Sheikh Khalid

The local leaders must stop indulging in the blame game and instead take a hard look at their own actions

Srinagar recording just 30% voting in the second phase of assembly elections has once again shown that its residents have increasingly lost faith in electoral politics. This disillusionment stems from the perception that mainstream politicians, who have historically represented the region, have betrayed the people for personal gain. The democratic process, meant to empower the populace, has been repeatedly manipulated by those in power, leaving the citizens of Srinagar disenchanted and disillusioned.

From the assembly elections held between 1996 and 2014, a pattern emerged that has deeply scarred the political landscape of Srinagar. Many of the candidates who claimed to represent the people had dubious backgrounds, marred by corruption and nepotism. These politicians, instead of serving the people, exploited their positions for personal benefit, furthering their own agendas while leaving the common people to suffer the consequences of poor governance. Their actions turned democracy against the very citizens it was designed to uplift.

One of the clearest manifestations of this exploitation was the low voter turnout in these elections. Despite boasting of being representatives of the people, these politicians secured only a meagre percentage of votes. Yet, they claimed to be the voice of Srinagar, thriving in an environment of political apathy and boycott politics. Rather than encouraging participation, they capitalised on the lack of voter engagement to maintain their hold on power. They manipulated the system, knowing full well that the fewer people voted, the easier it was for them to secure victory.

The political landscape of Srinagar was for long characterised by voter boycotts. In part, this was driven by disillusionment with the electoral process itself.

Electorate had developed a feeling that their votes do not count, that the system is rigged, and that those in power are more interested in personal gain than in serving their constituents.

This disillusionment has been exacerbated by the fact that many of these politicians come from privileged backgrounds, disconnected from the everyday struggles of the people they claim to represent.

For years, the mainstream politicians thrived on election boycott calls. Rather than addressing the concerns of the electorate, they took advantage of the low turnout to consolidate their own positions. This created a vicious cycle, where the fewer people voted, the more entrenched these politicians became, and the more disenfranchised the people felt.

Instead of introspection, the politicians have resorted to a blame game, diverting attention from their own failures.

As the political landscape in Kashmir shifted with the rise of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Center, Srinagar’s mainstream politicians found a convenient scapegoat. The low voter turnout in recent elections, hovering around 30%, has now been blamed on the central government. These politicians argue that the BJP’s policies have alienated the people of Srinagar, discouraging them from participating in the democratic process. This argument conveniently ignores the role that local politicians have played in eroding faith in electoral politics. By focusing on the Central Government’s policies, these politicians are avoiding taking responsibility for the decades of mismanagement and corruption that occurred under their watch. The blame game, while politically expedient, does little to address the root causes of voter apathy and disillusionment in Srinagar.

Rather than introspecting on their role in creating this crisis, the political class has instead chosen to blame others. This lack of self-reflection only deepens the divide between the people and their representatives, reinforcing the perception that these politicians are more interested in securing their own positions than in genuinely addressing the concerns of the electorate.

At the heart of this crisis is the erosion of democratic institutions in Srinagar. For too long, politicians have used these institutions as tools for personal gain, rather than as mechanisms for public service. The result has been a system that is deeply flawed, where the will of the people is often ignored or undermined.

The politicians who once held power in Srinagar must confront the fact that they played a direct role in weakening these institutions. By prioritizing their own interests over those of the people, they compromised the integrity of the democratic process. This not only disillusioned voters but also damaged the credibility of the very institutions that are supposed to protect and uphold democratic values.

Now, as these same politicians find themselves out of power, they must reckon with the consequences of their actions. The people of Srinagar have lost faith not just in individual politicians but also on their parties.

Rebuilding this trust will require more than lip service; it will require a deep and honest reckoning with the past.

The local leaders must stop indulging in the blame game and instead take a hard look at their own actions. They must ask themselves how they allowed democracy to be undermined during their time in power. They should understand that people are no more interested in their theatrics and have exercised their franchise for a change.

Article Source: Betrayal and Blame – Greater Kashmir

Geneva: [Switzerland], June 28 (ANI): In a significant display of progress and development initiatives, a banner exhibition highlighting advancements in Jammu and Kashmir was held at the Broken Chair Geneva just outside the United Nations headquarters on Friday.

Organised by Sheikh Khalid , an author and peace activist from Srinagar, in collaboration with global human rights defender Elena Vallejo, the exhibition aimed to showcase the positive transformations in the Union Territory of India.

