Epilogue Magazine, February 2010

8/7/2019 Epilogue Magazine, February 2010

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C O N T E N T

Vol. 4, Issue 2 Epilogue, February 2010www.epilogue.in

Epiloguebecause there is more to know

Editor

Zafar Iqbal Choudhary

Publisher

Yogesh Pandoh

Consulting Editor

D. Suba Chandran

Associate Editors

Irm Amin Baig

Tsewang Rigzin

General Manager

Kartavya Pandoh

Art Editor

Keshav Sharma

Research Officer

Raman Sharma

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www.epilogue.in

I N FOCUSGovernments Performance Review

23 Omar AbdullahThe Man, Not in HurryOne year - So far, So goodZafar Choudhary

27 FinanceAbdul Rahim Rather

29 Housing & Urban DevelopmentTara Chand

30 Hajj & Auqaf, FisheriesAjaz Ahmed Khan31 Rural Development

Ali Mohammad Sagar

32 TourismNawang Rigzin Jora

34 CooperativesDr Manohar Lal Sharma

34 School EducationPeerzada Mohammad Sayeed

36 CA&PD and TransportQamar Ali Akhoon

37 Roads & BuildingsG.M. Saroori

39 ForestsMian Altaf Ahmed

40 AgricultureGhulam Hassan Mir

41 Higher EducationAbdul Gani Malik

42 Industries & CommerceSurjeet Singh Slathia

43 Revenue & ReliefRaman Bhalla

44 HealthSham Lal Sharma

45 Medical, Education, SportsR S Chib

46 Social WelfareSkina Ittoo

Volume 4, Issue 2, February 2010

Contributors to this Issue 2

Prologue 3

Letters 4

Note Book 6

Special Report

Revisiting Srinagar-Central on 9

20th Anniversary of BloodshedAhmed Ali Fayyaz

Ladakh Special

Ladakh Scraps Sagheer Report 11

Demands Union TerritoryTsewang Rigzin

Why Union Territory for Ladakh 13Rigzin Spalbar

Chinese Cattle Grazing Ladakh Grass 16Tsewang Rigzin

Iqbal as an Advocate of Disabled 17Vidhya Ramasubban

Pagir- In Service of Ladakh 19Vidhya Ramasubban

LAHDC asked to work out policy 20

on CultureTsewang Rigzin

Ladakh Grieved as Stakna Rinpochey 20

Passes AwayTsewang Rigzin

The Winds of Change : 21

Beyond Conventional TourismThinlas Chorol

Society

The Gujjar-Pahari Divide and 47

Local Politics of Rajouri, PoonchAhmad Shannas

Column

Empire and Regional Identities : 50

Kashmir Under the Mughals-IProf. Jigar Mohammed

Her Big Brother Died Fighting 52

for me and for you...Manisha Sobhrajani

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2 CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE

Choral, Thinlas;(Ladakh Special, Rigzin, Tsewang;(Ladakh Special,

p21) is a researcher based in Leh. p11) is an eminent journalist and

She is currently working at a researcher. He is Associate Editor

research project sponsored by New of Epilogue based in Leh, LadakhDelhi based Charkha Development

and Communication Network Shannas, Ahmed;(Society, p47)

recently retired as a bureaucrat

Choudhary, Zafar;(In Focus, p23) is with Jammu and Kashmir

Editor of Epilogue Magazine and Government. However, he is

also Executive Editor of Early known better for his literary

Times, Daily Newspaper from pursuits. He has many Urdu books

Jammu to his credit

Fayyaz, Ahmed Ali; (Special Report, Sobhrajani, Manisha(Features,

9) is a senior journalist, political P52), is a Delhi based independent

analyst and columnist based at researcher working on the variousSrinagar, Kashmir aspects of Kashmir conflict. She

