It is a matter of perspective
Dr Shabir Choudhry 12 June 2009
Good thing about pluralistic society is that there is more toleration and acceptance of divergent views. People are not called traitors, castigated, imprisoned or killed just because they have expressed a view which is disliked by the dominant group in the society. Endeavour is made to accommodate different views; and people are allowed to exercise their right of expression.
I frequently write on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, terrorism and politics of South Asia. I have noticed that some Pakistani writers express their opinions on ‘Kashmiri Jihad’ and its sponsors more strongly than I do; and yet they get away with that and I face a barrage of criticism, accusing me of all sorts of things. Some even don’t hesitate to criticise my family which only shows their class and upbringing.
My last article was about the incident of Shopian, titled: ‘Another own goal’. Some emails I got in response of this praised me; and others depicted me as an evil person. Both views cannot be correct. So it is a matter of perspective and how one is viewing the events. Generally our thinking and opinions are shaped by the upbringing and experience we go through; and a person who has lived all his life in Kashmir or in a village in Pakistani Administered Kashmir is bound to have different perspective on matters with someone who has lived in democratic, liberal and progressive societies of Europe.
Criticism of some fake people with a personal agenda is largely ignored by people, but what hurts many is lack of tolerance and understanding of educated people. Unfortunately they have also developed this phenomenon that if you don’t openly agree with them or appreciate their views you are not ‘sincere’ and ‘loyal to the struggle’. In reply to these people in my previous article I said I don’t need ‘their certificate’; and I still stand by it.
My latest article has also attracted some sharp criticism. Some frustrated people, as usual, have made personal attacks. Some genuine people have directed their wisdom and experience in jurisprudence, history and law by demonstrating their knowledge and point scoring skills. Most of the points they were referring to were not ‘justified’ in the article, or even discussed, so it appears they were endeavouring to get their message across to some ‘others’. Anyhow despite the ‘spin’ in these arguments, I feel much ‘wiser’ after reading these comments; and I am sure others have also benefited from this.
Dr Nazir Gilani has made an interesting point that in law the Indian army in Kashmir is not ‘an occupying force’. He is very skilful writer and knows his subject well; and there is no limit to his wisdom and analytical ability. He is entitled to express his opinion and defend it. Others have a right to accept it, remain silent or challenge it. Question, however, is if the Indian army, using Dr Nazir Gilani’s phrase, is not ‘an occupying force’ then logically it is a ‘legal force’. If that is so, then what is the problem? Why people of Kashmir are complaining and protesting?
I don’t know how many takers there will be for this argument in Jammu and Kashmir, and especially on the Indian side of the LOC. Also I don’t know how many people will direct their wisdom and experience to elaborate this point to the satisfaction of those who have serious grievances.
It is totally wrong assumption that I am ‘provoked’ to write by telephone calls or by emails. Everyday I receive many telephone calls and emails on topic of Kashmir and terrorism and peace in South Asia. I don’t write an article on every email or telephone call. I select my topics carefully. My topics deal with current issues – issues which are related to real people; and aim always is to inform, educate and generate discussion. But when people have no logical argument to oppose or defend an argument they resort to foul language and personal attacks.
Apart from my critics, the article, ‘Another own goal’ was also read by many other people, among them was Mohammad Ishaq Khan, President UKPNP, Belgium branch. His view is different to those who have daggers in their hands. With his permission I am producing the letter, which is as follows:
Dear Doctor Sahib, Regards
‘Sir I regularly see your posts on Kashnet and on Kashmirmail. I find your mails quite informative and well prepared which provide a great material on Kashmir issue. I also see the people who criticize your views, which is also a good sign. But I see some people who do not see if you are right or wrong just criticize you in a very poor and stupid way. Their purpose of course is to differ even if you write a verse of the Holy Koran, believe me. I know you are a committed nationalist and a learned person. I never saw any negative sign in your mail but some morally very low level people use very dirty and bad language on kashnet against you. I do not know what their purpose is but I do understand that they have nothing to do with movement for freedom. So the purpose of my this email to you is to ensure you that where there is a tiny group of people using bad language against you, there are many more who respect you and want to see your mails and articles. And the second purpose of this mail is to request you not to answer those people who have no sense…….’
Yours sincerely
Mohammad Ishaq Khan, President UKPNP, Belgium
I had other emails appreciating this article, but I chose to use this email for four reasons: He is a Kashmiri nationalist. He is a known person and is the President in Belgium of a well known nationalist political party. And above all he is not a fake man, and lives in a pluralistic society. If I had used any other person’s email, not known in political circles then critics would have sprung in to action, and would have called him fake.
If I remain quiet I am criticised. If I condemn the Shopian incident – rape and murder, and demand full investigation and punishment, I am criticised. If I oppose and expose opportunists and selfish Kashmiri leaders, I am criticised. If I draw comparison between two occupying countries and try to explain that depending on situation both forces of occupation could brutally crush us, I am criticised.
Mohammed Ishaq Khan has accurately put it: Even if I write a verse of Koran they will criticise that as well. It looks when I write, intentionally or inadvertently I touch some ‘raw’ nerves or tender nerves; and people get disturbed. The ‘task’ of some people is to criticise me no matter what I write. They remain silent and as soon as I write something they are ‘activated’. Their ‘job’ is to insult me and oppose me hoping that I will be demoralised and give up my struggle. They are totally wrong. It strengthens my resolve and makes me think that I must be doing something right that so many people are ‘activated’.
Some critics say my writings demoralise people. I have failed to understand this logic. I have condemned rape and murder in Shopian, how can that demoralise anyone? I have demanded investigation and punishment for the culprits, and how can that demoralise anyone? I have criticised corrupt and selfish leaders and how could that demoralise anyone? Only cronies and blind followers of those corrupt leaders and their handlers could be could be demoralised by this; and every true citizen of Jammu and Kashmir should do everything in their power to demoralise them.
Apart from that if a person shoots another person on head at point blank; and a third person says the victim is expected to die. How could anyone with common sense call this ‘justifying’ the shooting?
What I said was that all forces of occupation commit crimes like this; it does not mean that I justify them. In fact, in the same article I wrote: ‘Kashmir, especially the Valley has been unfortunate in this context where tens of thousands of people have lost their lives and people are imprisoned, killed in torture cells and women suffered rapes and humiliation. I and many other people including human rights activists condemn all this; and demand that the culprits must be punished for these crimes’.
I have no issue with the state of Pakistan, but I have very strong issue with their Kashmir policy, as it affects me and other people of Jammu and Kashmir State. But I have no interest in defending interests of India or Pakistan; however it looks some people are distressed when some disturbing facts are presented about Pakistan.
We come from different social, political, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, and it is natural that we differ on issues; but while defending or promoting an argument we must respect each other. I don’t expect every one to agree with me, but I expect some to understand my point of view.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Friday, 12 June 2009
Monday, 8 June 2009
Another own goal
Another own goal
Dr Shabir Choudhry 08 June 2009
A friend phoned me and asked me about this tragic incident in Shopian where two innocent girls were allegedly raped and killed. ‘It was tragic and blatant abuse of human rights’, I said to him.
He said, “If you really think it was human rights abuse and you condemn it then why have you not written against it?” I told him no one can say it was not human rights abuse; and every person with conscience will condemn that; but do we need to write an article on every rape and every murder which takes place?
Tragic is the incident of Shopian – it must be very agonising for the relatives and friends of the families concerned, but is it not true that in most Third World countries- and even in so called advanced and civilised countries - human rights abuse, rapes and murders are common. Does that mean one has to write an article to demonstrate that he/she condemns it?
Kashmir, especially the Valley has been unfortunate in this context where tens of thousands of people have lost their lives and people are imprisoned, killed in torture cells and women suffered rapes and humiliation. I and many other people including human rights activists condemn all this; and demand that the culprits must be punished for these crimes.
While no one can justify rape and murder, but at the same time we have to ask ourselves why all this is taking place. Did Indian forces burst in to houses of civilians in Kashmir, killed people, harassed them, torture them and raped women before 1988/9. Or all this started when we Kashmiris agreed to wage a ‘proxy war’ - in name of Jihad and freedom struggle on behalf of Islamabad that they can settle an old score with their arch foe India.
