Steps Towards Peace: Putting Kashmiris First

Even if India and Pakistan appear willing to allow more interaction across the Line of Control (LOC) that separates the parts of Kashmir they administer, any Kashmir-based dialogue will fail if they do not put its inhabitants first.

Steps Towards Peace: Putting Kashmiris First , the latest briefing from the International Crisis Group, identifies the key political, social and economic needs of Kashmiris that should be addressed on both sides of the divided state.

“Since the Mumbai attacks by Pakistan-based militants in November 2008, tensions between the two neighbours have eclipsed Kashmiri hopes for political liberalisation and economic opportunity”, says Samina Ahmed, Crisis Group’s South Asia Project Director. “This atmosphere of hostility is undermining the progress that had been made in softening the borders that divide the Kashmiri people”.

Suspended by India after the Mumbai attacks, bilateral normalisation talks known as the “composite dialogue”, which began in 2004, led to a number of steps to normalise relations, including Kashmir-specific confidence-building measures (CBMs) to restore communications routes and promote cross-LOC trade and travel. But without Kashmiri ownership of the CBMs and control in implementing them, any gains will easily be reversed whenever India-Pakistan relations take a turn for the worse.

Despite the recent rise in militancy, clashes between separatists and security personnel and other violence, Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) is not the battlefield it was in the 1990s. India has pledged to reduce its military presence and has made some overtures to moderate factions of the separatist All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC). The roots of Kashmiri alienation, however, still run deep, and outbreaks of violence occur regularly. J&K remains heavily militarised, and laws that encourage human rights abuses by security forces remain, fuelling public resentment that the militants could once again exploit.

India should revive the “special status” guaranteed by the constitution and repeal all draconian laws. Replacing military-led counter-insurgency with accountable policing and reviving an economy devastated by violence and conflict would instil greater confidence among Kashmiris.

On the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) side of the LOC, Pakistan must prioritise reforms that open political debate to all shades of Kashmiri opinion, stimulate the local economy and end AJK’s over-dependence on the centre. While Pakistan’s elected civilian leadership has expressed a desire for improved bilateral relations and for resuming the composite dialogue, it must ensure that jihadis, still backed by the military, can no longer disrupt the regional peace. Another Mumbai-like attack would have a devastating impact on bilateral relations and could conceivably bring the nuclear-armed neighbours to the brink of war.

“Even if India is persuaded to resume the composite dialogue, it is unrealistic to expect a solution to the Kashmir dispute in the near future”, says Robert Templer, Crisis Group’s Asia Program Director. “Both India and Pakistan should focus on creating a favourable environment for cooperation”.

Steps Towards Peace: Putting Kashmiris First

A Challenge: Follow the path of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat by Manzoor Dar

"Freedom and independence is the fate and destination of Kashmiris. Indian rulers or Pakistani generals and bureaucrats cannot enslave Kashmir for a long time. I am convinced that my motherland will see the dawn of independence, and that dreaded line that divides our hearts (Line-of-control) will disappear one day." - Shaheed Maqbool Bhat

Whereas peoples of the free world celebrate their independence days, the people of Kashmir have important days to remember the lives of its countless martyrs who gave complete sacrifice for the struggle to further the justice and freedom of their divided and occupied nation. First and foremost, Shaheed Maqbool Bhat is remembered and cherished as the pioneer of the people’s struggle for independence and re-unification of Jammu & Kashmir. And his death anniversary on February 11, the day upon which the government of India executed Maqbool Bhat despite serious judicial irregularities and a last minute mercy plea from the then President of India, is perhaps the single most important day on the Kashmiri political calender. February 11 might be the day upon which India put to death Maqbool Bhat the man, but it is also the day the dream and struggle of Maqbool Bhat became eternally embedded in the hearts and souls of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. On this day the dream, the struggle, and the sacrifice of Maqbool Bhat is eulogized by the masses with great fervor and public outpouring of pure dedication and determination.

An onlooker may ask why is it that the life and example of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat has assumed such  central position in the ideology and methodology of the struggle for freedom and justice in Jammu & Kashmir? The reason why is simple yet powerful. It is said that a person does not truly live unless he advances the condition of humanity. In the case of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat and his struggle to awaken his nation towards the fight against oppression and injustice it would not be an exaggeration to say that he lived a thousand lives. Not only did he take up the political independence of Jammu & Kashmir as a goal but he paid deep attention to the overall condition of the common man and humanity at large. His was a complete struggle that encompassed reform of society, promotion of tolerance, and push for economic justice. His oft-repeated saying indicates that he possessed great depth in his vision: "It's far better to die in the field in struggle against illiteracy, poverty and oppression and to achieve the glory of humanity while fighting against evil forces than to die in bed." Simply put, it is his ideology of justice and the sacrifice he gave for that which has won him eternal love from his people and respect the world over. It is safe to say that the allegiance of the common people to the path of Maqbool Bhat is unquestionable.

However, 15 years after the death of Maqbool Bhat it pains me know that this great Shaheed right no would definitely be turning in his grave and deeply hurt to see what has become of his beloved country. Violence and chaos appears to have taken over in such a way that there appears to be no sense or strategy to it and somehow the people’s struggle for independence has been by-passed. The course being followed by certain leaders and groupings of leaders has virtually no chance of achieving what Maqbool Bhat’s and the thousands of other Kashmiris’ sacrifice was for. As the recent spectacle of "bus diplomacy" rings true, the dynamics of the Kashmir problem has become slowly confined to the very bilateralism between India and Pakistan over Kashmir that Maqbool Bhat loathed. Furthermore, the ignoring of Kashmiris at the table can be attributed directly to the position which many of those who presently claim leadership took as willing benefactors to Pakistan’s territorial approach in Kashmir.