divides her time between Delhi

and Jammu and KashmirMohammed, Prof Jigar; (History,

p50) is professor of History at the

University of Jammu. He is Spalbar, Rigzin;(Ladakh Special,

associated with Epilogue since p13) if former Chairman of Ladakh

inception as Editorial Advisor on Autonomous Hill Development

History of Jammu and Kashmir Council, Leh

Ramasubban, Vidhya;(Ladakh

Special, 17) is a development

activist working in Ladakh. She is

consultant with PAGIR, a Leh basedadvocacy group

Readers' requests for getting in touch with the

authors, for feedback, comments and further

discussions on their subjects of interest, are

welcome. Since all authors/contributors are not

interested in taking mails directly, the readers are

requested to send us interview requests at

[email protected] for passing on to the authors


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PROLOGUEFrom the Editor


t Epilogue, we had Haider, former J&K Chief Secretary

conceived an editorial Ashok Jaitley, noted author Balraj

po li cy fo cu si ng at Puri, activist Madhu Kishwar and

purely academic and policy expert PR Chari. The issue

d e v e l o p m e n t listed expectations. A year after,

Ajournalism leaving the current when we look at the contents of

trends of political happenings to February 2009 issue and compare the

newspapers. However, third month sugge sti ons with deli very of

into our publication we saw the government, it figures out that

power politics in Jammu and Kashmir effort was not a waste. We don't

running through collision course the have a reason to believe that the

ruling partners Peoples Democratic government was guided by the

Party and Congress taking each other agenda set out in Epilogue but it

heads on. Government came at brink appears that the government

of collapse in March 2007 and leaders worked on the issues we had listed as

of both parties claimed that their imp or ta n t. Th is c an be a

stands were the best in interest of coincidence. The present issue

peo ple . Tha t was the fir st offers a one-year performance

temptation to examine and discuss analysis of the government in key

big egos of not so big men. Therefore areas of governance. While a

our April 2007 issues titled 'Vote Bank comprehensive review can well of

Standoff' earned wide appreciations out of the scope and possibility like

gradually we moved on include the a small institution and publication

issues of governance and power like ours, the analysis is based on

politics in every issue with purely vis ible performance indicators

academic approach. Our February backed with public perception of

2009 issue titled 'Agenda for Omar change and a certain level of

Government' was rare offering of its statistics. It is hoped that this issuekind in which experts of national serves well the government as a

repute joined to write down their feedback and the public as a

suggestions for the government to pe rf or ma nc e re vi ew o f the

list those as priorities. Notable government.

Feedback :among the agenda setters [email protected] Foreign Secretary Salman

ZAFAR CHOUDHARY

A Year After

FEBRUARY 2009

APRIL 2009

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LettersReaders Write


his is in response to the various articles, regarding the issue of

Tdiscrimination, published in the month of October 09, and in the

subsequent issues of your esteemed magazine. It seems to me as a one

sided affair as the view point taken from valley was negligibleAfter the forced partition of Kashmir in 1948 into Indian administered

Kashmir and Pakistan administered Kashmir, IAK which is now known as

Jammu and Kashmir, has to confront many hurdles (both internal and

external), which has hampered its development, though some of them

may have vanished but some keep on haunting. One of them is the little

dangerous god i.e. ghost of discrimination.Let us try to trace the contours of this god. As we know, J&K comprises

of three regions; Jammu, Kashmir and ladakh. Jammu has been

complaining of discrimination for long, Kashmir has now also rose to the

occasion and has joined the chorus, while as ladakh blames both of

them.In Jammu the politicians have played this card on a regular basis. Even

the politicians of national level like L K Advani used this card in the

parliamentary elections, when he said, jammu aik tou jeetay jammu.

In kashmir this ghost has started its haunting operations also. Recently, a

spectrum of intellectuals gathered in the famous nigeen club (situated

at the banks of Nigeen Lake, in srinager) and debated on the issue,

almost all of them were of this view that kashmiris are being

discriminated.In my opinion the problem can be resolved by addressing the root cause,

which is in the form of regionalism. In order to dilute the strength of the notion of the discrimination, the root cause of

regionalism is to be eradicated. Let the regions be divided into sub-regions;1) Jammu can be divided into three sub regions; - Jammu plains, chenab valley and pir panchal valley.2) Kashmir can be divided into three sub-regions; - central Kashmir , south Kashmir and north kashmir

3) Ladakh can be divided into two sub-regions; - Leh and kargilThen these sub-regions should be given a good amount of autonomy equivalent to a province. This will not only settle the

issue of discrimination but will also help in locating new investment avenues. It may be the first instance of its kind where

dividing the regions (read discrimination) will unite the state.I hope that these few lines will be taken into consideration by the concerned authorities, while framing the future of

state, so that we can have a sigh of relief and can say all is well.MA SUFISrinagar

Divide the Discrimination, Unite the State

The school which produced an IASovernment Middle School, Demote, in Rehan village of Rajouri district has rare honours in twin border districtsGof Rajouri and Poonch for producing first IAS from the region. It is a matter of pride village and inspiration for

thstudents. Immediately after his selection in IAS, Dr Shahid Iqbal who studied here upto 7 standard visited the

school and interacted with teachers and students. His family donated Rs 21000 and two kanals of land to the school.Since his students all 75 students of this middle school are a different lot they are inspirited, motivated andencouraged, they are dreaming to reach where Shahid has. The problem, however, is that for 75 students there isonly one room which serves as class room, staff room, kitchen store and everything a school requires. There is nocompound wall and no toilets. There is no class when it rains, when it is cold or when it is hot. Is this fair weatherschool right place for the students to dream big? Yes, they can dream but may not be able to do big. Is anyonelistening?