Now even in view of Islamabad that struggle or jihad is ‘terrorism’; but at that time both parties were happy with the arrangements: we Kashmiris agreed to get gun from ISI, get their training, take their money and other rewards and shot at the targets selected by them. Pakistani agencies were happy to provide all the above and more that India could be taught a lesson. By doing this did we people of Jammu and Kashmir expected that India will award us with bravery medals and welcome us with flowers?
India reacted to this just like any other power of occupation does, and we people of the State suffered immensely because of this. No doubt people of the Valley suffered more than others, and we all feel for that, but is it not true that the Kashmiri leadership also has to share the blame for suffering and misery of the people. The leadership failed to lead, because they were not leaders rather most of them were ‘proxies’; and were on pay role of agencies and lacked vision and clarity.
This is not to mitigate the offences or crimes committed in Kashmir, but the fact is that all forces of occupation commit human rights abuse. Even those countries who claim to be champions of human rights and call themselves civilized nations are culprits in this regard; and one only has to see what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan to judge their lofty claims. But they are clever and have developed a sophisticated system to influence people; and even when they kill thousands of innocent people, with help of their powerful media it is presented as a service to humanity, democracy and justice.
What India has done in Kashmir cannot be justified, and I will be the last person to justify that; but as a thinking person who has ability to analyse and make comparisons, I can visualise how Pakistan would have reacted if people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir or people of Gilgit and Baltistan had borrowed guns from India and waged a war against a Pakistani rule.
One only has to see what is going on in Swat, various parts of FATA and Balochistan, where helicopter gunships, jet fighters, heavy guns, tanks and commandoes are in action to kill Pakistanis and Muslims. More than 3 million people are made homeless and they are suffering in camps in this heat with enormous problems, and with very little support form the authorities. Some displaced people complain that they have been uprooted for the past 5 weeks and still there is no help from the government.
The Pakistani government and the army reacted in the same manner in 1970/1, when people of East Pakistan asked for their democratic rights. It is claimed that millions of people were made homeless, thousands women were raped and around three million lost their lives.
In Swat majority of people were not against Pakistan, and yet they suffered this ordeal. It is claimed by the displaced people that more people have lost their lives because of the army shelling and aerial bombardment than at hands of the Taliban. People had no choice but to flee for their lives and leave everything behind.
In the Kashmir Valley on the other hand majority of the people were against the Indian rule, and during 1990/1 it looked as India had lost. The system of government had totally collapsed, with militants calling the shots. Yet I could not remember Indian army or para military forces using jet fighters, helicopter gunships, heavy artillery, and tanks etc. Yes they were brutal. They killed, they tortured, there were custodial deaths and there were rapes; and none of that could be justified.
But if past history of Pakistan army, and present on going war and tragedy is anything to go by, then Pakistani army and agencies would have been no better. If they can do that to their own Pakistani Muslims, what will they do to us Kashmiris who are not part of Pakistan and who DONOT want to be part of Pakistan?
It is alleged that culprits in the Shopian tragedy are members of CRPF who have bases in the area, but there is no conclusive evidence to assert this claim. This tragic incident has once again demonstrated that human rights abuse still goes on there, and that people of the Valley are still angry. Despite the large turn out in the recent elections (which was to exercise their democratic right and elect their Assembly Members that they can help them in every day problems), the people of the Valley do not hesitate to express their resentment against New Delhi.
People of Kashmir have expressed their anger against this tragic incident. The government promised to take strong and quick action against the culprits, but there hasn’t been any visible progress on this matter which is fuelling public anger.
All parties connected to the Kashmir dispute have scored own goals. The Kashmiri leadership from 1947 to date have many own goals to their credit. The Government of India have many times scored own goals; and it looks that from time to time they score own goals. The last own goal was related to Amar Nath Cave and the land transfer issue. The Shopian incident, tragic as it is, has strengthened the defunct APHC, and it is viewed by some as another own goal by New Delhi.
It is not clear whether these own goals are scored by accidents and negligence or they are scored to provide new lease of life to the defunct APHC and its leadership which is generally out of step with demands of the independence struggle and geo political situation of the area.
Whoever is the culprit in this tragedy must be found and punished. The government of India is accustomed to scoring own goals and get away with the consequences. The government of Omar Abdullah is new and people have many hopes from it as well; but if it fails to investigate and punish the culprits then it will be an own goal, which could prove very costly.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email:drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Dr Shabir Choudhry 08 June 2009
A friend phoned me and asked me about this tragic incident in Shopian where two innocent girls were allegedly raped and killed. ‘It was tragic and blatant abuse of human rights’, I said to him.
He said, “If you really think it was human rights abuse and you condemn it then why have you not written against it?” I told him no one can say it was not human rights abuse; and every person with conscience will condemn that; but do we need to write an article on every rape and every murder which takes place?
Tragic is the incident of Shopian – it must be very agonising for the relatives and friends of the families concerned, but is it not true that in most Third World countries- and even in so called advanced and civilised countries - human rights abuse, rapes and murders are common. Does that mean one has to write an article to demonstrate that he/she condemns it?
Kashmir, especially the Valley has been unfortunate in this context where tens of thousands of people have lost their lives and people are imprisoned, killed in torture cells and women suffered rapes and humiliation. I and many other people including human rights activists condemn all this; and demand that the culprits must be punished for these crimes.
While no one can justify rape and murder, but at the same time we have to ask ourselves why all this is taking place. Did Indian forces burst in to houses of civilians in Kashmir, killed people, harassed them, torture them and raped women before 1988/9. Or all this started when we Kashmiris agreed to wage a ‘proxy war’ - in name of Jihad and freedom struggle on behalf of Islamabad that they can settle an old score with their arch foe India.
Now even in view of Islamabad that struggle or jihad is ‘terrorism’; but at that time both parties were happy with the arrangements: we Kashmiris agreed to get gun from ISI, get their training, take their money and other rewards and shot at the targets selected by them. Pakistani agencies were happy to provide all the above and more that India could be taught a lesson. By doing this did we people of Jammu and Kashmir expected that India will award us with bravery medals and welcome us with flowers?
India reacted to this just like any other power of occupation does, and we people of the State suffered immensely because of this. No doubt people of the Valley suffered more than others, and we all feel for that, but is it not true that the Kashmiri leadership also has to share the blame for suffering and misery of the people. The leadership failed to lead, because they were not leaders rather most of them were ‘proxies’; and were on pay role of agencies and lacked vision and clarity.
This is not to mitigate the offences or crimes committed in Kashmir, but the fact is that all forces of occupation commit human rights abuse. Even those countries who claim to be champions of human rights and call themselves civilized nations are culprits in this regard; and one only has to see what happened in Iraq and Afghanistan to judge their lofty claims. But they are clever and have developed a sophisticated system to influence people; and even when they kill thousands of innocent people, with help of their powerful media it is presented as a service to humanity, democracy and justice.
What India has done in Kashmir cannot be justified, and I will be the last person to justify that; but as a thinking person who has ability to analyse and make comparisons, I can visualise how Pakistan would have reacted if people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir or people of Gilgit and Baltistan had borrowed guns from India and waged a war against a Pakistani rule.
One only has to see what is going on in Swat, various parts of FATA and Balochistan, where helicopter gunships, jet fighters, heavy guns, tanks and commandoes are in action to kill Pakistanis and Muslims. More than 3 million people are made homeless and they are suffering in camps in this heat with enormous problems, and with very little support form the authorities. Some displaced people complain that they have been uprooted for the past 5 weeks and still there is no help from the government.
The Pakistani government and the army reacted in the same manner in 1970/1, when people of East Pakistan asked for their democratic rights. It is claimed that millions of people were made homeless, thousands women were raped and around three million lost their lives.
In Swat majority of people were not against Pakistan, and yet they suffered this ordeal. It is claimed by the displaced people that more people have lost their lives because of the army shelling and aerial bombardment than at hands of the Taliban. People had no choice but to flee for their lives and leave everything behind.
In the Kashmir Valley on the other hand majority of the people were against the Indian rule, and during 1990/1 it looked as India had lost. The system of government had totally collapsed, with militants calling the shots. Yet I could not remember Indian army or para military forces using jet fighters, helicopter gunships, heavy artillery, and tanks etc. Yes they were brutal. They killed, they tortured, there were custodial deaths and there were rapes; and none of that could be justified.
But if past history of Pakistan army, and present on going war and tragedy is anything to go by, then Pakistani army and agencies would have been no better. If they can do that to their own Pakistani Muslims, what will they do to us Kashmiris who are not part of Pakistan and who DONOT want to be part of Pakistan?