The exhibition featured a series of posters illustrating various technological interventions, advancements in food technology and processing, innovative approaches to Dal Lake cleaning, silk weaving traditions, and projects under the Srinagar Smart City initiative.

Sheikh Khalid emphasized the event’s role as a platform to communicate strides made in tourism, education, and environmental conservation efforts, particularly highlighting ongoing initiatives to rejuvenate Dal Lake.

Reflecting on historical context, Khalid underscored Kashmir’s decision in 1947 to integrate with India as a secular nation, opting for democracy and progress over alignment with Muslim-majority Pakistan.

Speaking on the current government’s efforts in combating cross-border terrorism, Khalid expressed satisfaction, a sentiment echoed during his participation at the 56th Session of the UN Human Rights Council . “The exhibition not only celebrates the rapid development in the Union Territory but also aims to counter extremist ideologies, particularly among the youth,” Khalid remarked.

“It signifies a shift towards positive narratives and showcases the resilience of Kashmiri people amidst challenges,” he added. Khalid highlighted that the exhibition marks a pivotal moment in showcasing Kashmir’s journey towards prosperity and peace on the global stage.

The event received positive reception as it conveyed a message of progress and resilience, shedding light on Kashmir’s evolving socio-economic landscape.

Article Source: https://aninews.in/news/world/asia/geneva-exhibition-showcases-rapid-development-in-jampk-at-un20240628192149/

Jammu and Kashmir has long been caught in the crosshairs of geopolitical conflict. Among the myriad challenges it faces, one of the most insidious is the persistent threat of terrorism orchestrated across the border by Pakistan.

This menace is not just a matter of security but a calculated effort to undermine the economic prosperity of Kashmir. As Kashmiris, we must recognize this reality and take collective action to safeguard our future.

Pakistan’s approach towards Jammu and Kashmir has been driven by a desire to bleed the region through a thousand cuts. This strategy involves fostering and facilitating terror attacks with the specific intent to create instability and economic disruption. By making Kashmir appear unsafe, Pakistan aims to deter investment, hinder development, and perpetuate a cycle of poverty and despair.

Terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir have profound and far-reaching consequences on its economy. Each attack not only claims innocent lives but also sends shockwaves through the economic fabric of the region. Businesses suffer, tourism declines and the overall investment climate becomes hostile. The ripple effects of a single terror incident can halt economic progress for months if not years.

J&K relies heavily on tourism. The natural beauty, cultural heritage, and hospitality of its people make it a coveted destination. However, terror attacks create fear among the people. The Tourism sector supports thousands of livelihoods but it faces severe setbacks every time violence erupts.

For any region to thrive economically, a stable and secure environment is crucial. Persistent terrorism creates an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, deterring both domestic and international investors. Without investment, job creation stagnates, infrastructure development slows down, and economic growth becomes an elusive dream. Small and medium enterprises, the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, suffer immensely due to the instability.

Beyond the economic implications, the human cost of terrorism is staggering. Innocent lives are lost, families are shattered, and communities are left to grieve. The psychological trauma inflicted on the people of Kashmir cannot be quantified. Children grow up in an environment of fear, and the social fabric of society is repeatedly torn apart.

The time has come for Kashmiris to take a stand. We can no longer afford to be mute spectators while our homeland is systematically destabilized. Every Kashmiri has a role to play in this fight against terrorism and the preservation of our economic future.

It is essential for all segments of society—political leaders, civil society, trade bodies, and ordinary citizens—to unite and raise their voices against terrorism. This unity will send a strong message to the perpetrators and the world that Kashmir will not succumb to fear and violence.

Political leaders must prioritize the safety and economic well-being of Kashmir above all else. They should work towards policies that strengthen security, promote economic development, and create opportunities for the youth. Leadership should also engage in diplomatic efforts to hold Pakistan accountable for its actions.

Civil society organizations and trade bodies have a crucial role in fostering resilience and economic stability. They can initiate programs that support local businesses, promote tourism, and provide vocational training to the youth. By building a robust economic foundation, they can help mitigate the impact of terrorism.

Raising awareness about the true impact of terrorism on Kashmir’s economy and society is vital. Public advocacy through various media platforms can highlight the plight of Kashmiris and garner support from the broader national and international community.J&K’s strength lies in the unity and resilience of its people. Historically, people of J&K have shown an indomitable spirit in the face of adversity. It is this spirit that must be harnessed to counter the threat of terrorism and pave the way for economic prosperity.