In addition to knowing about the suffering of his people, Maqbool Bhat would feel deep pain by observing the lack of direction and mistaken leadership that has befallen the present movement. For this reason alone, there is a pain and sorrow that many admirers of Maqbool Bhat feel weighing heavily upon their souls. This is a pain in knowing that the present struggle and particularly the present condition of leadership is far from being on the true path and example of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat and as such there exists a deep black cloud of uncertainty hovering over the fate of the people of Jammu & Kashmir - the very nation which Shaheed Bhat loved so very much. Maqbool Bhat said that even in captivity a freedom fighter is liberated as long as he remains conscious of his goal and principles. For this reason, the uncertainty and confusion existing in the present political atmosphere in Jammu & Kashmir can be called a warning sign that things are not on the right track and that in order for this movement to succeed, the people of Jammu & Kashmir must reform the present shape of the movement and return its course directly and solely on the path that Shaheed Maqbool Bhat paved for his nation.

One thing remains very clear: this movement is not lacking in the area of sacrifice and dedication of the people. After all, more than 50,000 Kashmiris have given their very lives for this cherished goals of freedom. Shaheed Bhat anticipated that terrible obstacles would be pushed in front of the people of Jammu & Kashmir if they were to demand their freedom. Indeed, his own lonely struggle was a taste of this hardship to come and it is a known fact that he faced terrible police-state oppression from the authorities of Pakistan and then later was actually murdered by India. Maqbool Bhat described his struggle: "It is easy to talk about freedom. But it needs a lot more courage and patience to fight for freedom. It is a path where every turn is full of tests. You go through such stages where your own friends on whom you relied, don't want to know you for their vested interests. They, even, leave you and make alliances with enemies."

It would be no exaggeration that Shaheed Maqbool Bhat would be proud of the common people who have demonstrated such patience. But with the same certainty, I am sure that Maqbool Bhat would be angered and ashamed of the way in which the leadership has behaved, specifically how it has bartered away the ideology and goal of independence by entering strange alliances or adopting ambiguous demands. To be more specific, I would like to discuss the way in which those claiming exclusive leadership have confused the struggle for independence and have reduced the Kashmir struggle to a squabble between India and Pakistan - as it is wrongly seen by the outside world now - because of the way it has been subservient to dictates of the occupiers.

Though these leaders criticize Pakistan and India’s mutual overtures and bilateral talks it is absolutely true that these leaders who have played the role of Pakistan and have confused the Kashmiri struggle by holding it hostage to their communal approaches and demand for UN resolution implementation. The very "help" they took from "friends" allowed the hijacking of this struggle. And above all, these leaders - some of whom were Indian politicians while Maqbool Bhat was struggling and when he was hung and some of whom have in the past labeled the Shaheed as an agent and his ideology as "kufr" - have conspired against Independent Kashmir thought. Namely, the present APHC Chairman has recently given statements only two-option self-determination and has ruled out what he called the "third option" of independence.

Interestingly, some of these same leaders are endorsing a strike for February 11. One can only guess that they want to exploit the genuine sentiments in order to fool the outside world that they command the sole leadership. Even Pakistan this year has had to make some vague recognition of Feb. 11: a sign that independent Kashmir is strong in the hearts of Kashmiris. To these individuals Maqbool Bhat is honored for only the fact that he was killed by India. But Maqbool Bhat’s contribution was not only going to the Indian gallows. So to these people it must be said that if they wish to honour the memory of a person they must honour the ideology and strategy of the person. Otherwise, it is just a publicity stunt exploiting the sacrifice of a great martyr they still have failed to truly understand.

So for the sake of the generations to come and for those who are currently carrying on the real struggle for the real goal of independence it is of the utmost importance that they endeavor to understand and heed the ideology and approach of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat. Indeed, a re-dedication to the path of Maqbool Bhat will serve to solve many of the problems currently facing the movement. In particular, two things must be emphasized: 1) his exactly defined goal of achieving a re-united and independent Jammu & Kashmir with a strong democratic and tolerant framework and 2) his strong belief that the struggle must remain in essence a struggle for the people and by the people.

On the first aspect, Maqbool Bhat’s goal of the re-unification and independence of Jammu & Kashmir, most people are quite clear what this implies and this is well understood by the masses. Above all many are aware that the solution of independence is perhaps the only way in which both India and Pakistan can make a just peace in Kashmir.

Regarding this, Maqbool Bhat was very determined that the struggle must be a truly egalitarian and unified struggle for national independence. He was also worried about the possibility that the struggle could be "hijacked" should the struggle’s goals be made ambiguous. In his own struggle, Maqbool Bhat refused Pakistani dictates and decided to struggle alone rather than allow his group to be used as a tool for a proxy war for different ends.

He emphasized the importance of the goal of independence: "Any fight without an ideology and without a clear goal can be hijacked by anyone with bigger power- we want to fight our own war, we will accept help but not interference". When asked about the need for Kashmiris to receive recognition, help, and sympathy from the outside world, Maqbool Bhat emphasized that this could not be at the cost of loosing the reigns of the movement: "We have to first prove that we are capable of running such a movement. Once we organise our nation help will come to us without any strings".