It is alleged that culprits in the Shopian tragedy are members of CRPF who have bases in the area, but there is no conclusive evidence to assert this claim. This tragic incident has once again demonstrated that human rights abuse still goes on there, and that people of the Valley are still angry. Despite the large turn out in the recent elections (which was to exercise their democratic right and elect their Assembly Members that they can help them in every day problems), the people of the Valley do not hesitate to express their resentment against New Delhi.
People of Kashmir have expressed their anger against this tragic incident. The government promised to take strong and quick action against the culprits, but there hasn’t been any visible progress on this matter which is fuelling public anger.
All parties connected to the Kashmir dispute have scored own goals. The Kashmiri leadership from 1947 to date have many own goals to their credit. The Government of India have many times scored own goals; and it looks that from time to time they score own goals. The last own goal was related to Amar Nath Cave and the land transfer issue. The Shopian incident, tragic as it is, has strengthened the defunct APHC, and it is viewed by some as another own goal by New Delhi.
It is not clear whether these own goals are scored by accidents and negligence or they are scored to provide new lease of life to the defunct APHC and its leadership which is generally out of step with demands of the independence struggle and geo political situation of the area.
Whoever is the culprit in this tragedy must be found and punished. The government of India is accustomed to scoring own goals and get away with the consequences. The government of Omar Abdullah is new and people have many hopes from it as well; but if it fails to investigate and punish the culprits then it will be an own goal, which could prove very costly.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email:drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Sunday, 31 May 2009
Thank you, I don’t need this certificate
Thank you, I don’t need this certificate
Dr Shabir Choudhry 31 May 2009
We people of Jammu and Kashmir are occupied because we are divided; and are not sure what we want as a nation. To make matters worse we are led by a bunch of people presented to us as leaders who are selfish and egocentric, and who clearly lack vision, sincerity and sense of direction. Moreover they are more eager to promote agendas of New Delhi and Islamabad rather than protecting rights and interests of people of Jammu and Kashmir.
A policy was initiated to persuade people that areas under Pakistan were Azad - meaning independent and problem was only on the Indian side of the divide. This policy was instigated by the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs of Pakistan and their agencies, and launched with help of their political proxies known as Kashmiri leaders.
Plight of People of Pakistani Administered Kashmir and Gilgit and Baltistan and their basic human rights were swept aside and they were persuaded, rather pressurised to support the ‘struggle’ on the other side and speak against India. It is fact that people of that side had more rights and better facilities than we can even imagine on this side of the divide.
Test of one’s sincerity was how strongly or eloquently one can yell against lack of rights on the Indian side and Indian atrocities. And how sincerely, explicitly and vigorously one can support and commend Pakistan’s role in the areas under Pakistani control and in war of ‘liberation’. If one could pass this test, he/ she was presented as a true leader of people of Kashmir and appropriately rewarded.
Unfortunately leaders of the nationalist movement or independence movement were also cultivated to pursue the same policy. People who had enacted this policy and fine - tuned it according to new situation had to persuade top leaders of nationalist groups, and it was left to them to handle matters within their parties. Any member or a leader who refused to follow this line of action or questioned a rationale of this policy was either sidelined or declared ‘anti movement’, ‘anti organisation’ or ‘agent’ of agencies and expelled from the party.
This policy worked for both the agencies and the top leadership of nationalist groups, who used this ‘guillotine’ frequently and mercilessly to advance their political interest and to please their paymasters. Pakistani planners were pleased that they have managed to trap Indian army in a quagmire of Kashmir; and propagate against Indian rule, actions against militancy, which included extra judicial arrests and custodial killings of innocent people.
Anyone who dared to speak for rights of people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir or draw attention to the plight of people of Gilgit and Baltistan were cautioned not to do so, as it would ‘divert attention’ from the Indian side to the Pakistani side of the divide. Many political aspirants and cautious people decided to follow this dictation and did not risk to be called ‘anti jihad’, ‘anti movement’, ‘anti organisation’ or ‘pro India’. They decided to remain quiet even though they knew what their leaders were doing in their name or in name of the party was wrong.
However many rebels and sincere people decided to challenge this doctrine and paid political and social price, as powerful forces and their proxies initiated consistent campaign to sideline and discredit people like me and many others. It is a stigma to be called an ‘Indian agent’, ‘anti movement’ or ‘anti Pakistan’ in a society whose values are determined by those who occupy us. People would go to any lengths to avoid this label and this pressure was even felt in European capitals where people like Shaukat Kashmiri, Mumtaz Khan, Afzal Tahir, Abbas Butt, Hamid Khan, Dr Nazir Gilani and of course me (Dr Shabir Choudhry) were opposing wrong policies and promoting pro people of Jammu and Kashmir agenda.
In spite of the problems and uphill struggle we sincerely continued with anti terrorism and pro people policies and fought back with vigour and determination. Even with a lot of awareness and available knowledge as soon as something appear in any media or any internet platform, which is construed as an attempt to ‘divert attention’, a systematic campaign is unleashed against that person. Even those people who do not understand basic requirements of the independence movement or fundamental character of the Kashmiri struggle start issuing edicts.
These stalwarts still want us to speak against India and focus our attention on the situation of the Valley only. No doubt India has done a lot of wrong things in Jammu and Kashmir, including human rights violations, and I condemn that. Also the Valley of Kashmir has its own importance, but there is life beyond the boundaries of the Valley; and the people who live outside the boundaries of the Valley also have some genuine problems which need to be addressed.
Situation has been created that if you write something or make a speech and not mention the Valley or not condemn India even when the topic is about upraising of Mangla Dam ( in Pakistani Administered Kashmir) or construction of Basha Dam (in Gilgit and Baltistan), you are perceived as not sincere with the cause of Kashmir.
Worried people or political aspirants don’t want to annoy the crocodile while they still have to share the same water, are desperately making efforts to be in good books of agencies or their proxies. Some are even prepared to attack and malign their fellow colleagues or fellow nationalists in order to win favour and rewards.
Kashnet whether we like it or not links people of Jammu and Kashmir; and at times it also provides valuable information. Nearly all political activists and many non Kashmiris are members of this platform. Apart from sharing information this platform is increasingly used to discredit genuine political activists and leaders by those who have made no contribution to the cause in any form or manner; or by proxies of those who have made fortune of miseries and sufferings of the people. There are nearly 1100 members which include some fake IDs as well; and many people use these fake IDs to settle personal goals against each other.
Whenever something is written or spoken about the plight of people on Pakistani side of the LOC, these proxies are activated to discredit the writer for the crime of ‘diverting attention’ away from the Valley and for not swearing at India. Apart from some dedicated people most political activists choose to remain quiet, and let few be cursed and condemned.
One writer spoke about the situation in Pakistani Administered Kashmir in following words: ‘Corruption practices, nepotism, favouritism, blackmailing, mismanagement, injustices, misuse of authority, violation of merit, discrimination govern so called Azad Kashmir’. When the situation is so bad and people suffer as a result of bad polices and exploitation of Kashmiri resources, I for one cannot remain quiet. Call me whatever suits you, but I will speak about the plight of the people of Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
I have recently visited the Neelam Valley with KNP delegation. The situation there cannot be explained in words, it is much worse than what we have in the Valley or any other part of the State. I cannot be expected to remain silent on this human tragedy and systematic and consistent exploitation of our resources.
I will write and expose those responsible for this human tragedy. I know I will be criticised for this, but do I care? I don’t need a certificate from anyone that I am sincere to my cause. Actions speak louder than any certificate. I know ‘Jihadi warriors’ and ‘liberal fascists’ who are assigned a task of opposing all those who want to educate people and tell them that we are occupied by more than one country; and that a large scale exploitation of our resources and political and economic strangulation is going on in Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
In the past we have opposed culture of intimidation and fear. We have also opposed proxy politics and proxy war. While supporting a right of expression we need to oppose this culture of proxy politics unleashed on Kashnet with sole aim of discrediting genuine political activists and to discourage those who want to speak for rights of people on this side of the divide.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Dr Shabir Choudhry 31 May 2009
We people of Jammu and Kashmir are occupied because we are divided; and are not sure what we want as a nation. To make matters worse we are led by a bunch of people presented to us as leaders who are selfish and egocentric, and who clearly lack vision, sincerity and sense of direction. Moreover they are more eager to promote agendas of New Delhi and Islamabad rather than protecting rights and interests of people of Jammu and Kashmir.