Communities need to be vigilant and proactive in identifying and reporting suspicious activities. This collective vigilance can act as a deterrent to terrorist activities and enhance security at the grassroots level.

The youth of J&K are its future. Engaging them in constructive activities, providing them with education and employment opportunities, and involving them in the fight against terrorism can create a positive impact. Empowered youth can act as ambassadors of peace and prosperity.

The recent ruthless terror attacks in Jammu had only one objective to disturb the economy of the Union Territory. Pakistan wants to kill everything which is linked with Jammu and Kashmir.

It’s unfortunate but true that Kashmir-based leaders fall short of condemning Pakistan. It seems they tend to believe that their role is over by issuing statements or by writing a few lines on social media.

These leaders should understand that they have to muster courage and call a spade a spade. They can’t act as mute spectators and allow the terrorists sponsored by Pakistan to call the shots.

J&K stands at a crossroads. The path to economic prosperity is fraught with challenges, the most significant being the threat of terrorism from across the border. However, with collective action, unity, and determination, J&K can overcome these obstacles. It is time for Kashmiris to wake up and fight this battle on their terms. By standing together against terrorism, we can protect our homeland, preserve our culture, and secure a prosperous future for generations to come.

The mission is clear: to make Kashmir a beacon of peace, stability, and economic success despite the adversities we face.

Source: https://www.awazthevoice.in/opinion-news/kashmiri-must-proactively-stand-up-to-pak-s-plan-to-ruin-its-economy-29471.html

Failure of elected representatives to prioritize public welfare and development

For the past three decades, the landscape of governance in Kashmir has been marred by a stark reality: elected MLAs, entrusted with the responsibility of serving the people, have instead prioritised their personal ambitions and interests, neglecting the pressing issues and urgent needs of the populace.

As the region grappled with socio-economic challenges and political turmoil after the Pakistan sponsored terrorism broke out in 1990, failure of elected representatives to prioritize public welfare and development stood as a damning indictment of their leadership.

During the past three decades many elected MLAs in Kashmir focused their efforts not on uplifting the lives of their constituents but on constructing lavish personal mansions and amassing wealth at the expense of public funds. While the people of Kashmir languished in poverty and deprivation, their elected representatives indulged in opulence and excess, betraying the trust bestowed upon them by the electorate.

Furthermore, the plight of the people was exacerbated by the prevalence of fake encounters, which had become disturbingly normalised under the watch of these elected representatives. The irony is palpable: those who were elected to safeguard the interests of the people were complicit in their victimisation, orchestrating violence and perpetuating fear to maintain their grip on power. Instead of serving as guardians of the public trust, they became perpetrators of injustice and oppression.

Equally egregious is the systematic sabotage of development projects and infrastructure initiatives that could have uplifted the socio-economic condition of the region. While neighboring states progressed and prospered, Jammu and Kashmir remained mired in underdevelopment and stagnation, a direct consequence of the negligence and incompetence of its elected representatives.

Rather than championing progress and prosperity, they chose to stifle growth and perpetuate a cycle of dependency and despair.

Perhaps most insidious of all is the cynical manipulation of public sentiment by these elected MLAs, who peddled a narrative of victimhood and persecution to deflect accountability and maintain their stranglehold on power.
By scapegoating New Delhi and portraying themselves as champions of Kashmiri autonomy, they sought to exploit the legitimate grievances of the people for their own political gain, all while abdicating their responsibility to govern effectively and ethically.

Their self-serving politics was epitomised by their fixation on personal security and privileges, symbolised by bulletproof vehicles, elaborate escorts, and ostentatious security details. Rather than channeling resources towards improving public safety and infrastructure, they squandered taxpayer money on extravagance and excess, betraying their duty to serve the people with humility and integrity.

In their pursuit of power and prestige, these elected MLAs lost sight of their primary obligation: to serve the people of Jammu and Kashmir with dedication and humility.

Their behaviour mirrors that of Ahmed Shah Rangali, the ruthless conqueror who cared little for the welfare of his subjects. Like feudal lords presiding over their fiefdoms, they reveled in adulation and praise, deaf to the cries of the marginalised and disenfranchised.

It is incumbent upon Kashmir based politicians to shed their feudal mindset and embrace their role as public servants, accountable to the people they purport to represent.

They must prioritise the needs of the populace over personal ambition, eschewing the trappings of power in favour of genuine empathy and compassion. Only then can they begin to atone for their betrayal and restore faith in the democratic process.