Maqbool Bhat was particularly worried that this conflict would become communalized by foreign conspiracy. Instead he insisted that the struggle for freedom be based upon the principles of universal justice. Indeed the following warning of Maqbool Bhat has come true in a prophetic way: "Any organisation or individual attempted to carry out independence movement in Kashmir on the basis of sect and religion will be deemed as an arch enemy of the nation, because it will lead to the division of the Motherland - where ethnic, linguistic and sectarian disputes and clashes will undermine the national unity and character - ultimate output of which is constant turmoil and infighting and an ideal situation for foreign subjugators to continue their direct and indirect rule and oppression. Kashmiris freedom movement based on sectarianism and religion can't muster international support whether it is launched at the behest of "secular India" or Islamic Pakistan. The only way to achieve national freedom for Kashmir is to demonstrate as United Kashmir Nation."

Regarding the rest, I would like to conclude with a strong request that the present intellectuals as well as the common people of Jammu & Kashmir contemplate the following advice of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat- I am sure that its implications are obvious regarding certain leaders’ erroneous belief that Kashmiris can look to the outside world as a saviour: "I can't be unjust to history, I would like to make it clear to you that regarding our problems which include wheat or educational problems to national political independence, until and unless Kashmiris themselves command and lead it - They will not succeed. It is the verdict of nature and history even. I'm here to give up this struggle if anybody from you comes up with a single example from nation's history, that any other nation of the world had fought, or lead freedom movement of another. No, never. But unfortunately, Kashmiri leadership always looked forward to others to organise and lead their movement (contrary to the wishes and aspirations of common Kashmiri people). Hence, loosing the image and status of a nation interested to be recognised as united under indigenous leadership and command. "

Since the departure of Maqbool Bhat, leadership has become in many ways a hated word in the minds of the common Kashmiri who has time and again given sacrifice for the just cause of freedom but has seen their goal become more and more elusive. Why is this? Perhaps it is because while the sacrifice of Bhat has been honored, his ideology and methodology has not been held as the standard for leadership. Maqbool Bhat believed that the Kashmiri leadership’s role was to serve the people and to live by example. He would never ask his people to do something he himself was not prepared to do. Is there a leader or any leaders today that can come close to this great person when all one observes is a group of individuals spending most of their energies in politicking, ego, and exaggerating their importance?

With my critical and even harsh analysis above, a reader may accuse me of being too cynical and demanding of the leadership. But with the level of supreme sacrifice that the people of Jammu & Kashmir have offered in the last 50 years, we should all expect impeccable leadership despite the conspiracies hatched by New Delhi and Islamabad. Some may say that such a servant of the people like Maqbool Bhat can never emerge again in Jammu & Kashmir. To this I conclude with a hopeful challenge to every political activist and every free-thinking Kashmiri who hopes for the freedom of his nation. People have matched the sacrifice of Maqbool Bhat, but have they endeavored to emulate the strategy of Maqbool Bhat?

I propose that such a leadership can emerge if they dedicate themselves to upholding true justice and understanding the complete picture that this father of the nation painted with his own blood. And it is for the purpose of keeping the dream alive that February 11th is so very important.

Perhaps we will have to wait for the children of today to grow but the struggle is far from being over. I conclude with a prayer that the following words of the visionary, Shaheed Maqbool Bhat, will come true: "Political and economic liberation of our nation demands incessant struggle and commitment, even lives be sacrificed so that next generation could follow our steps and could live an honourable life with a dignified way - and after death we would re-appear with different names and characters to continue the just struggle."

A Challenge: Follow the path of Shaheed Maqbool Bhat by Manzoor Dar

Kashmir: consensus proposal?

Kashmir: consensus proposal?

written by Shams Rehman

While the process of exploring various “solutions” to Kashmir Issue was initiated soon after the birth of Kashmir “problem” out of the barrels of the Indian and Pakistani guns in October 1947, till recently the process was confined to a bilateral Indian and Pakistan official framework or to the UN and US circles.

Over the past few decades, especially after the explosion of a massive uprising in the Indian occupied Kashmir following the rigged elections of 1987, the process seems to have expanded and proposals are being mushroomed from a wide range of individuals and agencies including Yousaf Bach a veteran Kashmiri from Valley settled in US after working with UN since the birth of Kashmir Problem; Bava Krishan Dev Setti from Jammu who fought hand in hand with other Kashmiris against maharaja system and migrated from Mirpur when Pakistani tribes and troops invaded the State. The Kashmiri organisations that proposed different solutions include National Conference, JKLF, Hurriyat, Peoples League, PDP, APNA (All Parties National Alliance), International Kashmir Alliance, Association of British Kashmiris, Balawirstan (Gilgit-Baltistan) Front etc. Some Western Think Tanks, BBC and South Asia based NGOs have also forwarded various proposals for peaceful resolution of the issue.

The proposals presented so far have some distinguishing features in terms of their implementation and outcome as some presume Autonomy, others the division on ethnic and/or communal lines and still others independence of the state. However, a close reading of all the suggestions seemingly challenges the general and wide spread perception that there is no common ground on which Kashmiris of diverse viewpoints and India and Pakistan can agree to find a mechanism of solving Kashmir question with a space and potential to be acceptable to all the contesting parties.

Drawing on various proposals this article tends to highlight the grounds for consensus and proposes a mechanism through which possibly a most inclusive, democratic, just and peaceful solution can be achieved for the issue of Kashmir that is used as one of the major excuses by the rulers of India-Pakistan and their subordinates in divided state of Kashmir for keeping people apart and building destructive war machines rather than houses, schools, hospitals, roads, factories, in short – lives.

Consensus indicators

1. Almost all proposals recognise the distinct identity and entity of the State of Jammu and Kashmir by accepting that the problem of Kashmir is a problem of the entire state and not of any particular region of Kashmir.

2. That the problem is to determine the future of this state which implies that the future is not determined as yet. Indian official position is that the entire state belongs to her while Pakistan claims it is hers and Kashmiris are generally divided between the accession to either India or Pakistan and independence.