A policy was initiated to persuade people that areas under Pakistan were Azad - meaning independent and problem was only on the Indian side of the divide. This policy was instigated by the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs of Pakistan and their agencies, and launched with help of their political proxies known as Kashmiri leaders.
Plight of People of Pakistani Administered Kashmir and Gilgit and Baltistan and their basic human rights were swept aside and they were persuaded, rather pressurised to support the ‘struggle’ on the other side and speak against India. It is fact that people of that side had more rights and better facilities than we can even imagine on this side of the divide.
Test of one’s sincerity was how strongly or eloquently one can yell against lack of rights on the Indian side and Indian atrocities. And how sincerely, explicitly and vigorously one can support and commend Pakistan’s role in the areas under Pakistani control and in war of ‘liberation’. If one could pass this test, he/ she was presented as a true leader of people of Kashmir and appropriately rewarded.
Unfortunately leaders of the nationalist movement or independence movement were also cultivated to pursue the same policy. People who had enacted this policy and fine - tuned it according to new situation had to persuade top leaders of nationalist groups, and it was left to them to handle matters within their parties. Any member or a leader who refused to follow this line of action or questioned a rationale of this policy was either sidelined or declared ‘anti movement’, ‘anti organisation’ or ‘agent’ of agencies and expelled from the party.
This policy worked for both the agencies and the top leadership of nationalist groups, who used this ‘guillotine’ frequently and mercilessly to advance their political interest and to please their paymasters. Pakistani planners were pleased that they have managed to trap Indian army in a quagmire of Kashmir; and propagate against Indian rule, actions against militancy, which included extra judicial arrests and custodial killings of innocent people.
Anyone who dared to speak for rights of people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir or draw attention to the plight of people of Gilgit and Baltistan were cautioned not to do so, as it would ‘divert attention’ from the Indian side to the Pakistani side of the divide. Many political aspirants and cautious people decided to follow this dictation and did not risk to be called ‘anti jihad’, ‘anti movement’, ‘anti organisation’ or ‘pro India’. They decided to remain quiet even though they knew what their leaders were doing in their name or in name of the party was wrong.
However many rebels and sincere people decided to challenge this doctrine and paid political and social price, as powerful forces and their proxies initiated consistent campaign to sideline and discredit people like me and many others. It is a stigma to be called an ‘Indian agent’, ‘anti movement’ or ‘anti Pakistan’ in a society whose values are determined by those who occupy us. People would go to any lengths to avoid this label and this pressure was even felt in European capitals where people like Shaukat Kashmiri, Mumtaz Khan, Afzal Tahir, Abbas Butt, Hamid Khan, Dr Nazir Gilani and of course me (Dr Shabir Choudhry) were opposing wrong policies and promoting pro people of Jammu and Kashmir agenda.
In spite of the problems and uphill struggle we sincerely continued with anti terrorism and pro people policies and fought back with vigour and determination. Even with a lot of awareness and available knowledge as soon as something appear in any media or any internet platform, which is construed as an attempt to ‘divert attention’, a systematic campaign is unleashed against that person. Even those people who do not understand basic requirements of the independence movement or fundamental character of the Kashmiri struggle start issuing edicts.
These stalwarts still want us to speak against India and focus our attention on the situation of the Valley only. No doubt India has done a lot of wrong things in Jammu and Kashmir, including human rights violations, and I condemn that. Also the Valley of Kashmir has its own importance, but there is life beyond the boundaries of the Valley; and the people who live outside the boundaries of the Valley also have some genuine problems which need to be addressed.
Situation has been created that if you write something or make a speech and not mention the Valley or not condemn India even when the topic is about upraising of Mangla Dam ( in Pakistani Administered Kashmir) or construction of Basha Dam (in Gilgit and Baltistan), you are perceived as not sincere with the cause of Kashmir.
Worried people or political aspirants don’t want to annoy the crocodile while they still have to share the same water, are desperately making efforts to be in good books of agencies or their proxies. Some are even prepared to attack and malign their fellow colleagues or fellow nationalists in order to win favour and rewards.
Kashnet whether we like it or not links people of Jammu and Kashmir; and at times it also provides valuable information. Nearly all political activists and many non Kashmiris are members of this platform. Apart from sharing information this platform is increasingly used to discredit genuine political activists and leaders by those who have made no contribution to the cause in any form or manner; or by proxies of those who have made fortune of miseries and sufferings of the people. There are nearly 1100 members which include some fake IDs as well; and many people use these fake IDs to settle personal goals against each other.
Whenever something is written or spoken about the plight of people on Pakistani side of the LOC, these proxies are activated to discredit the writer for the crime of ‘diverting attention’ away from the Valley and for not swearing at India. Apart from some dedicated people most political activists choose to remain quiet, and let few be cursed and condemned.
One writer spoke about the situation in Pakistani Administered Kashmir in following words: ‘Corruption practices, nepotism, favouritism, blackmailing, mismanagement, injustices, misuse of authority, violation of merit, discrimination govern so called Azad Kashmir’. When the situation is so bad and people suffer as a result of bad polices and exploitation of Kashmiri resources, I for one cannot remain quiet. Call me whatever suits you, but I will speak about the plight of the people of Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
I have recently visited the Neelam Valley with KNP delegation. The situation there cannot be explained in words, it is much worse than what we have in the Valley or any other part of the State. I cannot be expected to remain silent on this human tragedy and systematic and consistent exploitation of our resources.
I will write and expose those responsible for this human tragedy. I know I will be criticised for this, but do I care? I don’t need a certificate from anyone that I am sincere to my cause. Actions speak louder than any certificate. I know ‘Jihadi warriors’ and ‘liberal fascists’ who are assigned a task of opposing all those who want to educate people and tell them that we are occupied by more than one country; and that a large scale exploitation of our resources and political and economic strangulation is going on in Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
In the past we have opposed culture of intimidation and fear. We have also opposed proxy politics and proxy war. While supporting a right of expression we need to oppose this culture of proxy politics unleashed on Kashnet with sole aim of discrediting genuine political activists and to discourage those who want to speak for rights of people on this side of the divide.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Monday, 25 May 2009
Why we formed Kashmir National Party
Why we formed Kashmir National Party
Dr Shabir Choudhry 25 May 2009
Since the formation of KNP last year - May 2008, people have asked many times why we have formed a new party and why we did not join one of the existing pro independence parties. I have replied to this question many times.
Rashid Khan Sahib wrote: ‘below mentioned article did not carry any serious matter to discuss’; and yet went on to analyse the entire article by taking out things out of context. He further wrote: ‘I would like to know, though it is not necessary to know, that while there were so many pure nationalists parties were already existing, with same manifestos, programmes and objectives with little difference, then what was the need to form a new party in the name of KNP?’
Respected Rashid Sahib ‘if there was no serious matter in the article to discuss’, then why you took the trouble to discuss it. Anyhow your question with regard to formation of KNP is a genuine one, and I will try to answer this once again, and hope that it will help you and others to understand the matter in hand.
We were among those who helped to set up the JKLF in Birmingham (England) in 1977. We worked hard to protect and promote the JKLF ideology and sincerely hoped that I will help to advance the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir. When we realised that the top JKLF leadership has betrayed the ideology and the movement we sincerely tried to rectify the situation internally, and protect and promote the real ideology of the party.
When we realised that the forces which want to keep the JKLF and the movement divided were more powerful and influential; and that we could not get the JKLF united, we decided to dissolve our faction of the JKLF and set up a new party with a new name- Kashmir National Party. Our reasons to form KNP are as follows:
1. We formed a new party because we sincerely believed that policies of most nationalist parties were not in tune with the present day demands of the Kashmiri struggle. Their policies were designed either in geo political situation of 1980s or in 1990s; and geo political situation of the world has changed. Also politics of Jammu and Kashmir and the struggle has changed; and these changes should reflect in our policies.