NIAZ AHMEDOn behalf of villagers of Rehan

OCTOBER 2009

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LettersReaders Write


Darling of Ladakh

pilogue's extensive coverage of Ladakh just

Eshows it's proficiency in professionaljournalism. It clearly indicates that it's amagazine with clear-cut visions and definite

missions spearheaded by a sensible editorialboard. Hence it covers the uncovered regionsand areas of Jammu and Kashmir, and puts in thepicture what has not been done so by themainstream media hitherto. Bringing specialissues on Ladakh once in a year, with very

limited readership, well vindicate theirseriousness vis--vis responsible journalism in anera where marketability of news and events arelooked upon first than its suitability and

desirability for the society. But, I believe,prominently covering an area like Ladakh would definitely impinge on it on the commercial front.

As it breaks free from the shackles of corporate journalism that sells only the sensational, tells only the told and hearsonly the heard ones, Epilogue gives space to the unheard and unknown writers and scholars who generally come out withextremely interesting stories and incredibly refreshing ideas. The budding writers and scholars from regions like Ladakh (andother far flung areas of the state) get a good platform to express their ideas/stories and also to nurture their respective

vocations/professions. Furthermore, Epilogue, I believe, is the first magazine (or a news paper) in J&K that has found itdesirable to have a Ladakhi in its editorial boardespecially not just for the sake of it, but to add sensibility andresponsiveness to issues emerging out of all three regions of the state.

SONAM CHOSJAR

Leh

AUGUST 2009NOVEMBER 2007

5

sit miles away from home romanticizing the legendary beauty of Jammu and Kashmir; nurturing nostalgia for a past thatIcan never be recovered in the form I was most familiar with; cherishing the pervasive tranquility brought on by mycontemplation of the intricately carved shrines, architecturally superb temples, and mesmerizing monasteries of Jammu and

Kashmir; filled with longing for the call of the mountains that beckons the diasporic subject to return; irate at the

communal, regional, and linguistic divides created by destructive forces; experiencing a helplessness at being unable to put

together the pieces of the political puzzle that continues to remain irresolvable; shivering at the cold-blooded manipulations

of our political and bureaucratic machinery, I riffle through the past issues of Epilogue magazine.Epilogue voices not just politically savvy but culturally sensitive opinions as well. It provides a forum at which heterogeneity

in terms of cultural, political, social, and regional ideologies, is fostered and encouraged. Reading a magazine that does not

subscribe to myopic ideologies rejuvenates the mind and resuscitates the spirit. In a region which has experienced armed

insurgency, resurgence of religious fundamentalisms, militant nationalism, gendered violence, increasing militarization; some

genuine attempts to fight for the right of self-determination of the people of J & K; some disingenuous attempts to entrench

regional and religious fault lines, Epilogue has successfully created a space for the critical analysis ofnation-building, identity politics, state-sponsored violence, discriminatory politics, etc. Although

still young, exactly three years old, Epilogue is creating a healthy and vibrant discourse community.

Epilogue has opened up an alternative way of negotiating the construction of conflictual identities. I

congratulate Zafar Chaudhary for having undertaken a laudable venture. I wish Epilogue the very

best in its commendable attempts to engage multiple voices and opinions.NYLA ALI KHAN

Author of Islam, Women and Violence in Kashmir

Alternative Way of Negotiating


8/64

NOTE BOOKAwards & Honours


Padma honoursFor third consecutive year, three

eminent personalities from Jammu andKashmir have bagged the Padma Awardsthe country's highest civilian awards.Ghulam Mohammad Mir has beenawarded Padma Shri for Public Serviceswhile Dr Jitender Udhampuri and ProfHamidi Kashmiri have bagged the sameaward for their notable contribution inEducation and Literature. Mir, a resi-dent of Beerwah village in Badgam dis-trict of central Kashmir, runs a non-governmental organization.

