situation is all our planners are bureaucrats who do not possess any technical background and so called technocrats in engineering departments have taken the job of clerks for calculating their percentage. Opportunities are there but the question is that how to tap them you will agree that recently Baglair hydro power project was commissioned every body in administration was watching when the project will get completed in order to score their ranks without any heed who and how to run .This was the golden opportunity for the administration to organize training programs for young aspirants .Being the expert in the power field I know very well if you want to train any person then you have to engage them from design stage to commissioning stage now the power plant is in operation stage but very little is left for them to learn in terms of system. This opportunity was at door step but no body availed because of lack of information and knowledge. The main Question is whom to punish and how to change this situation. Finally I salute you for your dedication and hope this

I particularly liked the statement that "One is a long cherished goal involving the sentiments and emotions of the people and the other is the practical reality of day to day living". I believe that everybody has to understand this be it the centre or people watching from above (Read USA ).

I have been an ardent reader of all of your articles, since times I don't actually remember. Today's article, however forced me to think of two things and a bit of commentary I would like to do on both of them separately. They are as under and I would be grateful, if you could give me your scholarly feedback on both of them please.

1) Going to vote was a dragon on the spirit of our freedom movement, (quite obvious);- Just before the voting began, the Indian mouthpiece (the so called main stream parties of India) began beating a drum, with a statement that "elections have got nothing to do with Kashmir resolution, and that hurriyat has its part to do". This statement did lot of damage, as a Kashmiri, who knows nothing about the capricious designs of India ; was lured to booth, with a notion that the party he will elect would solve his roads and hospital problems.

Floating in the same saga, I witnessed many Kashmiri scholars writing in favour of Elections on our own Greater Kashmir !!!!

Not wasting our time in discussing the role of Hurriyat (as they are busy calling names to each other), the point I want to make here is that a common Kashmiri living on the lap of mountains, so far away from Delhi posh offices where his future is been designed by the most nefarious people we know; had to fall in their trap. They not only meticulously designed the E-process but also built up a mammoth team to make it a success.

I hence guess, it's not a "genetic problem" what we have developed by constant oppression. It's been a problem with India itself during its struggle against British. (The 10% factor what you have mentioned fits very rightly here)

2) The leadership as we all know is defunct. As sister Hameeda Nayeem has pointed out that calling the hartals off, after Pahalgam land row was a mistake, I am strongly of the view that the Kashmiri leadership was put on sale at Gulmarg (or if not, then blackmailed for some reasons). We gave an excuse of harvesting time, the exams...what idiocy! We have lost an odd number of 100,000 young buds and we at such a crucial time were worried about Exams! That was more of a problem...and I guess all India (with MK Narayanan taking the lead) should have done, they did it. It will take Hurriyat ages to find a cause again to get people on streets and who knows the contemporary Hurriyat may be the ruling part of Indian occupied Kashmir at that time... (by the way, did hurriyat have the people on streets or was it other way round?)

Writing all this, I am not against the whole lot...there are people like Yaseen Malik and Shabir shah, who pose a real threat to India (perhaps a reason that they are put behind bars during election times and the rest including Mr Geelani are kept in their homes!). The point I want to make here is that its not that we don't have a good shepherd, indeed we do have one, but to work against the might of India we need so many of them. AND MOST IMPORTANTLY all of them in ONE STRONG VOICE. SELFLESS, not craving for power and leadership, but aiming the tunnel of darkness, thinking to rip thro it and mobilising their resources to get us out of this gorge.

The complete shutdowns on 15 august and 26th January will continue, and that signifies our resentment towards India . It signifies that we still want freedom, and we still believe in our leaders...but then they got to do their homework properly. They got to gauge the feelings of a common Kashmiri. They got to arouse people, with emotions, with patriotism, persuade them to leap forward. Look for social welfare, arrange a mega-marriage concert, ask the settled young boys to marry a poor orphan girl (like the one we had in 80's at eidgah), reach out to poor and oppressed. Try the best they can and win people who are ready to be won.

I hope this article reaches out to many Indian and Pakistani peace loving people. This article would definitely make the thoughtful to think about the direction India and Pakistan should take.

Unfortunately, your articles do not show up if we do search for Kashmir in Google News.

Please advise your web programmer to configure your website to facilitate that. It is very important that these articles are read around the world.

In response to "Unpredictable Kashmiri"
You have aptly described what we are but you haven’t told us what we should be. You have glorified our unpredictability but you have failed to identify weakness in our character. Mughlas, Afgans and Dogras have come but have we Kashmiris expelled them or they have fought for Kashmir among themselves. Blaming Pakistan and India for everything is not just; it is we who swindle between Azadi and Anti-Azadi and bring these nations to verge of War. We are most cheat and cunning community in entire world. We have lead our youth to face bullets both during armed insurgency and anti India protects but ultimately our bread, our road, our economics, our own interest and our own self is more important to us than sacrifices. Allaha is the only saviour otherwise we are a dead lot. Personally I am ashamed to be called a Kashmiri. Had we a little bit of conscience we would have never come out to vote. What can our leaders do? At the outset how can they be better than what we individually and collectively are? Besides not only we as ordinary citizens but also our intellectuals mercilessly smack our revolutionary leaders for their human errors. We put them along side with angels and always expect them to stand tall against all odds when on the contrary we not only condone traitors but we participate actively in the acts of infidelity and electioneering. As a human-being it is more appropriate for us to accept slavery and live not at the expense of those whom we get killed in protests. Shame on Us.