2. Because of discriminatory clause, part 7(2) in the ACT 1974, which states: ‘No person or political party in Azad Jammu and Kashmir shall be permitted to propagate against or take part in activities prejudicial or detrimental to the ideology of the State’s accession to Pakistan’, Kashmiri nationalist parties don’t take part in elections? However some Kashmiri nationalists have individually taken part in the elections in Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
3. We were the first political party to write it in our constitution that we will take part in the elections despite this discriminatory clause. KNP aims and objectives states: ‘Without prejudice to our inherent and most cherished right to independence; and despite restrictions upon those who adhere to this ideology, KNP in order to empower people and promote democratic values and culture of accountability and transparency will support democratic process in the divided State and might take part in the electoral process’.
4. We are pleased that NAP as a political party has also decided to take part in the elections despite the discriminatory clause. We can assure the NAP leadership that they will get our full cooperation in this matter; and in every other matter which can advance the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir.
5. Many nationalist parties of Pakistani administered Kashmir still want to liberate ‘Indian held’ Kashmir first; and regard ‘Pakistani Occupied Kashmir’ as Azad Kashmir. Some even say that once Kashmir is liberated from India then we can speak to Pakistan, knowing that it will not happen till doomsday. They fail to distinguish between two different kinds of occupations; as a result their strategy to liberate our homeland is contradictory and confused. One can even say their policy and strategy is discriminatory in nature, as deep down in their hearts they see the struggle in the context of Muslims and non Muslims.
6. Our policy is crystal clear on this. We believe a person who is enslaved himself in one room cannot ‘liberate’ his brothers who are enslaved in the other room. In order to help them I need to be free myself first. I need to struggle against my slavery according to situation where I am enslaved and suffering; and my fellow countrymen can struggle according their conditions where they are enslaved and suffering. We can help, support and coordinate our struggle, but cannot abandon struggle for our liberation until the rest of the Jammu and Kashmir is liberated from India.
7. Some nationalist parties in order to be in ‘good books’ of certain quarters oppose and condemn terrorism, but not only justify militancy and violence on the Indian side of the LOC but also promote it. These nationalist parties also oppose armed struggle inside Pakistani Administered Kashmir. KNP on the other hand oppose terrorism in its all manifestations and wherever it takes place. We are not among those who wrap violence in holy cover of jihad when it takes place on the Indian side of the LOC and call it terrorism when it takes place in Pakistan.
8. We believe people of State of Jammu and Kashmir cannot get unification and independence by use of gun. Use of gun whether it was in the form of Tribal invasion in 1947, Pakistani led war in 1965, or in the form of jihad, militancy or a proxy war (1988 to date) has only resulted in misery and suffering of the people. We have not made any progress towards goal of our most cherished goal of independence. We therefore feel that struggle now has to be political and democratic. We need to give chance to genuine peace process and dialogue among all the Kashmiri ethnic groups and India and Pakistan.
9. Some Kashmiri nationalist organisations use name of secularism and yet they are actively engaged in politics of communalism and they promote politics based on religion. KNP on the other hand genuinely believes that religion has no role in politics. Jammu and Kashmir is multi religious and multi ethnic State and we cannot let religious forces to divide our beloved homeland. KNP strongly believes that majority ethnic group – Muslims have to win trust of the minorities by going extra mile and take concrete steps to promote and protect rights of Kashmiri minorities.
10. KNP gives great importance to working with trade unions and other progressive forces in the country; and will promote role of working class people and underprivileged classes. KNP believes corruption, nepotism, deiscrimination and regionalism are poisionous for society, as they destroy peace, harmony and cohesiveness of the society, we therefore, will have zero tolerance to all these evils. We will root out racial, communal, regional, linguistic and class prejudices; and promote unity, friendship and equality amongst all people of the State.
11. Apart from that some nationalist parties want to establish a communalist society in Jammu and Kashmir – a society which has strong traditional, cultural and religious roots. We believe communism might not be suitable for the society of Jammu and Kashmir.
In our opinion no existing Kashmiri nationalist party offered us all the above and we had no choice but to make a new start with a new name. I hope that respected Rashid Khan and others will have better understanding of KNP now.
Also I hope that those who preach us to ‘accept’ decisions of their parties will at least respect decisions of our party - KNP. We don’t expect them to accept our decisions, as only party members are expected to accept them. Others have a right to criticise, comment or reject our decisions and we have to tolerate that, as this essence of democracy.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Dr Shabir Choudhry 25 May 2009
Since the formation of KNP last year - May 2008, people have asked many times why we have formed a new party and why we did not join one of the existing pro independence parties. I have replied to this question many times.
Rashid Khan Sahib wrote: ‘below mentioned article did not carry any serious matter to discuss’; and yet went on to analyse the entire article by taking out things out of context. He further wrote: ‘I would like to know, though it is not necessary to know, that while there were so many pure nationalists parties were already existing, with same manifestos, programmes and objectives with little difference, then what was the need to form a new party in the name of KNP?’
Respected Rashid Sahib ‘if there was no serious matter in the article to discuss’, then why you took the trouble to discuss it. Anyhow your question with regard to formation of KNP is a genuine one, and I will try to answer this once again, and hope that it will help you and others to understand the matter in hand.
We were among those who helped to set up the JKLF in Birmingham (England) in 1977. We worked hard to protect and promote the JKLF ideology and sincerely hoped that I will help to advance the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir. When we realised that the top JKLF leadership has betrayed the ideology and the movement we sincerely tried to rectify the situation internally, and protect and promote the real ideology of the party.
When we realised that the forces which want to keep the JKLF and the movement divided were more powerful and influential; and that we could not get the JKLF united, we decided to dissolve our faction of the JKLF and set up a new party with a new name- Kashmir National Party. Our reasons to form KNP are as follows:
1. We formed a new party because we sincerely believed that policies of most nationalist parties were not in tune with the present day demands of the Kashmiri struggle. Their policies were designed either in geo political situation of 1980s or in 1990s; and geo political situation of the world has changed. Also politics of Jammu and Kashmir and the struggle has changed; and these changes should reflect in our policies.
2. Because of discriminatory clause, part 7(2) in the ACT 1974, which states: ‘No person or political party in Azad Jammu and Kashmir shall be permitted to propagate against or take part in activities prejudicial or detrimental to the ideology of the State’s accession to Pakistan’, Kashmiri nationalist parties don’t take part in elections? However some Kashmiri nationalists have individually taken part in the elections in Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
3. We were the first political party to write it in our constitution that we will take part in the elections despite this discriminatory clause. KNP aims and objectives states: ‘Without prejudice to our inherent and most cherished right to independence; and despite restrictions upon those who adhere to this ideology, KNP in order to empower people and promote democratic values and culture of accountability and transparency will support democratic process in the divided State and might take part in the electoral process’.
4. We are pleased that NAP as a political party has also decided to take part in the elections despite the discriminatory clause. We can assure the NAP leadership that they will get our full cooperation in this matter; and in every other matter which can advance the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir.
5. Many nationalist parties of Pakistani administered Kashmir still want to liberate ‘Indian held’ Kashmir first; and regard ‘Pakistani Occupied Kashmir’ as Azad Kashmir. Some even say that once Kashmir is liberated from India then we can speak to Pakistan, knowing that it will not happen till doomsday. They fail to distinguish between two different kinds of occupations; as a result their strategy to liberate our homeland is contradictory and confused. One can even say their policy and strategy is discriminatory in nature, as deep down in their hearts they see the struggle in the context of Muslims and non Muslims.
6. Our policy is crystal clear on this. We believe a person who is enslaved himself in one room cannot ‘liberate’ his brothers who are enslaved in the other room. In order to help them I need to be free myself first. I need to struggle against my slavery according to situation where I am enslaved and suffering; and my fellow countrymen can struggle according their conditions where they are enslaved and suffering. We can help, support and coordinate our struggle, but cannot abandon struggle for our liberation until the rest of the Jammu and Kashmir is liberated from India.
7. Some nationalist parties in order to be in ‘good books’ of certain quarters oppose and condemn terrorism, but not only justify militancy and violence on the Indian side of the LOC but also promote it. These nationalist parties also oppose armed struggle inside Pakistani Administered Kashmir. KNP on the other hand oppose terrorism in its all manifestations and wherever it takes place. We are not among those who wrap violence in holy cover of jihad when it takes place on the Indian side of the LOC and call it terrorism when it takes place in Pakistan.
8. We believe people of State of Jammu and Kashmir cannot get unification and independence by use of gun. Use of gun whether it was in the form of Tribal invasion in 1947, Pakistani led war in 1965, or in the form of jihad, militancy or a proxy war (1988 to date) has only resulted in misery and suffering of the people. We have not made any progress towards goal of our most cherished goal of independence. We therefore feel that struggle now has to be political and democratic. We need to give chance to genuine peace process and dialogue among all the Kashmiri ethnic groups and India and Pakistan.