Gallantry awardsMajor Mohit Sharma of 1 Para (Spe-

cial Forces), Major D Sreeram Kumar of30 Assam Rifles and Havildar RajeshKumar of 11 Rajputana Rifles were therecipients of this year's Ashok Chakra.Maj Mohit Sharma, born in Jhansi inUttar Pradesh and commissioned in 90Medium Regiment (Artillery) in March2004, will get the award posthumouslyas he was killed in a battle with terror-ists in the Hafruda forest in Jammu and

Sher-e-Kashmir awards Jameel Ahmed Khatana, Deputy Super-Kashmir in March 2009.

intendent o Police, Sukh Dev Singh, Dep-As many as 28 cops of Jammu andPresident Patil presented Kirti uty Superintendent of Police, PeerzadaKashmir Police clinched this year's Presi-Chakra, the second highest peace timeNaveed, Deputy Superintendent ofdent's Police Medal for Gallantry and Dis-gallantry medal, to Rukhsana Kausar, aPolice, Rajinder Singh Rahi, Inspector,tinguished Services.village girl from border district ofPawan Singh, Sub-Inspector, KafeelThe Gallantry Medal awardees areRajouri, who shot into limelight afterAhmed, Head Constable, MohammadSardar Khan Superintendent of Police,killing a Lashker-e-Taiba militant on Sep-Rafiq, Head Constable, and Constables,Mohammad Arshad Superintendent oftember 27, 2009 at Kalsian area ofAbdul Majid Najar, Mohammad ImranPolice, Kaliraj Mahaish Kumar, Addi-Shahdra Shrief in Rajouri district ofLone, Aijaz Ahmed Mir, Ishaq Ahmed andtional Superintendent of Police,Jammu and Kashmir.

RAIN OF AWARDS

Men, Women of Exceptional Order

January is always a month of honours and accolades and this year's Republic Day came with a rain of

awards for Jammu and Kashmir. While the valiant Gujjar girl of a Rajouri village Rukhsana Kausar

bagged Kirti Chakra, the highest peacetime gallantry award, three exceptional performers from the

state were conferred with Padma awards.

6

ARUN JOSHI MAHRUKH INAYAT NIDHI RAAZDAN Lt Gen BS JAMWALIFTIKHAR GILANI BASHARAT DAR BR SHARMA ASHOK GUPTA

RUKHSANA KOSSER


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a Follower, Kanwal Singh. ways, J&K Mohammad Sulamian Salaria, Daily Srinagar Times; Arun JoshiSSP (AIG) Personnel (PHQ) ND Wani, SSP (Deputy Editor Hindustan Times);The medals for Distinguished Ser-PCR, Jammu, Jagdish Lal Sharma and Nidhi Razdan, (NDTV), Marukhvices awarded to the officers and

Head Constable, JKAP 7th Bn Charan Inayat, (Times News), Iftikharjawans of Jammu and Kashmir PoliceDass. Geelani, (Kashmir Times) andinclude. Abdul Qayoom Manhas, Deputy

Maqsood Ahmad, Broadcast Journal-Inspector General of Police, (North Kash-ist, Radio Kashmirmir), Sunil Kumar Sharma, Deputy 7 scribes among 26 state awardees

Inspector General of Police (CID) ?INDUSTRIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIPOn the eve of Republic Day theJammu, Kasturi Lal Bhagat, Comman- Taranveer Singh Gujral, M/S T. V.Jammu and Kashmir governmentdant (JKAP) 12 Battalion, Shyam Sunder Super Filter Industries, Jammu,announced an expanded list of StateSharma, Superintendent of Police ?MEDIAawards in which 26 exceptional per-(APCR), Jammu, Thakur Dass Saini, Sheherbeen (Radio Kashmir,formers were honoured in 10 differentSuperintendent of Police, Railway Head- Srinagar)categories:quarters, Hial Ahmed Shah, Senior ?BRAVERYSuperintendent of Police, Telecommu- 143 medals for Northern CommandRukhsana Kosser and Mr Ajaz Ahmednication, Jammu, Mr. Swatanter Kumar With its headquarters at Udhampur?LITERATURE(SDPO) City North, Jammu, Mohammad in Jammu and Kashmir, the NorthernProf Rehman Rahi, Kashmiri poetAslam, Deputy Superintendent of Police

Command of Indian Army won as manyand writer, Prof Sewa Singh, Punjabi(PHQ), Mr. Abdul Rashid Shah, Inspector as 143 awards in three different catego-writer and Prof Veena Gupta (DogriCID Headquarters, Aurengzeb Rather, ries of gallantry, conduct of operationswriter)Sub-Inspector (DSB), Poonch, Mr.

and distinguished service:?ARTSMohammad Rafiq Bhat Sub-Inspector,

Leading upfront, Lt Gen BS Jaswal,Shameem Azad, (Singer), Kailash(Police Component) Srinagar, Mr.