In response to “Misplaced Priorities”.
Wonderful. Could efforts be made outside the system of insensitive politicians and apathetic Government agencies? I would like to join any such endeavour on ground to prevent further environmental degradation. .

Unfortunately, state of present day leaders in Kashmir is dismal. You had rightly mentioned in one of your articles...that Kashmiris need a Budshah....Ironically, one of the big shots in Kashmir politics recently announced that Kashmir cannot survive as an independent nation. It is extremely painful to see that on one hand natural resources of Kashmir are being looted at full speed and on the other hand Kashmiris are made to believe that Kashmiris cannot survive without the mercy of non-Kashmiris. Kashmir has all the ingredients of beating our neighbours in economic development provided we have the right leadership. Kashmir can become one of the most prosperous nations. When India with 400 million living under poverty line can become an economic giant, why cannot Kashmir with so many natural resources.

Your site is excellent and your contribution historical. I would like to suggest your good self to incorporate a new tab in your site for guests so that selected articles can be given a placement that will make your site colourful.

It was a pleasure going through the contents of your website and learning so much more about Kashmir and yourself. I was born in Srinagar in 1971 and lived a good part in Pahalgam/Srinagar. I did my Engineering from Thapar and then moved to US for higher studies. Presently I am the CEO of an IT firm. I try to visit Kashmir at least every two years if not more often, even amidst militancy and despite being the minority  really that doesn’t matter – like you said – Kashmir First! - Its my birthplace, my country, my people and I can feel it every time I get back. I want to do something within my reach for its people… the state of the affairs is so sad….I try to gather whatever I can on the internet and my brother even runs the site – www.pahalgam.com. He even had the opportunity to attend the Jawahar Lal Mountaineering Institute in Pahalgam in 1988, I believe (Since that’s area of your interest). Anyway it was great reading about you – it’s good to find good Kashmiris – anywhere.

Overplaying the terror threat, I am in agreement with your argument. I do not believe the terrorist threat in India is as critical as that projected by the Government and the intelligence agencies. The Spanish have suffered more since 9/11 than the Indians, yet they have not become hysterical about the terror threat, and there certainly isn’t witch hunt against Muslims there, nor are they beating their breasts about identity and loyalty. The prospect of being knifed or violently assaulted in India is more likely than being blown up by a terrorist bomb. And, of course the damage to the world caused by our wastefulness, excesses and abuse of the environment is phenomenal. I think the Indian Government ought to get its perspective right; think long-term for global benefit and stop its knee–jerk reaction to Muslim issues. There are bigger and more serious issues in society that need urgent attention.

Hi.My name is adil and I am an MBA student. As usual your articles are as mesmerising as ever. Your articles are without bias. I love your articles especially on tourism because I have got this wanderlust and the gene for it maybe I have acquired from my father. I read your articles imagining myself to be present there and your articles give me utmost happiness and satisfaction. Well it is suffice to say that your articles are absolutely fantastic from beginning to end. Last but not the least it is your lucid style which is very appealing and influencing. Looking forward to read your more articles in near future.

First of all I would like to congratulate & also like to say to carry on this work. I am greatly impressed with the lines that you have written in your article (Is the Paramilitary ill-trained and undisciplined or under specific instructions to brutalise Kashmiri people, someone needs to answer). Brother I am out of state & I do read GK regularly specially Sunday edition & always search for these kinds of articles. Tears come out from my eyes while reading your article. I myself lost a good friend in this agitation. Thanks

Once again a brilliant and an informative article. I see your point clearly and agree, if this is not stopped we will see Pakistan and India in pieces in the near future. Once again our able politicians will be responsible for such devastation from both sides. I suggest you write something on Zardari also, now that he has stepped into the President's domain in Pakistan, he is going rave devastation in Pakistan and agree to India's terms in all possible forms and manners.

"BJP plans Kashmir Secession" is a very interesting article with a different viewpoint on the current turmoil of the Amarnath Yatra. Definitely, India has not stood for its proclaimed democratic or secular values in Kashmir. If only India had not been ruthless in it's handling of crisis in the state for last 20 years we would not have been in such a situation. Kashmiri's feel a strong double-standard meted out to them simply because they are the only "Muslim" majority state, and the security forces are trigger-happy at the slightest proclamation of the universal human right to protest against injustices.