9. Some Kashmiri nationalist organisations use name of secularism and yet they are actively engaged in politics of communalism and they promote politics based on religion. KNP on the other hand genuinely believes that religion has no role in politics. Jammu and Kashmir is multi religious and multi ethnic State and we cannot let religious forces to divide our beloved homeland. KNP strongly believes that majority ethnic group – Muslims have to win trust of the minorities by going extra mile and take concrete steps to promote and protect rights of Kashmiri minorities.
10. KNP gives great importance to working with trade unions and other progressive forces in the country; and will promote role of working class people and underprivileged classes. KNP believes corruption, nepotism, deiscrimination and regionalism are poisionous for society, as they destroy peace, harmony and cohesiveness of the society, we therefore, will have zero tolerance to all these evils. We will root out racial, communal, regional, linguistic and class prejudices; and promote unity, friendship and equality amongst all people of the State.
11. Apart from that some nationalist parties want to establish a communalist society in Jammu and Kashmir – a society which has strong traditional, cultural and religious roots. We believe communism might not be suitable for the society of Jammu and Kashmir.
In our opinion no existing Kashmiri nationalist party offered us all the above and we had no choice but to make a new start with a new name. I hope that respected Rashid Khan and others will have better understanding of KNP now.
Also I hope that those who preach us to ‘accept’ decisions of their parties will at least respect decisions of our party - KNP. We don’t expect them to accept our decisions, as only party members are expected to accept them. Others have a right to criticise, comment or reject our decisions and we have to tolerate that, as this essence of democracy.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Wednesday, 20 May 2009
Police oppression continues against lawyers in Muzaffarabad
Police oppression continues against lawyers in Muzaffarabad
20 May 2009
Kashmir National Party Spokesman Dr Shabir Choudhry strongly condemned police action against unarmed civilians, lawyers and journalists in Muzaffarabad which continued today, despite widespread anger and resentment against the authorities.
According to confirmed reports, police atrocities against unarmed civilians continued in Muzaffarabad today. Yesterday local police demonstrated their power when they charged against peaceful demonstration which was organised by the lawyers and supported by the civil society of Muzaffarabad.
The demonstration was held against officials of Muzaffarabad Development Authority who went out of their way to assert their power and illegally demolished houses belonging to citizens. On orders of the authorities the police used batons and brutally beat up lawyers and members of the civil society, for the ‘crime’ of holding a peaceful demonstration in which dozens of lawyers suffered injuries, and some had their arms broken.
According to Abid Kashmiri, a local political activist, there was a widespread anger against the authorities, and members of the civil society arranged a demonstration today in support of lawyers who were brutally beaten up yesterday.
Abid Kashmiri said, ‘the police continued with their oppression against the demonstrators and like yesterday mercilessly beat up unarmed civilians. Today apart from lawyers, journalists were also targeted in the police action’. This heavy handed tactics are strongly criticised by human rights organisation and members of the civil society.
More than hundred policemen attacked the District Courts and beat up lawyers and used foul language. District and Session Judge Syed Khalid Gilani said it was contravention of law and insult to legal system. He said it looks that police is out of control and there is a serious threat to life and honour of citizens. He said appropriate action will be taken against culprits of this action.
Judge Syed Khalid Gilani further said it was this action is condemnable and amounts to state terrorism.
Taking notice of this serious development Prime Minister of Pakistani Administered Kashmir, Sardar Mohammed Yaqub Khan expressed his seriously concern about this police action and human rights violations. He immediately set up a committee under the ‘Home Minister’ Raja Sadeeque and ordered him to submit a report within three days.
Sardar Yaqub Khan said appropriate action will be taken against the culprits and the government will provide protection to lawyers and journalists. He said, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that justice is done and rule of law prevails. END
20 May 2009
Kashmir National Party Spokesman Dr Shabir Choudhry strongly condemned police action against unarmed civilians, lawyers and journalists in Muzaffarabad which continued today, despite widespread anger and resentment against the authorities.
According to confirmed reports, police atrocities against unarmed civilians continued in Muzaffarabad today. Yesterday local police demonstrated their power when they charged against peaceful demonstration which was organised by the lawyers and supported by the civil society of Muzaffarabad.
The demonstration was held against officials of Muzaffarabad Development Authority who went out of their way to assert their power and illegally demolished houses belonging to citizens. On orders of the authorities the police used batons and brutally beat up lawyers and members of the civil society, for the ‘crime’ of holding a peaceful demonstration in which dozens of lawyers suffered injuries, and some had their arms broken.
According to Abid Kashmiri, a local political activist, there was a widespread anger against the authorities, and members of the civil society arranged a demonstration today in support of lawyers who were brutally beaten up yesterday.
Abid Kashmiri said, ‘the police continued with their oppression against the demonstrators and like yesterday mercilessly beat up unarmed civilians. Today apart from lawyers, journalists were also targeted in the police action’. This heavy handed tactics are strongly criticised by human rights organisation and members of the civil society.
More than hundred policemen attacked the District Courts and beat up lawyers and used foul language. District and Session Judge Syed Khalid Gilani said it was contravention of law and insult to legal system. He said it looks that police is out of control and there is a serious threat to life and honour of citizens. He said appropriate action will be taken against culprits of this action.
Judge Syed Khalid Gilani further said it was this action is condemnable and amounts to state terrorism.
Taking notice of this serious development Prime Minister of Pakistani Administered Kashmir, Sardar Mohammed Yaqub Khan expressed his seriously concern about this police action and human rights violations. He immediately set up a committee under the ‘Home Minister’ Raja Sadeeque and ordered him to submit a report within three days.
Sardar Yaqub Khan said appropriate action will be taken against the culprits and the government will provide protection to lawyers and journalists. He said, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that justice is done and rule of law prevails. END
Tuesday, 19 May 2009
Police action against lawyers in Muzaffarabad.
Police action against lawyers in Muzaffarabad.
Dr Shabir Choudhry 19 May 2009
According to reports emanating from Muzaffarabad, there was a serious police action against a peaceful demonstration in Muzaffarbad, capital of Pakistani Administered Kashmir. The city showed scene of a battleground, according to eye witness who was present when the policemen bravely attacked and injured peaceful demonstrators.
The trouble started when lawyers began their demonstration against unjust and unreasonable attitude of authorities in Muzaffarabad. According to Khawaja Abid Kashmiri, a local political activist who witnessed the police charge said, ‘Police in hundreds were waiting for the demonstrators, and as soon as they emerged from the Central Bar building, police charged at them with sticks and started beating unarmed and completely peaceful demonstrators’.
He said, ‘Demonstrators had to take shelter inside the Bar building, but they were chased by the police who generously used tear gas and big sticks to beat the lawyers’. In this ‘jihad’ against lawyers total of 22 lawyers suffered head injuries, and 16 lawyers had their arms broken. Police have ‘won’ the day but there is much anger and resentment among the people of the city.
According to local people some officers of Muzaffarabad Development Authority wanted to misappropriate land that they can sell it at higher rate later on. In this regard one officer named Khawaja Amar Mehmood went to dismantle a shelter of one lawyer Hazoor Imam Qazmi. Mr Qazmi is a lawyer of High Court and Supreme Court. He challenged the action of the MDA officers, but Khawaja Amar Mehmood expressing his arrogance and power demolished parts of his dwelling.
Mr Qazmi obtained a stay order from the court next day, and presented that to Khawaja Amar Mehmood who allegedly ignored the court action and went ahead with his mission of demolishing the remaining parts of Mr Qazmi’s dwelling. Mr Imam Qazmi and his family tried to fight off this illegal action of MDA officers, but had no luck as the officers were well prepared for their action.
According to Abid Kashmiri a twelve year old young daughter of Mr Qazmi also resisted this action and said, ‘Uncle why are you doing this to us. Why are you throwing out our belongings?’ Instead of showing any sympathy or care, MDA officials fiercely pushed her away. She fell down and hurt herself.
In another incident which took place on Neelam Road Muzaffarabd, Raja Ijaz Dilwar’s house was demolished in presence of Assistant Commissioner Muzaffarabad, Abdul Hamid Kayani. And when Raja Ijaz Dilwar protested against this unfair treatment, he was personally beaten up with a stick by the Assistant Commissioner, and Mr Dilwar’s leg was broken during this mission of the authorities.