3. There also seems a general agreement, at least, amongst Kashmiris that for any solution oriented exercise to be meaningful the involvement of Kashmiri peoples is indispensable.

3. Almost all external and internal proposals recognise the ethnic diversity of the State and suggest for the diversity to be incorporated in the processes to develop any mechanisms for a solution.

4. The view that Kashmir is primarily a political problem that has to be addressed through a political mechanism also seems shared by various forces involved in efforts to resolve the issue.

5. It is largely recognised in India, Pakistan and internationally that the movement in Kashmir Valley has not been instigated from outside. However, it is also widely perceived that foreign involvement had been there for various interests that not necessarily have been compatible with the interests of the peoples of the State.

6. It is well documented and acknowledged fact that the Human Rights are widely violated by the Indian armed forces in the Indian Administered Kashmir and that the first and foremost priority for engaging the peoples of Kashmir in any peace process is to end all human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Kashmir.

7. The fact that a large number of political activists and civilians are kept in Indian prisons without substantial grounds or in some cases without any charges is also acknowledged. Some who were charged and tried are kept in even after they have spent their tariffs .

8. Human Rights are also violated by some of the militant activities carried out by several groups fighting the Indian occupation.

9. Human Rights of the Kashmiris under Pakistani occupied Kashmir including Gilgit Baltistan are also not respected by the Pakistani governments in these parts of the State. Pro-independence politics is suppressed in AJK and Gilgit Baltistan. Open violation of State Subject, restrictions on the participation in politics and employment of pro-independence Kashmiris are also the other most identifiable and quantifiable examples.

10. There is also an expressed desire that peoples of Kashmir State must have right to free movement, socio-economic, cultural and political interaction and rights of free speech and association that have to be assured in all parts of the state.

11. At present the right of the peoples of the State to participate freely without any restrictions in the existing administrations in Gilgit, Muzaffarabad and Srinagar-Jammu is not fully recognised and respected.

12. The wishes repeatedly expressed by the people of Jammu and Ladakh for their regional assemblies similar to those in Valley, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan carry significant support amongst the Kashmiris across the division line as well as amongst Indians and Pakistanis.

13. It is also very obvious that none of the existing political parties, alliances or assemblies can claim as true representatives of the state in its entirety.

14. An estimated three million strong Kashmiri Diaspora in India, Pakistan, Middle East, Europe, Britain, USA and Canada has multiple links and attachments with, and stakes in, the affairs of their “homeland” and can play positive and constructive role in finding the solution as well as in the development of the State.

This list of course is not exhaustive and more possibilities for a broader consensus can be traced in the proposals. However, the most significant task facing the peoples of the divided State of Kashmir at present is whether a mechanism can be developed through which a wider consensus and state wide representation can be achieved? For India and Pakistan are internationally recognised states with relatively established systems of electing representative governments but no such system is currently available to the peoples of Kashmir for the entire state.

The State is currently divided, since 1947, into three administrative structures namely

a) Gilgit-Baltistan Council;

b) “Jammu and Kashmir” Assembly and

c) “Azad” Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. There is also ‘Hill Council’ in Ladakh. While these assemblies are elected with varying degrees of people participation, none of these is representative of the people who they claim to represent even in the modest sense. Similarly, while none of the dozens of political groups operating outside of the “official political institutions” of the State represents the entire state, they actually are not allowed to operate in the entire state.

Only those parties have access to mainstream politics and employment that have developed under, or are product of, the Indian and Pakistani States’ civil and military machineries operating in the State or those who accept the status quo and state’s accession to India / Pakistan on their respective side of the division line.

Suggestions to Resolve Kashmir question

Against this background some preliminary suggestions are outlined below for consideration of the people of Kashmir and beyond who are interested in and striving for enhancing peace, progress, development, justice, democracy and equality across the globe.

1. the first and foremost requirement for moving towards any meaningful solution to the problem, as suggested in several proposals, is to open the traditional travel routes between all regions of the divided state namely Gilgit, Hunza, Yasin,Baltistan, Ladakh, ‘Azad’ Kashmir, Jammu, and Kashmir Valley. In terms of travelling documents, the State Subject to be issued in a card form by the regional or district officers seems the best option available. Alternatively, the regional or district offices perhaps could be authorised to issue other agreed documents.

2. The next step should be the release of all political prisoners in all parts of the State.

3. India and Pakistan should mutually withdraw their armies away from the populated areas across the division line and in case of India from the towns and cities of the Indian occupied Kashmir (IOK) or as it is called by the Indian officials “The Jammu and Kashmir”.

4. All restrictions currently imposed on the freedom of press and association in the

Indian and Pakistani administered Kashmir, should be lifted at once followed by necessary constitutional amendments in all three existing political setups in Gilgit, Muzzafarabad and Srinagar-Jammu to make these assemblies fully inclusive and democratic by lifting restrictions on Pro independence parties.

5. Steps should be taken to recognise the demands by Jammu and Ladakhi people for regional assemblies.

6. All personnel deputed or appointed by the Indian and Pakistani governments (also commonly called lent officers) in Kashmiri administration should be replaced with locals.

7. All restrictions on Human Rights organisations and media should be lifted in all parts of the state.

8. Elections for local municipalities should be announced spontaneously across the state.

9. The local municipalities should carry out a comprehensive survey and analysis of local needs;

10. International observers and media should be requested to monitor the process of forthcoming election of regional and State assemblies.
11. Date for the elections of all regional assemblies should be announced simultaneously with inclusive right of all peoples of the State to participate in elections. The regional assemblies should have mandate for policies and strategies on regional affairs including local resources, development, trade and investment etc.