At the same time if the Kashmiri pandits had not been migrated at the hands of the Indian government this situation would not have risen. The Pandits were part and parcel of the Kashmir state and represented the diversity, intellect, and freedom in the society. The Pandits have unfortunately lost their nation and been neglected by the very government that migrated them which has also stemmed this agitation in Jammu.

Kashmiris are "sandwiched" between India and Pakistan as both countries prefer to wage their battle away from their mainland. Kashmiris as such have no issues with the populace of both countries, we would be much better economically if people from both sides were able to travel safely to the state for tourism and enjoy the heavenly beauty.

Lastly, we Kashmiri's need to unite ourselves so that we can state our views and protest like Ghandi himself; peacefully!

IT IS REALLY GREAT TO HAVE INTERACTION OF THOUGHTS WITH U (WITH UR WRITINGS) I HAVE HAD THE SAME (NOT EXACTLY) THOUGHTS N THE AFTER-THOUGHT WHEN ONE OF THE PARTIES; PC GAVE THE SLOGAN OF GREATER KASHMIR **VISION STATEMENT** WELL.... HOWEVER IT IS/CAN BE BEST UNDERSTOOD BY SILENCE OF PAK TODAY. Isn’t it? WE ALWAYS HOPE FOR BEST...

YES, OFFCOURSE I MYSELF FEEL THE SAME. WHAT ACTUALLY WILL BE IN LONG RUN (NO WAY FOR A MUSLIM KASHMIRI) AS WE KNOW IN OUR HISTORY FOR KASHMIRIS EVERY ONE DID ATROCITIES AND RAGE WHETER MUSLIMS OR HINDUS.
A KASHMIRI SHOULD PERHAPS THINK TOWARDS THE POSITIVE WHEREABOUTS FOR HIS GOOD SURVIVAL.

I praise ALLAH and invoke His blessings and Protections upon all of you. I have already read your article in yesterday's issue of Greater Kashmir and have also read your article of hi-jacking of Amira Kadal. Your later article brought profuse tears of remembrances of things past in its wide sweep of nostalgia. I was there on that historical and fateful day-a young boy surprised to see history unfolding when our late leader Janab Sheikh Sahib welcomed in the finest spirits of our culture and traditions the greatest leader of undivided India. It was a demonstration of our pure, honest, and friendly ethos that we showed. We all joined in honest appreciations of the occasions.

When I was struck DUMB to hear the couplet"Mun tu shudam------"I say Dumb,the couplet was humble offering by Maulana Roum to Hazoor Sarvarai Kayanat Rasul-ai-pak.I was drained of even the strength to walk. Thereafter I hastily retreated and have remained in deep prayers to save my brothers and sisters. You see the after effects. Now only ALLAH will save us.

Your second article is so well written, logical and timely that I humbly salute and offer my benedictions for Lord’s blessings and guidance upon you. Your profound observations and disarming arguments are relevance will convince all who believe in fairplay and justice.
"Aiy sahib-ai-nazr zauq-nazr khoob hai laikn

QUITE WELL WRITTEN; THANKS FOR THE LINK; India and Pakistan should now concentrate on the bottom line, reconcile their differences, help together in getting the Maharaja State its rightful status and move forwards. Both are lagging behind in development and innocent people are suffering a lot. However, in the current context, what your good self has written is very appropriate.

After reading article "Lal Chowk hijacked" I feel you can aptly name it "Kashmir hijacked". What good is the land to Kashmiris, when Indians kill its entire people? Killing doesn't have to be physical. By breaking their spirits; no, not breaking but annihilating Kashmiris Indians can achieve 'complete' damage. We need Jinnah and Gandhi rolled into one in order to defeat Indians. Meanwhile keep safe and Allah be with you.

Thanks for mailing the article, which I enjoyed reading it. I fully endorse your assessment & the suggestion is the only alternative left otherwise " TUMARI DASTAN BE NA HOGI DASTANO MAIN". I am circulating the article among my friends of coffee club.

I read your article and it's brilliant. I suppose more of this knowledge should be passed from scholars like you on to the younger generation. It does leave an impression on your mind when you get to know the history of your mother land.

First of all let me appreciate your efforts. Lal Chowk Hijacked, the word used "Hijacked" itself reveals its pain.Infact the whole Kashmir has been Hijacked and Kashmiri people are held hostages.

The people of Kashmir have been fighting for independence from last 78 years. The 1931 protest led to the "Quit Kashmir" campaign against the Maharajah. Kashmiris are being butchered but Kashmiris have not given up. It is a struggle for the basic rights of freedom and democracy we all desire as human beings.

A Kashmiri will continue to harbour this wish of one day hoisting his own national flag in this world famous town centre of Srinagar. He has desired this for last so many centuries and a few more years won't make a difference!