Because of these actions the local people were very angry and they arranged the demonstration to show their disgust. The authorities were angry over this and ordered police to teach them a lesson. In this police action apart from the lawyers, bystanders were also beaten up. In total twenty two law - abiding advocates had head injuries and sixteen of them had their arms broken.
It is a basic human right to hold a peaceful demonstration, but when a territory is colonised or when it is ruled by undemocratic forces the right to assemble or a right of speech is brutally silenced. How unfortunate that this area is known as Azad Kashmir, but it lacks azadi in true sense.
I wonder why authorities in Muzaffarbad want to create new problems when they already have so many problems on their plate. Still there are thousands of earthquake victims who need to be housed and properly looked after. Apart from that there are many other problems that need their immediate attention, and which are related to welfare and education of people. They are advised to formulate policies for the welfare of the people, rather than uprooting those who have shelter, and beating up those who are there to promote and protect law and rights of the citizens.
According to confirmed reports MDA officer Khawaja Amar Mehmood is a brother of Khawaja Hassan who lives in Belgium, and presents himself as a nationalist Kashmiri. But sources in Belgium claim that the man is acting mysteriously and have practically become a mouth piece of Pakistani funded Kashmir Centre in Brussels.
His main mission is to create divisions among the nationalist Kashmiris. In the past secret agencies of India and Pakistan used to accuse Kashmiri nationalists of being ‘agents’ of either India or Pakistan; now this mission is assigned to Khawaja Hassan, who is working very hard to discharge his duties to divide Kashmiris and make allegations against true Kashmiri nationalists.
It is claimed by political activists in Muzaffarbad that he was also instrumental in withdrawal of National Awami Party from All Party National Alliance, a platform of Kashmiri nationalists. In view of some political activists the move is designed to discredit APNA which has infuriated Islamabad policy makers, as it has strengthened ties between people of Gilgit and Baltistan and people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
This move of new NAP leaders could have far reaching consequences and could split the party. The new President of the NAP, soon after his election declared that his party will no longer be part of the APNA, as he was not happy with certain things in the alliance.
His action whether supported by his Executive Committee or not demonstrates that the previous leadership of NAP was weak and naïve, and he is clever and stronger. It shows that the previous leadership of NAP failed to understand ‘wrong policies’ of the APNA, and he understood them and took action as soon as he was elected.
However sources close to the former President Professor Khaleeque claim that he still regards himself to be part of the APNA set up. I don’t know how that can be possible but it will surely create divisions within the ranks of the party; and Khawaja Hassan should get full credit for the accomplishment of his mission.
APNA is an alliance of Kashmiri nationalist parties. It may not be perfect, and some of its constituent parties or leaders may not be liked by every one, but these small matters could be resolved from inside. APNA is alliance of like minded parties and has agreement of parties on broader issues. The constituent parties, big or small are free to hold their own separate functions and promote their ideologies.
In my view anyone who is trying to weaken APNA or wants to give it a bad name is not helping the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir. It is well known that Amanullah Khan group of JKLF is not part of this alliance as there is a big question mark on his nationalist credentials. He and pro Pakistan parties with whom he associates himself will be happy that APNA is weakened.
However those who are acting as ‘B’ team of Islamabad or working for Kashmir’s accession to Pakistan, they will be happy that they have managed to dent the credibility of this alliance which has worked hard to promote the nationalist cause and bring people of Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir closer.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Dr Shabir Choudhry 19 May 2009
According to reports emanating from Muzaffarabad, there was a serious police action against a peaceful demonstration in Muzaffarbad, capital of Pakistani Administered Kashmir. The city showed scene of a battleground, according to eye witness who was present when the policemen bravely attacked and injured peaceful demonstrators.
The trouble started when lawyers began their demonstration against unjust and unreasonable attitude of authorities in Muzaffarabad. According to Khawaja Abid Kashmiri, a local political activist who witnessed the police charge said, ‘Police in hundreds were waiting for the demonstrators, and as soon as they emerged from the Central Bar building, police charged at them with sticks and started beating unarmed and completely peaceful demonstrators’.
He said, ‘Demonstrators had to take shelter inside the Bar building, but they were chased by the police who generously used tear gas and big sticks to beat the lawyers’. In this ‘jihad’ against lawyers total of 22 lawyers suffered head injuries, and 16 lawyers had their arms broken. Police have ‘won’ the day but there is much anger and resentment among the people of the city.
According to local people some officers of Muzaffarabad Development Authority wanted to misappropriate land that they can sell it at higher rate later on. In this regard one officer named Khawaja Amar Mehmood went to dismantle a shelter of one lawyer Hazoor Imam Qazmi. Mr Qazmi is a lawyer of High Court and Supreme Court. He challenged the action of the MDA officers, but Khawaja Amar Mehmood expressing his arrogance and power demolished parts of his dwelling.
Mr Qazmi obtained a stay order from the court next day, and presented that to Khawaja Amar Mehmood who allegedly ignored the court action and went ahead with his mission of demolishing the remaining parts of Mr Qazmi’s dwelling. Mr Imam Qazmi and his family tried to fight off this illegal action of MDA officers, but had no luck as the officers were well prepared for their action.
According to Abid Kashmiri a twelve year old young daughter of Mr Qazmi also resisted this action and said, ‘Uncle why are you doing this to us. Why are you throwing out our belongings?’ Instead of showing any sympathy or care, MDA officials fiercely pushed her away. She fell down and hurt herself.
In another incident which took place on Neelam Road Muzaffarabd, Raja Ijaz Dilwar’s house was demolished in presence of Assistant Commissioner Muzaffarabad, Abdul Hamid Kayani. And when Raja Ijaz Dilwar protested against this unfair treatment, he was personally beaten up with a stick by the Assistant Commissioner, and Mr Dilwar’s leg was broken during this mission of the authorities.
Because of these actions the local people were very angry and they arranged the demonstration to show their disgust. The authorities were angry over this and ordered police to teach them a lesson. In this police action apart from the lawyers, bystanders were also beaten up. In total twenty two law - abiding advocates had head injuries and sixteen of them had their arms broken.
It is a basic human right to hold a peaceful demonstration, but when a territory is colonised or when it is ruled by undemocratic forces the right to assemble or a right of speech is brutally silenced. How unfortunate that this area is known as Azad Kashmir, but it lacks azadi in true sense.
I wonder why authorities in Muzaffarbad want to create new problems when they already have so many problems on their plate. Still there are thousands of earthquake victims who need to be housed and properly looked after. Apart from that there are many other problems that need their immediate attention, and which are related to welfare and education of people. They are advised to formulate policies for the welfare of the people, rather than uprooting those who have shelter, and beating up those who are there to promote and protect law and rights of the citizens.
According to confirmed reports MDA officer Khawaja Amar Mehmood is a brother of Khawaja Hassan who lives in Belgium, and presents himself as a nationalist Kashmiri. But sources in Belgium claim that the man is acting mysteriously and have practically become a mouth piece of Pakistani funded Kashmir Centre in Brussels.
His main mission is to create divisions among the nationalist Kashmiris. In the past secret agencies of India and Pakistan used to accuse Kashmiri nationalists of being ‘agents’ of either India or Pakistan; now this mission is assigned to Khawaja Hassan, who is working very hard to discharge his duties to divide Kashmiris and make allegations against true Kashmiri nationalists.
It is claimed by political activists in Muzaffarbad that he was also instrumental in withdrawal of National Awami Party from All Party National Alliance, a platform of Kashmiri nationalists. In view of some political activists the move is designed to discredit APNA which has infuriated Islamabad policy makers, as it has strengthened ties between people of Gilgit and Baltistan and people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir.
This move of new NAP leaders could have far reaching consequences and could split the party. The new President of the NAP, soon after his election declared that his party will no longer be part of the APNA, as he was not happy with certain things in the alliance.
His action whether supported by his Executive Committee or not demonstrates that the previous leadership of NAP was weak and naïve, and he is clever and stronger. It shows that the previous leadership of NAP failed to understand ‘wrong policies’ of the APNA, and he understood them and took action as soon as he was elected.