12. If any of the regional assemblies wish to join with neighbouring regional assembly of the state they should have right to do so.

13. After an agreed period an inclusive, democratic, fair and free elections should be held for the Interim Government for the entire state. In order to make this assembly to reflect the diversity of the state, representation should be allocated to all five regions according to the population of each region. One way of electing the representations from Kashmir diaspora in India and Pakistan and in USA, Europe, Britain and Middle East can be to allocate certain percentage of representation for diaspora according to their population.

14. All armies of India and Pakistan should be withdrawn from the territory of Kashmir State.

15. This interim government should be recognised by the international community including India, Pakistan and China as the representative government of the State with the mandate to represent Kashmiris in all negotiations regarding the future status of Kashmir.

16. After an agreed period all state subjects should be given an opportunity to decide the future status of the entire Kashmir state through a fair and free referendum.

While there is certainly a room for improvisation in the plan, it seemingly incorporates almost all of the proposals presented so far, internally and externally, to move forward towards a peaceful, democratic, just and inclusive mechanism of resolving Kashmir question. This proposal while does not rule out any outcome, it gives locally elected assemblies to all regions with the potential to stay beyond the final determination of the future status of the state whatever that might be.

The proposal primarily speaks to the interested individuals and groups in Kashmir – Valley, Ladakh, Jammu, “Azad” Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan and the diaspora. For after all it is the peoples of Kashmir who although form the primary party in Kashmir “dispute” are not represented in the ongoing process of negotiating Kashmir and are also deprived of any mechanism to elect the representative voice of Kashmir State. Critical feedback from wider viewers and readers would also be of great value for the proposal to be developed or improvised further. It is however clearly understood that without the support of peoples in and from all parts of the divided state of Kashmir this proposal is going to become just another addition in the growing long list of such documents.

About author: Originally from Mirpur (‘Azad’) Kashmir settled in UK since 1980s trying to actually write up PhD on ‘transnationalism from below and British Kashmiris’. Can be reached through email: shamakashmiri@yahoo.co.uk

Kashmiri capital Srinagar listed as dirty town: Indian survey

by Peerzada Arshad Hamid

SRINAGAR, India-controlled Kashmir, May 13 (Xinhua) -- Known as one of the most beautiful tourist resorts in the Himalayan region, India-controlled Kashmir is facing the risk of high pollution.

A survey by India's Urban Development Ministry has ranked Srinagar city, the summer capital of India-controlled Kashmir as the fourth dirtiest city among Indian cities.

The survey based on sanitation ratings, released Tuesday in New Delhi, said Srinagar figures in the "red zone" of pollution, as the city has scored a mere 19.1 on a scale of 100 in the National Rating and Award Scheme for Sanitationfor Indian Cities.
"The listing of Srinagar city as the fourth dirtiest city puts a question mark on the local government for its claims of spending money in sanitation and development sector. It should serve as an eye opener for our officials," said Burhan Majid, a lawyer at the City Court.

Srinagar is a picturesque city founded around the year 10 BC. It is an important tourist destination, for the city is famous for its lakes and gardens.

The city has a full-fledged Municipal Corporation that is entrusted with the job to keep city clean.


Of 423 cities ranked in the survey, Srinagar figures at 420 just above three lesser known cities -- Pilbit and Lakhanpur in Uttar Pradesh, and Churu in Rajasthan.

Environmentalists in the region for past two decades have been pointing to the poor sanitation and deterioration of water bodies in rinagar. However, their calls have long fallen on deaf ears.

Last year the region's High Court held the house-boats on the waters of Dal Lake responsible for polluting the lake.

It took cognizance of a report submitted by region's Pollution Control Board saying the open lavatories and refuse from kitchens of the house-boats are a major source of pollution in the lake.

Earlier, the board said water quality of the lake has deteriorated for the influx of pollutants in the lake is six to eight times more than the permissible limit.

At many places the drains carrying sewerage from the Srinagar habitations have been routed either to Dal Lake or to the river Jehlumthat passes through the city.

The latest sanitation survey categorized cities and towns on parameters like complete elimination of open defecation, elimination of open scavenging, safe collection and disposal of human excreta.

"Various expert agencies were involved to assess the status of sanitation on the spot in Class I cities. Data collected and assessment made by these agencies were further analyzed by technical experts and rating was done by awarding points for various parameters. On the basis of their performance, cities have been kept in four categories that are green, blue, black and red," a government statement said.


Ironically no Indian city could qualify in the green category while only four cities figured in blue category.

The Chandigarh city a Union Territory and capital of Punjab and Haryana sates was found to be the cleanest city in India.

Churu in Rajasthan was ranked the dirtiest. The rating according to a government statement have been listed to sensitize the administration and citizens of the cities about the current state of sanitation and to raise awareness regarding their improvement.

Kashmiri capital Srinagar listed as dirty town: Indian survey

JKLF-London meets with Prospective Parliamentary Candidate of labour party Gavin Shuker

Translated fro Urdu to English by Shabana Bashir

The meeting was headed by Professor Zafar Khan head of JKLF’s Diplomatic Committee

The panel of JKLF London had a formal meeting with Prospective Parliamentary Candidate of labour party Gavin Shuker which was headed by Professor Zafar Khan head of JKLF’s Diplomatic Committee and was attended by other senior members of JKLF including Raja Raouf Khan, Professor Muhammed Riaz, Haji Kaman Afsar, Syed Tehseen Gilani and others.