I am very much agreed with your above para saying "A Kashmiri will....few more years won't make a difference "Now it's time for people of India & Pakistan to think lets free Kashmir and end the bloodshed. A large majority of educated Kashmiris, Indians, and Pakistanis would agree with this, else we will just go deeper and deeper into the cycle of bloodshed.Kashmiris are peace loving people and the present peaceful protests spreads the message in the whole world that "We Kashmiris are against global terrorism" However, we cannot bury our heads in the sand and ignore the human rights violations.

The people of Kashmir deserve the right to decide their own destiny, to build their land, to work freely for a living, to practice their religion, to educate their youth, and to live a life without fear, without humiliation, without unlawful incarceration, without daily bloodshed, without daily searches, without discrimination.

I am presently working in Brussels & I was keeping a close eye on present situation in Kashmir and I am thankful to Greater Kashmir staff for keeping all NRK updated through online edition. Indian administration used brutal force against peaceful protestors and even the force didn't spared expected woman, harassment, damaging windows panes, use of abusive language, damaging property, Economic blockade, use of razor type tin sheets. They breached freedom of press .It is shocking! Is this is the real face of Indian administration?

Your efforts are appreciated & it is a good to see your website "First Kashmir". It is simple and compact.

Wonderful article coming straight from heart of a Kashmiri. The couplet perhaps reads as under: “Man tu shudam, tu man shudi; Ta Kas na Goyed, man degeram tu degeri" It can be translated as:"I became you and you became I; so none could say you are separate from me"......... I agree that a Kashmiri cannot be suppressed for ever. Poet/historian Fauq said in 1890s "Kashmir hai ek sher, magar soya hua; Jab jagega hoga sab teh wa bala" The lion has finally awakened, everything is topsy turvy. Go on writing and keep the flame alive.

Thanks for sending this note of information, as it really covers every aspect of realities previaled in Kashmir. Kindly do intimate me in future regarding those valuable informats.

A well written article exposing Indian continued designs of Gulag in valley. I have forwarded it to as many people I know. Keep it up.

Aslamalykum from los angles.I used to read your articles with regard to kashmir sometimes in the past in the greater kashmir and had liked your articles about kashmir. I am surprised that i have not read your article in the said newspaper for quite sometime.Infact i had written a letter of appreciation to you then.The present article remind me of that historic day when i was present in Lal chowk that day as a child accompanying my father.I must admit your articles are just superb and wish you could give your artcles a book form.

I want to recollect your memory, infact we had a brief interaction some months ago when you were on way to my office at Civil Secretariat regarding some passport issue. I've been reading your articles for quite some time. Although i dont have scholarly IQ to understand the delicacy and the great thought of an author but still as a lay-man if i dont acknowledge the idea behind your writing, it would be injustice. Today's article must be an eye-opener to all peace loving and patriotic citizens. I salute you.

Your recent article "Blackmailing Kashmiris...." is very profound summary of problems Kashmiri nation is facing. I think it is extremely important at this stage that we have a platform where people who have Kashmiriyat at the core of heart have a collective voice. Those who are not driven by political agendas need to form a institue for strategic thinking for Kashmir where complex issues can be translated in simple language which our kashmiri brothren can understand. For example, most of the top bureaucracy in kashmir today is non-kashmiri where majority of those is following the agenda of diluting Kashmiriyat and ironically no one seems to be bothered by this.

I just went through your website and I was great to read the articles that are posted on it. But one thing I want to suggest is that the articles should in paragraph so it can be easily read. Truly I was lost many times between lines. So it is better to have paragraphs in articles. Else it is nice work. Thanks for reading my mail.

My name is Imran Ali Wajidi. I'm in Delhi but I keep in touch with the affairs back home through online newspapers like Greater Kashmir. I read your article regarding the transfer of 100 acres forest land to Amarnath board. Your article provided us with a brief insight into the past that our motherland has been through and integrating it with the politics that oppressors have played upon it. I was happy to note that people like you are doing a good job of educating and awakening others on the matters of our homeland and religion through these kinds of articles. I greatly appreciate your work and keep it up!.

Accept my regards. I am really ifluenced & impressed by the quality and well researched Articles on Kashmir. It is really tremendous & good to see your Articles in Greater Kashmir. May Allah shower his blessings upon you & protect you Always. I find your website very informative. I love to read your artricles but this article was nice GENERAL SINHA UNITS HURRIYAT, it is much needed to day.

Once again our humble benedictions to ALLAH PAK to bless,guide and protect you for all times.Ameen.I was moved to tears to read your bold,profound, penetrative and truthful defence of our culture and ethics, social heritage and community life which are already teetering on grey zones of endangered species.The dehumanising rejoinder from one Mr; Bhat was a complete non-issue and worth relegation to dust heap of garbage.It is no surprise that the centuries old nefarious and prejudicial machinations are still feverishly active, waiting for total obliteration of our finest traditions and prestine glorious heritage.

My dear,always be aware that some of our compatriots are not blessed with DNA of relationships which is uniquely designed for healthy and affectionate and co-operative life.Trust In ALLAH.May HE always guard,protect and bless you and your noble parents ameen.