However sources close to the former President Professor Khaleeque claim that he still regards himself to be part of the APNA set up. I don’t know how that can be possible but it will surely create divisions within the ranks of the party; and Khawaja Hassan should get full credit for the accomplishment of his mission.
APNA is an alliance of Kashmiri nationalist parties. It may not be perfect, and some of its constituent parties or leaders may not be liked by every one, but these small matters could be resolved from inside. APNA is alliance of like minded parties and has agreement of parties on broader issues. The constituent parties, big or small are free to hold their own separate functions and promote their ideologies.
In my view anyone who is trying to weaken APNA or wants to give it a bad name is not helping the cause of united and independent Jammu and Kashmir. It is well known that Amanullah Khan group of JKLF is not part of this alliance as there is a big question mark on his nationalist credentials. He and pro Pakistan parties with whom he associates himself will be happy that APNA is weakened.
However those who are acting as ‘B’ team of Islamabad or working for Kashmir’s accession to Pakistan, they will be happy that they have managed to dent the credibility of this alliance which has worked hard to promote the nationalist cause and bring people of Gilgit and Baltistan and Pakistani Administered Kashmir closer.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs. Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Monday, 18 May 2009
A message for Sada E Watan International
A message for Sada E Watan International
Dr Shabir Choudhry 18 May 2009
Friends and colleagues I want to congratulate you on your decision to launch a monthly Sada E Watan International. You want to promote cause of Kashmiri nationalists and invite them to put forward their programmes for unification and independence of Jammu and Kashmir.
I admire your courage and good intentions; but courage and good intentions alone, no matter how sincere they are, cannot make a project successful. To make a new magazine successful, there must be sincere and dedicated team and public support in the form of readership and advertisements. Apart from that publishers must have financial muscle to ensure that the magazine is published regularly and has good system of distribution.
Above criteria is for all types of magazines, but when the magazine plans to promote nationalist view point it becomes more difficult, as the authorities would not look at it too kindly. Apart from that businessmen will also be very reluctant to support the magazine with advertisements because of fear and intimidation and poor distribution and small readership.
In any case businessmen of Pakistani Controlled Kashmir might not be that enthusiastic in supporting a magazine which could make them ‘bad boys’ in eyes of the Pakistani establishment. Most businessmen of Kashmir have only one ideology and that is to make more money and support the status quo or the ruling elite.
There is too much competition in the print media, and there is hardly any space for a new magazine, especially when readership is declining and people get all kinds of news through electronic media. The task of making a new magazine successful becomes more difficult when the magazine wants to promote a policy or ideology which is disliked by the rulers.
Perhaps importance of Media is not fully appreciated by the people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir and Gilgit and Baltistan. There isn’t any Kashmiri media of importance, especially media which can promote a nationalist cause. Whereas people of Gilgit and Baltistan are not rich, people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir are not poor. There are many millionaires among them, and yet no one has invested in media.
We have millions of people from Pakistani Administered Kashmir who live in Britain, America, Europe and Middle East, and some of them are really rich. They like to take part in politics as well but won’t invest in media, instead they are happy to take their press statements to print media abroad mainly owned by Pakistanis.
Some Kashmiris who dared to invest in print or electronic media were not supported by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, even though most viewers/ readers acknowledged that there was need of a Kashmiri media; and that they were providing news which really mattered to them.
In Pakistani Administered Kashmir people generally read Pakistani newspapers, even though some Kashmiri dailies are available. These Pakistani papers are specially printed for Pakistani Administered Kashmir; and news they carry are different from the newspapers which are printed for the Pakistani readers.
In other words when Kashmiri leaders, nationalists or pro Pakistan Kashmiris issue statements or hold press conferences their readership is people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir. These statements and press conferences about Kashmir are not published in the Pakistani papers; as a result of that Pakistani people only know about Kashmir what Pakistani authorities want them to know.
In view of the above scenario you have taken a big decision. This decision demands that you must get a dedicated and sincere team who can promote the cause of this magazine. Also you must set up a system that the magazine is professionally managed - its distribution and marketing is in hands of those who have experience in this field. Moreover there should be sufficient funds available that the magazine is financed until such time that it sustains itself.
In this regard my suggestion is that the owners of the magazine and the editorial board should contact nationalist leadership of all Kashmiri parties and seek some help for the magazine. These leaders, at times, talk big. This is the time to test their strength and dedication to the cause of unification and independence of Jammu and Kashmir.
Also local businessmen, community leaders and NOGs should be contacted for the support and advertisements. I am sure with proper planning, hard work and dedication the Sada e Watan International can survive, and can become voice of the people in true sense.
I wish you all the best and sincerely hope that you people make this magazine a success. In this regard my services will always be available to you.
Dr Shabir Choudhry London, 18 May 2009.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs.
Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com Mob: 0044 (0) 7790 942471
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
Dr Shabir Choudhry 18 May 2009
Friends and colleagues I want to congratulate you on your decision to launch a monthly Sada E Watan International. You want to promote cause of Kashmiri nationalists and invite them to put forward their programmes for unification and independence of Jammu and Kashmir.
I admire your courage and good intentions; but courage and good intentions alone, no matter how sincere they are, cannot make a project successful. To make a new magazine successful, there must be sincere and dedicated team and public support in the form of readership and advertisements. Apart from that publishers must have financial muscle to ensure that the magazine is published regularly and has good system of distribution.
Above criteria is for all types of magazines, but when the magazine plans to promote nationalist view point it becomes more difficult, as the authorities would not look at it too kindly. Apart from that businessmen will also be very reluctant to support the magazine with advertisements because of fear and intimidation and poor distribution and small readership.
In any case businessmen of Pakistani Controlled Kashmir might not be that enthusiastic in supporting a magazine which could make them ‘bad boys’ in eyes of the Pakistani establishment. Most businessmen of Kashmir have only one ideology and that is to make more money and support the status quo or the ruling elite.
There is too much competition in the print media, and there is hardly any space for a new magazine, especially when readership is declining and people get all kinds of news through electronic media. The task of making a new magazine successful becomes more difficult when the magazine wants to promote a policy or ideology which is disliked by the rulers.
Perhaps importance of Media is not fully appreciated by the people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir and Gilgit and Baltistan. There isn’t any Kashmiri media of importance, especially media which can promote a nationalist cause. Whereas people of Gilgit and Baltistan are not rich, people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir are not poor. There are many millionaires among them, and yet no one has invested in media.
We have millions of people from Pakistani Administered Kashmir who live in Britain, America, Europe and Middle East, and some of them are really rich. They like to take part in politics as well but won’t invest in media, instead they are happy to take their press statements to print media abroad mainly owned by Pakistanis.
Some Kashmiris who dared to invest in print or electronic media were not supported by the people of Jammu and Kashmir, even though most viewers/ readers acknowledged that there was need of a Kashmiri media; and that they were providing news which really mattered to them.
In Pakistani Administered Kashmir people generally read Pakistani newspapers, even though some Kashmiri dailies are available. These Pakistani papers are specially printed for Pakistani Administered Kashmir; and news they carry are different from the newspapers which are printed for the Pakistani readers.
In other words when Kashmiri leaders, nationalists or pro Pakistan Kashmiris issue statements or hold press conferences their readership is people of Pakistani Administered Kashmir. These statements and press conferences about Kashmir are not published in the Pakistani papers; as a result of that Pakistani people only know about Kashmir what Pakistani authorities want them to know.
In view of the above scenario you have taken a big decision. This decision demands that you must get a dedicated and sincere team who can promote the cause of this magazine. Also you must set up a system that the magazine is professionally managed - its distribution and marketing is in hands of those who have experience in this field. Moreover there should be sufficient funds available that the magazine is financed until such time that it sustains itself.
In this regard my suggestion is that the owners of the magazine and the editorial board should contact nationalist leadership of all Kashmiri parties and seek some help for the magazine. These leaders, at times, talk big. This is the time to test their strength and dedication to the cause of unification and independence of Jammu and Kashmir.
Also local businessmen, community leaders and NOGs should be contacted for the support and advertisements. I am sure with proper planning, hard work and dedication the Sada e Watan International can survive, and can become voice of the people in true sense.
I wish you all the best and sincerely hope that you people make this magazine a success. In this regard my services will always be available to you.
Dr Shabir Choudhry London, 18 May 2009.
Writer is a Spokesman of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs.
Email: drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com Mob: 0044 (0) 7790 942471
To view other articles see my blog: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com
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