The panel updated Mr Shuker about latest issues in disputed kashmir and Prof Zafar Khan said that Britain and Labour party has to use their influence internationally in order to settle the issue of Kashmir by giving the Kashmiris their right of self-determination. He further said that it is Britain’s responsibility to sort this issue and hence suggested that Britain should take part in common wealth and pressurise India and Pakistan to give Kashmiris their birth right, right to self-determinate which is acceptable internationally. Mr Gavin Shker, reassured the panel that he will use his influence and raise the voice in British parliament to solve the issue of Kashmir peacefully and permanently.

JKLF-London meets with Prospective Parliamentary Candidate of labour party Gavin Shuker

Challenges, options and role of Kashmiri Diaspora

Challenges, options and role of Kashmiri Diaspora

Text of speech of Dr Shabir Choudhry in a seminar arranged by United Kashmir Peoples National Party in London on 25 April 2010.


Dr Shabir Choudhry is Director Diplomatic Committee of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir

Some previous speakers have said Pakistan is an advocate or wakeel of people of Jammu and Kashmir; and that Pakistan has suffered because of the support rendered to the people of Kashmir. They further said Pakistan has done many favours to people of Kashmir; and have kept the Kashmir dispute alive.

That is one way of looking at things, but there is, of course, an alternative view. I want to present that alternative view that people could understand facts about Pakistan’s support for Kashmir; and ‘favour’ Pakistan has done to people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Advocate or wakeel is always appointed or dismissed by a client. People of Jammu and Kashmir did not appoint Pakistan as their advocate, wakeel or representative. Pakistan is self appointed advocate and we have no faith in Pakistan’s sincerity or skills to promote our cause or protect our interests.

Furthermore, when the Kashmir dispute was taken to the UN Security Council by India it was registered there as the Kashmir Problem. It clearly indicated that the issue related to a separate territory other than India or Pakistan; and to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. First ‘favour’ the government of Pakistan did to the people of Jammu and Kashmir was to change that to India and Pakistan problem.

What this showed was that the problem was related to India and Pakistan and not to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. It also showed that Jammu and Kashmir was not a separate territory and people of that territory did not have separate identity and separate existence. It further showed that the dispute was a territorial one; and was not related to nation, its identity and future aspirations.

Let me now explain the second ‘favour’ the government of Pakistan did to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The UNCIP Resolution of 13 August 1948 stated that ‘the future status of the State of Jammu and Kashmir shall be determined in accordance with the will of the people and to that end, upon acceptance of the Truce Agreement both Governments agree to enter into consultations with the Commission to determine fair and equitable conditions whereby such free expression will be assured.’

The phrase ‘future status’ could mean an accession to Pakistan, an accession to India or an independent Jammu and Kashmir; and when this was confirmed by the UN, it was the government of Pakistan which requested the UN Security Council to change this phrase and replace it with the following: ‘The question of the accession of the State of Jammu and Kashmir to India or Pakistan will be decided through the democratic method of a free and impartial plebiscite.’

So it was Pakistan and not India, which limited Kashmiri peoples right of self determination to right of accession.

This self appointed advocate or wakeel thinks we people of Jammu and Kashmir do not deserve to be an independent nation. They think we do not deserve to use right of self determination. They think we do not deserve to benefit from fruits of independence and democracy. It was because of this thinking they did us another ‘favour’, and limited our right of self determination to right of accession. However they have ‘kindly’ allowed us - people of Jammu and Kashmir to choose our masters in the form of either acceding to India or Pakistan.

We, people of Jammu and Kashmir, are urged to join Pakistan – a country which has no system of accountability, no transparency, no democracy, no political stability, no rule of law, no concept of civil liberties, no economic stability, no electricity, no gas, no place for merit or honesty and which is at war with itself. A country which is in chaos, where terrorists are calling shots, where communal rivalry and violence is promoted, where government has no control in some parts of the country; and where some parts want to break away from the federation and future looks bleak.

People say there is no comparison between two sides of Kashmir because India has more than half million troops there. I agree there is no comparison. It is true there are more than half million troops. It is also true human rights abuse take place there, but despite 21 years of militancy, destruction and instability that area is far ahead of Pakistani Administered Kashmir.

They have what we cannot even dream of on this side of the LOC. They have medical colleges, technical colleges, engineering colleges, free education, high literacy rate, freedom of speech, freedom of travel, freedom to protest etc. They have human rights abuses but they have a system of recording those abuses and highlighting them.

Don’t be under any illusion, human rights abuse also takes place on this side of the LOC, but we have no system of recording that; in fact, no one dares to speak against that because of the repercussions. Leaders on that side of the LOC shout against India and yet they travel to all parts of Jammu and Kashmir, visit Pakistani High Commission in New Delhi and eat chicken tikkas.

Whereas on this side of the LOC, Azad Kashmiri Prime Minister and President cannot even travel to Gilgit Baltistan, and area part of the State. Azad Kashmiri leaders and political activists cannot even think of going to the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. They are not even allowed to have peaceful demonstrations and prime examples are the demonstrations of Mirpur and Rawalakot, where people demonstrated against electric load shedding and problems associated with that.

More electricity is produced in Mirpur and other parts of Azad Kashmir than our requirement, and that electricity is used in Pakistan and we don’t get enough to meet our needs. People of Mirpur and Rawalakot were demanding electricity and an end to more than 14 hours a day load shedding. They were peaceful and they had no guns, and yet they were mercilessly beaten up and guns were used against them injuring scores of innocent people.