Asmat Ashai
Volunteer Coordinator
MCC Medical Clinic, USA

I applaud you for bringing out the Vision statement of the Institute. I am enraged and thank you for taking on Prof. Bhat in such an intellectual manner. I have been in the United States for the last thirty two years but I am still emotionally drawn to every thing that takes place in Kashmir. Now that the internet has revolutionized the information industry it is easier to keep up with what is going on. Please keep informing us through your writings.

Inayat u.Khan

I always offer benediction for Allah's blessing upon you to be so studiously trying to save for all posterity what remains of the cultural and religious identity of our society in kashmir. Ever since I started reading your thoughtful and well researched articles on kashmir you have always remained in my thoughts and prayers to Lord to bless you and your house ameen.

I am deeply impressed by your well-written, researched and inspirational article. I wish there were many such dedicated young men to save our society. Your last para is a pointer towards a very sinster diabolical well thought out scheme for achieving complete obliteration of our distinct, separate culture and glorious heritage of our past.

Rahil Yousuf
Bangalore

The article (Genesis of corruption) you have written is really awesome. Actually I was planning to write on this topic, as I have just returned from Srinagar a week ago and I still have this bad taste in my mouth.

Fyi, I am a Kashmiri, but am living outside Kashmir from over a decade - first as a student and now as a professional.

Now, adding to your fablous article, I recenty had a contact with state as well as central govt. offices in Srinagar- RTO, External affairs to name a few. Private firms or govt. organizations run by private agencies are not that behind also- Srinagar airport being a prominent one. The word "Chai" (tea) is more likely the mostly used word other than the word "corruption".

Literally, a simple sentence speaks it all "Rules beyond Jawahar Tunnel are different". This is the sentence I came across on number of occasions. Interestingly, I was awarded a slang "Khoshik" (dry) when I refused to give "Chai", followed by the rules beyond Jawahar tunnel.

Ashraf, you are damn right, if people at the top stop this practice the lower staff wont dare. But if we think realisticly, do you think this is possible. The top notch should be exposed otherwise their influential status will always save them. Again, we must not put this onus on politicians. If we do so our conversation wont be more than a good sounding article of a fairytale.

Ashraf, your words are powerful. Why wont you continue writing on this topic? And may be this time around jot down some sentences those will involve school and college students. Because I believe corruption starts from every home- let it be forging an electric bill or bribing a treasure official for the clearance of bills, and so on.

At the end I appreciate your efforts, and also thank Mr. Fayaz for giving space for such a lovely piece of information.

Ashraf, I have a question for you. It seems you have done research on this, as I saw references to history. My question is - Do Kashmiri's belong to some king dynasty which may be the reason of their ego of being superior to rest of the world?

Eng'r Noor Ul Mushtaq
Al Taaraf Group of Companies, Dubai

The website is so impressive and beautiful that it brought tears of joy to me.I really appreciate your work with all my heartiest feelings and admiration,First time i saw that any kashmiri muslim has done a great job without the greed of any political and religious publicity. May Allah show his mercy over you always.

Dr. Shabir, Cardiologist

hi, my name is dr shabir qadri and i am a KASHMIRI working abord as cardiologist,i went thru ur editorial today in GK ,really u need appreciation for writing it as it is a matter of fact that none can help us(kashmiris) unless we help ourselves.

Rafiq Ahmad Ganie

asalamuailaikum sir i am your big fan my name is m.rafiq.hailing from bijbehara i like your kashmir centric articles .your columns carry very good knowladge of our beautifull prison that helps me to understand our kashmir sir you are source of inspiration for me.

Tadeusz Slupski,
Resident of San Diego USA and Warsaw, Poland

In the Ladakh Times website I have read with a big interest your article on the Opening New Routes to Ladakh. You wrote about possibility of reopening of the old caravan route from Kargil to Gilgit. In the year of Olympic Games in Beijing - I hope for a new progress in openness between nations, and some progress on the Western Tibet border, naturally the good will of two states is necessary.

Last year I visited Kashgar and tried to find foot-prints of a Polish traveller Bronislaw Grabczewski, who first crossed Hindu Kush and Karakorum range from Kashgar to Kanjut ( now: Hunza Valley ) in 1888, and also to Panamik in Ladakh through Karakorum Pass - so my dream is to repeat his route if political situation and border regulations allow. I would like to write a book about the early travellers from Eastern Europe - like Alexander Csoma de Koros in Zangskar, Grabczewski, Przewalski etc.

This year I am planning to visit your country again with my family, after 10 years and to see my old friends there, and their families, and to see the changes after 10 years, when I crossed Poat La with my son, going from Chamba through Pangi to Padum-Zangskar, and after 30 years, when I visited India, Kashmir and Zangskar my first time.