Kashmiri politicians should understand that times have changed and they can no longer project New Delhi as enemy of people.

People of J&K during the past five years have heaved a sigh of relief. Terrorism has been wiped out. Era of stone-pelting, street protests and strikes has ended. People are performing their daily chores without any hindrances and are living peacefully.

Past five years have proven beyond doubt that New Delhi is a true friend, whom people of Kashmir can look towards and count upon.

When politicians were in power or out of power they act like monarchs and feudal lords at the cost of Indian state. But they need to understand that nothing is permanent and they are no kings.
If they have to remain relevant then they will have to serve the people rather than expecting the common masses to be their disciples. The time for change is now, lest the people of Kashmir continue to suffer at the hands of those who should be their staunchest advocates.

Article Source: https://sheikhkhalid.com/from-guardians-to-perpetrators/

M Modi sidelines political brokers, engages directly with people

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a massive rally at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, his first since the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019. 

This monumental event marked a departure from traditional political protocols as PM Modi chose to directly engage with the people of Kashmir, bypassing political brokers. The rally was not just a demonstration of political prowess but also a testament to the evolving relationship between New Delhi and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Standing before thousands gathered at the BakshiStadium, Prime Minister Modi exuded confidence and optimism, expressing his happiness over the positive reception he has received from the Kashmiri people since the transformative decision to revoke Article 370. His decision to interact directly with the people of Kashmir symbolized a departure from the conventional political approach, emphasizing a more grassroots connection with the populace.

One of the key highlights of PM Modi’s address was his acknowledgment of the progress witnessed in Jammu and Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. He spoke passionately about the developmental initiatives undertaken by the Central Government aimed at fostering growth and prosperity in the region. 

The Prime Minister emphasized that the government’s efforts were not merely focused on infrastructural development but also on holistic growth, encompassing education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

By engaging directly with the people, Prime Minister Modi sought to bridge the gap between the Central Government and the residents of the region, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in the administration’s intentions.

Throughout his address, Prime Minister Modireiterated his commitment to the welfare and progress of the Kashmiri people, emphasizing that their aspirations and concerns were at the forefront of the government’s agenda. 

He reassured the people that the government was dedicated to ensuring peace, stability, and prosperity in the region, irrespective of any external influences or vested interests.

The rally at Bakshi Stadium served as a platform for Prime Minister Modi to reaffirm the government’s resolve in upholding the principles of democracy and inclusivity in Kashmir. By directly engaging with the people, he instilled a sense of confidence in the government’s vision for the region’s future.

Moreover, PM Modi’s address resonated with the sentiments of the Kashmiri people, many of whom expressed their appreciation for his efforts to reach out to them directly. His words struck a chord with the participants, evoking a sense of hope and optimism for a better future.

After 2014, when Modi took over as the Prime Minister of the country, he has left no stone unturned to return the love given to him by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister has ensured J&K gets everything which it remained deprived of for the 70 long years. 

Pertinently, during his recent visit to Jammu, PM Modi Inaugurated developmental projects worth Rs 3200 crore and in Srinagar he inaugurated developmental projects worth Rs 6400 crore. 

There was a time when developmental schemes were implemented in the rest of the country but not in J&K but during PM Modi’s tenure time has taken a new turn. During his Srinagar visit PM Modi inaugurated schemes for the rest of the country from Kashmir. During the past five years one thing has proven beyond doubt that the Article 370 always benefited a few selected politicians and families and not the common people. After the revocation of Article 370, peoples’ dreams are getting fulfilled and new opportunities are knocking on their doors. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Srinagar rally served as a gesture of unity and solidarity, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and communities under the banner of development and progress. It showcased the resilience and spirit of the Kashmiri people, who despite facing numerous challenges, remained steadfast in their commitment to building a brighter tomorrow.

PM Modi’s rally marked a significant milestone in the journey towards peace, prosperity, and development in Jammu and Kashmir. 

His decision to address the rally without political intermediaries and to interact directly with the people underscored a new era of governance characterized by transparency, inclusivity, and grassroots engagement. 

As the region continues on its path towards progress, PM Modi’s vision and leadership is undoubtedly playing a pivotal role in shaping its future trajectory. 

The Prime Minister during his speech reiterated ‘Modiki guarantee’ and assured the people that he is committed to ensure that Dharti Ka Swarg prosperous and flourishes in days to come.

Views expressed in the article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer

Article Source: https://kashmirobserver.net/2024/03/08/modis-one-on-one-with-kashmir/