Just imagine if these people were trained by India, guns were provided by them and these guns were used against Pakistani army in Azad Kashmir, then you would know what human rights abuse is. Everyone knows it was Pakistan who trained militants, gave them guns, and asked them to use them against the Indian army. India reacted and committed human rights abuses, and now they have more than half million army there. No one can defend that. But ask yourself if they had half million army there before the start of the militancy. Answer is no. So those who started militancy, trained men, sent guns and bombs provided a reason for India to station this large army there.

Many more examples could be given to explain the situation regarding two parts of Kashmir, but due to time I cannot go in to details. But I have to tell you some more facts, bitter as they are. Those leaders and parties who preach you to liberate the Valley of Kashmir or Indian side of Jammu and Kashmir first are not sincere with the cause of Kashmir.

In disguise these people are promoting someone else’s agenda. Their aim is not to liberate Kashmir, but to promote interests of those who want to keep India engaged in Jammu and Kashmir. They want to give this impression that problem is only on the Indian side of the divide, and on the Pakistani side of the divide everything is rosy. That is not true. This part is also occupied, but people are hoodwinked in name of religion and brotherhood. We should learn how Pakistan has practically annexed our motherland - area of Gilgit Baltistan.

On this side of the LOC, we are occupied by Pakistan. Our resources are exploited by them. Our struggle is on this side of the divide. My struggle starts from Bhimber. It starts from Mirpur and Kotli and other parts of Pakistani Administered Kashmir. People of the Indian side of Kashmir are struggling for independence on that side of the divide and they are making big sacrifices. I feel their suffering. I admire their spirit and sacrifices. I fully support that struggle; and want to help and advance the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir.

My words might appear harsh, and some might call this ‘anti Pakistan’. I am not anti Pakistan; in fact no Kashmiri is anti Pakistan. Examples I have given regarding Pakistani role are historical facts. I am not here to promote a Pakistani interest. My mission is to promote a Kashmiri interest and explain to people who have done what against us to harm us, and to enslave us. In discharging this duty if another country’s strategic or other interest are damaged it DOES NOT worry me. It DOES NOT worry me if people dislike or oppose me for promoting a Kashmiri interest.

In conclusion, we people are faced with challenges of extremism, violence and hatred. We are challenged by anti democratic anti liberal forces. We people of Jammu and Kashmir do not have many choices. We have only two choices: accept this intimidation and occupation and become collaborators, or stand up and oppose them. Come what may, we have decided to stand up and fight them back. END

JKLF in London CONDEMNED the Banishment of its leadership from Gilgit-Baltistan

JKLF in London CONDEMNED the Banishment of its leadership from Gilgit-Baltistan

Translated from Urdu to English by Shabana Bashir

JKLF London has condemned the exile of JKLF chairman Sardar Saghir Advocate, another political leader Sardar Raja Mazhar Iqbal and many others who were made exile from Gilgit on 28th Arpril. JKLF said that the exile of these leaders is part of Indo-Pak propaganda to divide kashmir into further parts. In a press release London, JKLF that historically, constitutionally and lawfully, the agreement of Karachi is clear evidence that Gilgit, Baltistan is a part of Jammu & Kashmir and if this was not the case, the Government of Pakistan did not need to make agreement with the free government of the region. It was further said in the press release, that if Pakistan wanted to give full right to Gilgit, Baltistan people, the simple resolution was to make Gilgit baltistan, a part of Azad Jammu and Kashmir where a combined Government could have been made which would have given more importance to the dispute of kashmir. On the other hand, it is also said that its clear now that Pakistan has same intrest in Kashmir as India and the both countries are equally responsible for the divide of Kashmir and that further attempts are being made to sub-divide Kashmir. J & K and Gilgit Baltistan, never accepted Karachi agreement and will never accept it in future too, said JKLF.


In a statement from London, JKLF said that the concept of Independent Kashmir is strengthening its roots amongst the people and youth of Gilgit Bltistan which has caused frustration amongst the conspirers. Recent successfull seminar organized by JKLF cleared the misunderstandings between Jammu & Kashmir people and Gilgit Baltistan people but it is not acceptable by the conspirers, therefore the exile of JKLF leadrs is a clear evidence that the conspiracy to further divide Jammu and Kashmir is on rise and the democratic govenrment of Gilgit Baltistan is just for name but has no democratic role in reality.

JKLF senior leaders strongly condemned Pakistan’s action to make Gilgit Baltistan a part of Pakistan and said that any part of Kashmir State (Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan, Jammu, Kashmir) is neither Jagular vein nor Integral part on any occupying country. Kashmir belongs to Kashmiris and any attempt by either country will be resisted by Kashmiri people.

Troops kill father of 7 daughters

* Protests Rock Keller

* 2 Army Vehicles Torched

* 4 Protesters Wounded

* Police Register Murder Case

The army troopers on Saturday shot dead a civilian and critically injured another near Keller, nearly 60 kms south of Srinagar. The killing triggered violent anti-army protests with demonstrators setting ablaze two army vehicles. Troopers later opened fire on protesters injuring at least four civilians.


According to the residents of Chewan village, troopers of 53 Rashrtriya Rifles had laid an ambush in the area last night. “The army fired at labourers who had gone to forest to collect the firewood just before dawn. One of them, Ghulam Muhammad Kalas, died on the spot, another Manzoor Ahmad Lone sustained critical injuries while their another associate fled from the scene,” locals told Greater Kashmir.

“They almost emptied their guns on them,” they said. “Two horses they were riding were also hit by bullets and were lying dead on the spot.”

Police have claimed that the deceased and his associates were “timber smugglers,” but locals termed police version as a “blatant lie.”

“They were labourers who had gone to collect the firewood. Had army asked them to stop they would have definitely followed the instructions. It is a cold blooded murder,” they said. Locals also raised the point why police was not accompanying the army if it had laid an ambush for militants.