I would like also to know if you can be Mr Ashraf, Director of Tourist Department in Srinagar in 1977. If so - you may remember me - I crossed in October 1977 Himalaya on myself from Kishtwar through Kiar and Darang-Durung glaciers to Pantse La ( or Pensi La ), and was stuck by a big snowfall in Zangskar till the end of November. Mr Ashraf's brother or cousin, who had a high post in the Ministerium of Internal Affairs helped me to obtain prolongation of my visa and was very kind to take my by the Ministry vehicle to Jammu. I always remember their great help.

Munzir, Deutsche Bank

Salam Hi this is munzir. Let me introduce my self. I am from kashmir n have been studying and working in bangalore since six years. well it feels great to write to a person like u. I am really impressed with kashmirfirst. I believe in self governance and demilitarization of kashmir. Most of the well educated guys from my generation are leaving our homeland such a beautiful place n work in other states and countries. We browse net every day check mails chat with friend's and waist time on communities sites like friend finders, orkut , facebook etc But i hardly think any body even checks any news about what is happening back home. No body seems to be really interested. I started some communities but the response was pathetic. I really appreciate your work bec i think we should be with the technology and then only can we have our existence. so keep the good work going.

Sohail

I need to inform you that I have been following your articles with avowed delight and appreciation. However, the subject article has been the most incisive, analytical, mutually exclusive and exhaustive, and has unfolded a probable solution with due considerations to a decision making principle termed as "the process of elimination".

Nassarullah Khan

I hope u are in good mood. I am a journalism student. I have been reading your articles. especially with regard to Kashmir history and its related different issues. It is really thought provoking, educative, and informative. There are some elements who are all time deliberately distort our history by giving incorrect deceiving, and misleading historical facts. In fact noted columnist zg mohammed has raised several time in his articles that there is need to re examine and evaluate the all historical books related to Kashmir even the old raj tarangni. This is the time when we have not only to think seriously but we have to act especially our sincere, honest, credible historians have a great responsibility to rewrite Kashmir history so that anti Kashmiri elements who are trying hard to dilute our culture, history. Kashmiriyat, sindho darshan, amarnath yatra, and baseless myths about Kashmiris are well planned programme to create identity crises among Kashmiris. Our younger generation has no relation

Of our bright history and the same time their fore fathers are telling baseless facts

especially about Kashmir problem which was created in 47. As u are trying hard to not only giving right information, facts but also connecting the younger generation to their roots. u and other conscious Kashmiris especially honest historians, intellectuals(who are not govt paid), journalists, have to start campaign so that all the Kashmiris getting real, unbiased, right picture of our historical facts including political facts which are manipulated or deliberately distorted in the name of national interest or security. I need your help. Where I get books that will give insight of whole Kashmir history. I hope u will give me advice of and on so that would able to fight with these elements on this field. I will wait your response

Plz give me name of those books which will help me in this regard

Mohammad Shafi Magrey

I came to know about this site through today's GK newspaper, it is great to have a site like this, since it is a new site and most of the people who are out side Kashmir will visit the site, I will suggest you to keep the articles limited and well targeted.

Athar

Saw the advert of the website on GK and decided to check it out. I would like to congratulate you on a wonderful piece of work. I have just skimmed through the site and the information it give is great especially about the history. I would like to see more and more photographs on the site.

Dawood Ahmad Zahri

I got the address for your website on greaterkashmir.com. I must say after just looking at it for an hour or so I think it's a very educational website. It is very nice of Mr Ashraf and the staff to spend their valuable time to do research and present it to public. I live in America and have been living here for almost 13 yrs. Even though I visit Kashmir every year but there is a lot that I don't know about Kashmir that I learnt today. Anyhow, it's funny because my mother used to work in Youth Service and Sports Dept. old secretariat.
Well, I would like to hear more about our heritage. This always bothers me that I don't know where we came from. I would appreciate it if you guys can do more research on the subject.

Noorul Quereshi

Assalaumu Alaikum Mr Ashraf, Today for the first time I visited "Kashmir First" and I am glad I did. You have written a variety of articles and the subjects are of such significance to Kashmir and Kashmiris, that as a fellow Kashmiri, I must say "Khuda Keray ki Deay Zore Qalam Aur Ziyada." I have read a couple of your articles and Insha'Allah I will keep reading as long as people like you keep writing them. "A Welcome Awakening" has really moved my heart. That subject is also very dear to me. I have discussed it in various online forums. I was curious, if there is anyway I could give my comments on the article. I would also like to know, if you would allow others to write here.

Aftab Ahmad

It is a moment of pleasure for me, & I think for every Kashmiri, to see your consolidated work available at a single place on this website. You have done a remarkable job throughout your career & the great thing is that you are still on the same track. I have been hearing about you & your work from my father, who had been your batch mate at REC Naseem Bagh-Civil wing, right from my childhood. But I don't know if you remember him. Anyway the job you are up to is a really an appreciable one. Congratulations. I myself love the adventure sports & had been involved with many trekking events during my college days. I shall be sending you some beautiful pictures of Kashmir which you can upload on the site.

Farooq Sofi

I am pleased to see your new website. I have been reading your all articles in GK regularly. Kindly continue to highlight tourism of Kashmir and particularly those places which are equally scenic but sadly unknown to people outside. I feel lucky that I have been a member of J&K mountaineering club whose activities should be part of this website.
I wish you all success in future tasks for this website.

Faisal Punjabi

First of all congrats for initiating this step in the valley. Boss, add some interesting updates, so that at least max. Peoples will open this site. Job news of Kashmir, add this column. And some pictures of valley. Plz confirm weather you read my mail or not. Bye, my wishes are always with KASHMIR FIRST. Faisal Punjabi nawakadal

Aamir Khan

I would like to congratulate you to come up with such nice bundled information about Kashmir and its different aspects. I am working in Bangalore and always wanted to write my contribution of thoughts related to my home land and its growth and prospects; I really miss Kashmir a lot. You have initiated a commendable approach for which I wish you all the best and keep the good work going.

Also please let me know if I can contribute my thoughts to be put on this site.

Arif Nazir Jan

I am working as electrical engg in U.S Army Corps of Engineers in Arlington, my native place is Kashmir & my father is retd officer of TSM (Nazir A Jan).I like the way u represented the Kashmir.1 suggestion plz try to make ur website simpler, compact & in sections with photographs.

Rafiq

I have great respect for the people who by any means bring up Kashmir and its day to day life. I appreciate the step you have taken by launching this site. However, I feel there should be some space for Kashmiris residing outside valley. There should be a highlighted area on site for these people where they could tell readers about themselves. Some have done outstanding job in their respective fields.

I wish all the best to kashmirfirst.com

Shah Tanveer Aziz

It is a very good step. My first job in the morning is to get hooked with the net and surf the local newspaper "Greater Kashmir". It looks great when the areas relating to tourism are touched in all aspects. Whether it's some achievements or Govt's and public negligence casting the bad effect on our tourism. I would like to have a forum on this website where each member will share the ideas to renovate our leftover tourism in Kashmir. I also would like to have a section which will highlight the issues about which our Govt. and in fact general public is putting deaf ear such as "to save Dal lake, Govt's negligence and fault of responsible authorities." This should have a direct link to the authorities and general mass so that all know about it.

Syed Shaffat

Salaam sir, congrats for launching Kashmir first. My humble submission is to start an open online club wherein concerned individuals can share their feelings & point of view. "Yekeen mehkam amal payhum muhabat fateh e alam, jahade zindagani ma yeh haen mardoon ke shamsheeren"

Zarger Rafeeq Ahmad

It is not a suggestion but in regard to the Article `NEW SPEAK`. It really shows the absolute truth about our leader having so many faces. As I see no future for My Beloved Kashmir as long as they are there and am not sure about the next ones. As most coward people think that if one wants to make money then he has to be in any govt. related institute in Kashmir. I am 30yrs old and am last 12 years mostly out of Kashmir as I really do not see the future. I don't mean money but the place where Peace exists. If there is peace & love. That is all we need. And this will happen only when there is ABSOLUTE HONESTY which is very rare right now. We are lost but mostly due to our own elements I mean what we did without knowing its consequences in future. If u suggest me that I should not worry because GOD is there & HE will take us out of this situation. I do not believe coz HE has given us enough to think what is right and what is wrong. We must help ourselves. I appreciate u for what you are and what u wrote in the article. One needs to have courage for writing the TRUTH. Thank u SIR.

Mohsin

I am a student studying quite far from this heaven...although being called Kashmiri has been my inspiration. I always miss this place, "My home". Am writing no suggestion here but was really excited to read the news of launch of this website, and quickly visited it. It is really great to see such work being done......I am hopeful that this site will provide much needed information about this beautiful valley and not be stagnant as most of the sites are. It should also help in serving the society by bringing all social issues on front as is being greatly done by GK...

Mohsin Yaseen

It is a really great site with excellent info on Kashmir.
I think there is great potential for tourism in the state.
However visiting last year, I found disturbing scenes, especially the trash around our famous mughal gardens, or liquor bottles floating in the Dal Lake.
Tourism definitely has to be encouraged for the economic development of the state, but at the same time visitors and locals have to be educated on the impact and local traditions.

Dr.Nazir A Ganai

We do not find much information on this beautiful land on the face of globe. I would suggest to put all classified information about the state at your site, to see people around the globe recognize your efforts and contribution. I would suggest every thing from: topography (with exquisite photos), demography, history, culture, art and craft, tourism-and -places to visit with good photographs, agriculture, and more. But of course every thing purely unbiased. This would need quite a good contribution from learned people around you. See to it. If u like, u may receive more suggestions

Altaf Qadri

My name is Altaf Qadri, a photojournalist by profession. I always enjoy reading your articles regarding Kashmir. Since our ideology matches I would like to offer my pictures for your website voluntarily. I would be glad if I can be of any help in highlighting the plight of Kashmiri people.