VIOLENT PROTESTS

As soon as the word about Kalas’ death in army firing spread in the area, youth took to streets and staged a massive anti-army protest. The angry protesters also set ablaze two army vehicles parked on the midst of the road leading to the village. The protesters were demanding action against the erring army personnel.

Troopers later fired on the protesters injuring four youth, two of them critically. The injured were identified as Yawar Maqbool Lone, Riyaz Ahmad Mir, Muhammad Ahsan Lone and Manzoor Ahmad Lone—all residents of Chewan.

MURDER CASE AGAINST ARMY

The Superintendent of Police, Shopian, Shahid Me’raj said, the deceased along with his two other associates was returning home after dumping the “smuggled timber” at some place.

“When they reached near Chewan, troopers who had laid ambush in the area, suspected them as militants and challenged them. They tried to run away following which troopers opened fire killing one of them on the spot and injuring his other associate”.

He said police have registered a murder case (FIR. No. 168/10) against Army under section 302 RPC.

Asked about the army firing on the protesters, he said: “Protesters set ablaze two army vehicles following which troopers had to fire in self-defence.”

Police have also registered an FIR No 169/2010 under section 148, 147, 435 RPC against the protesters for taking law into their hands.

ARMY VERSION

Army’s Srinagar-based spokesman, Lt Col J S Brar said, “As per our inputs we had information about the presence of militants in the area and we had laid an ambush at around 4:00 am in the area. On seeing some persons riding on the horses, our men got suspicious and asked them to stop but despite our repeated warnings they tried to run away, forcing us to suspect them as militants and open fire on them.”

However, he denied the allegations that the army men fired on the protesters. “Troops did not open fire despite mob torching two of our vehicles. We don’t know who fired on them. Police and the officials of the district administration were present on the spot.”

DC SPEAKS

The Deputy Commissioner, Shopian, Abdul Majid Khanday, admitted that the army was involved in the killings, “There is no need to order magisterial probe as the army has admitted that its men are involved. A murder case has been registered against the army and the law will take its own course.”

On the firing on the protesters he said, “Troopers were forced to open fire on as mob went on rampage and set ablaze some of their vehicles.”

PDP CONDEMNS

Strongly condemning killing of Ghulam Muhammad Kalas, in Chewan village in Keller followed by firing on unarmed protesters, president of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Mehbooba Mufti regretted that situation in Kashmir Valley has been deteriorating with every passing day due to “wrong policies” of the National Conference led coalition in the state.

“Incidents of human rights violation have been increasing but the government is not seriously stopping such incidents,” Mehbooba said in a statement.

She pointed out during the last 15 months incidents of HR violations have increased manifold as the government has failed to keep “security forces under control.”

She reiterated demand of her party that Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA) should be revoked to avoid recurrence of such incidents. “Perpetrators of human right violation have been taking benefit of harsh laws like AFSPA and revocation of such acts was must to stop killing of innocent people.”
 
Troops kill father of 7 daughters

Mirwaiz under house arrest and same day is being invited to OIC session Tajikstan

Mirwaiz put under house arrest in Srinagar

Srinagar, April 23: In occupied Kashmir, the authorities put the Chairman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference (APHC), Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest at his residence, today as they always do.


Mirwaiz was to lead a protest demonstration after Juma congregation at Jamia Masjid Srinagar. A complete strike is being observed across the occupied territory, the call for which has been given by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and veteran Kashmiri Hurriyet leader, Syed Ali Gilani.

Meanwhile, Indian troops injured several peaceful demonstrators in Baramulla town and Maisuma area of Srinagar who were staging anti-India protests against the Indian court verdict.

OIC invites Mirwaiz to session in Tajikistan

On the other hand The Organisation of Islamic Conference (OIC) has invited the Chairman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference (APHC), Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to attend the 37th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers to be held from May 18 to May 20 in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.


Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has been jointly invited by the General Secretariat of the OIC and the Government of Tajikistan.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued in Srinagar, the APHC Chairman confirmed his participation, adding that he would impress upon the participants to speed up their efforts for resolving the long-pending Kashmir dispute in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of Kashmiris.

The statement said that he would also raise the massive human rights violations in occupied Kashmir by Indian troops. “He would also urge the participants to use their influence in getting all the detainees, languishing in different jails in and outside the territory released, unconditionally,” it maintained.

Dream: To promote brand Kashmir.

Dream: To promote brand Kashmir.

They dreamt of setting up an e-bay for brand Kashmir. And it may well have remained in the realm of fantasy if Kashif Khan, 24, and Rayees Rasool, 25, had given up. Having developed a plan to e-manage a range of community services in Kashmir, their first project was to train students at the Islamic University of Science and Technology in integrated chip design. When they went looking for trainers in big cities, nobody wanted to come to the valley of uncertainty. That didn't stop Khan from undergoing a 15-day course, coming back and training nearly 70 students himself. If people wouldn't come to Kashmir, they would take Kashmir to the world. As they sit now in a warm Srinagar café on a chilly winter day, Khan and Rasool, trained as engineers in Jammu and Pune, bubble with enthusiasm.

While Khan has founded his own company, Resolute Consultancy Services, Rasool has started iGear Solutions. Their confidence stems from their own professional competence. "We're trying to create opportunities not just for ourselves but for others. We should not be judged by a political yardstick," says Khan. The government for them is not a provider of employment but a potential customer. And though they tried to partner with the state in its ambitious e-governance project with no success, they have taken on the J&K Bank's Khidmat centre, connecting a 1,000 village branches. Their Kashmiri identity may be a baggage but they are learning to travel light.