Chaman Lal Kantroo

Congrats. The website is much needed. One may differ with the author in part or full at places, yet it provides a potent stimulus to the mind, information, forum and also food for thought. Hope the website will overcome short comings and develope into a full bloomed portrayal of valley-in all aspects.

Muneer Ahmad Dar

Hi... I am not going to claim anything from you guys. I just want to appreciate you efforts and dedication. I did not find any feedback option on this site so I am using this claim form to give my feed back. May Allah grant you success in the case for which you have launched this site

Roop Kishen

Your write ups are appreciable, for being research based .Just I would like to make a small correction. You have written about Hindu religion or belief that Shiva is the sustainer and Vishnu the destroyer. This is not correct. Vishnu is the sustainer and Shiva the destroyer. Plz correct it. For other things written I have no comments......yes well documented your write up is.

Got your mail and thanks for same. God is one, which all religions confirm. But He has three main works to undertake (in a very simple and humble way I say) meaning creating, sustaining, and ultimately destroying. Christians call Him by the name of GOD. Three words G for generator, O for operator, and D for destroyer. Hindus, the same way say there are three forms of that supreme power or say three main works of that supreme power, and have symbolically given particular names according to such works. Brahma the creator, Vishnu the sustainer and Shiva the destroyer. So God is only one not many. As far as Shiva's work is concerned, it is to destroy meaning the lord of death. I think I have cleared it in my humble way. Further more let me say, which of course is not our subject matter, but still.....according to Hindu religion, nobody has seen how the God Almighty looks like. So He is NIRANKAR, meaning shapeless .All the idols etc, or say photographs of various deities etc are just symbols drawn for concentration of mind. An Artists own imagination.

Thanks again and sorry to take your time.....Roop Kishen

Anayat

I was really happy to see your website. I would like u to write more about the history of Kashmir. I would also like to see more abut our culture and traditions. Since lot of people in Kashmir don't have access to internet, it would be great if u write articles in Urdu and English newspapers on our culture. Because some people are misunderstanding modernity by adapting to other lifestyles.

Zahoor Shah

I didn't see any updates on this site right from the date it started. I am a Kashmiri Computer engineer working in a software company in USA and liked this website a lot when it was started, but then everyday when I open it the same this is there. Please try to update it so that everyone can see and look it

Sohan Raina

Recently came to know about this website through Excelsior .Please explore KASHMIR fully (other than Mughal Gardens, Pahalgam &Gulmarg) so that whole World comes to know about these Tourist Spots. You surely will have many in mind than me. Thanks

Javaid Amin

Am one of your fans, have been reading your articles from the last 2 years especially on tourism & hydropower. Now I want think tanks like you should also suggest measures 2 help those industries which have become sick due 2 one reason r other.

Lyn Braz

I think it would be great if you dated your articles, so readers know when they were written and posted. Can you give me the date of the article, "Himachal Blooms While Kashmiris Fight"?

S K Raina

Sir, this is a very good site especially for Kashmir origin people and in person I have liked it as it is informative about Kashmir valley. Initially while launching this site by you two photographs of Tulip flower garden & one more was available on site and not available now. Please make these available I want to download it.

Dr. Hashim Iqbal

I am working as research associate in Lal Bhadur Shastari national Acdemy of Administration, Mussoorie. I want to have some information about the history of tourism in Kashmir. Please provide me some information about the said topic if you can. Since you have been associated with that sector there is possibility that you can provide me certain useful inputs regarding that?

Manzoor Ahmad Bhat

Very much impressed by the quality, candidness, lucidity and well researched
articles on Kashmir. One thing I would like to suggest that you have so far not written an article on the plight of widows and orphans of Kashmir. I hope you will give movement to your pen ASAP on this important issue...thanks

Dr.Fiaz Maqbool Fazili

Congrats for this step; this is what I was looking for; I know your passion for Kashmir- it is really good to see a personality like yours to lead youngsters; whom I know in absentia; many people died in Kashmir choked with sentiments and remained unsung you know them more closely- I hope you will do justice with them; Please keep it up upgrade it Dr Fiaz M Fazili. An open discussion forum-especially about your articles is needed; the hidden passion, other side of story will be unleashed, whether it is really Kashmir first? & how close it is to the teachings of our beloved prophet (pbuh) Dr Fiaz Fazili

Adil Rashid

Sir, I am a regular reader of your column Kashmir first. I appreciate your work. Keep it up and keep writing stuff like that. I am of the view that your columns regarding the tourism can present Kashmir as a Shangri-La for nature lovers at the international platform. It only needs to be marketed in a proper way. I suggest you to start a full fledged website entirely devoted to the Kashmir's tourism. It should incorporate all the facts, history, flora & fauna and other things like accommodation, mode of transport etc. This I think can do a lot good in presenting Kashmir at the international platform & also to the ailing tourism industry. Do send your humble suggestions in this regard.