GOC-IN-C Northern Command wasMehra (Singer), Pradhuman SinghMohammad Shafi, Sub-Inspector (SSG)awarded the Param Vishisht Seva MedalJindrahia (Dogri folk artist) andand Mr. Parvaiz Ahmed Malik, Head Con-(PVSM), which is the highest award forUstad Ghulam Mohammad Saznawazstable (JKAP), 13 Battalion.

(Sufiana Ustad) distinguished service of an exceptionalThe Sher-e-Kashmir Police Medalorder. Havildar Ashok Kumar of 11?ARTS AND CRAFTSfor Gallantry and Meritorious Services, aRajputana Rifles was posthumouslyMohammad Shariq Farooqui, Direc-state level highest police award ofawarded the nation's highest peacetimetor, Craft Development Institute,Jammu and Kashmir, went to 21 cops ofgallantry award - the Ashok Chakra.Srinagarthe state Police.Havildar Rajesh Kumar was part of a?SOCIAL SERVICEThis year's gallantry award went to

team which was on a search mission inViklang Chhatra Trust, AkhnoorRajesh Kumar, IPS, Bashir Ahmed Khan, the dense forest of Kupwara district of?PUBLIC SERVICESP Awantipore and Mohammad AslamJammu and Kashmir. During this opera-B.R. Sharma, IAS, Principal Secre-ASP (Operations) Pulwama.tion he killed three terrorists before lay-tary to Government, Power Devel-The Sheri-i-Kashmir Police Medalsing down his life. Maj Suresh Suri wasopment Department; Basharatfor Meritorious Service awardees werealso awarded the Kirti Chakra. The offi-Ahmad Dhar, IAS, Commissioner/Ashok Kumar Gupta, IGP, Jammu Zone,cer despite being injured retaliatedSecretary to Government, GeneralJohny William, SSP Securitywith fire from his AK-47 Rifle and alsoAdministration Department; Mr.Jammu, Kuldeep Krishan Raina, Inspec-lobbed a hand grenade, killing one ter-Nisar Ahmad Shah, Junior Engineer,tor (PHQ) and Mehboob-ul-Haq, Inspec-rorist and injuring another. He laid downRajpora Lift Irrigation Scheme, Irri-tor, Armed Headquarters.his life fighting in the highest traditionsgation and Flood Control Depart-Other awardees on gallantry cate-of the army. Other gallantry awards are,ment and Mr. Ishtaq Ahmad Khan,gory included SDPO Hazratbnal,

Naib Tehsildar (Settlement), Reve- 15 Shaurya Chakras, two Bar to SenaMubashir Bukhari, SDPO Shaheed Gunj,nue Department. Medals and 73 Sena Medals. ThreeShahzad Ahmed Salaria, DY SP (Opera-

Uttam Yudh Seva Medals and 10 Yudhtions) Sopore, Mohammad Yousuf, SHO ?SPORTS PERSONSManjakote , Niaz Ahmed, Constables Seva Medals were awarded for success-Chhering Angchok, Nobra, LehSubash Chander and Javaid Ahmad. ful conduct of operations. The awards(Mountaineering) and Bilquis MirSGCT, Kashmir Singh, Head Constables for distinguished service are two(Kayaking and Canoeing)Ram Rattan and Mohammad Rafi, Con- PVSMs, one Bar to Ati Vishisht Seva?MEDIA PERSONSstables, Ajeet Kumar, SPO Mr. Chuni Lal Medal (AVSM), three AVSMs, two Bar toLate Sonaullah Bhat (Posthumously)

The Sheri-i-Kashmir Police Medals Sena Medal Distinguished, nine SenaEditor-in-Chief Urdu Daily Aftab;for Meritorious Service (independence Late Sofi Ghulam Mohammad (Post- Medal Distinguished, six VSMs and 15Day-2009) awardees t are DIG, Rail- Mention-in-Despatches.humously) Editor-in-Chief Urdu


NOTE BOOKAwards & Honours

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11/64

SPECIAL REPORTNotes from Maisuma


t doesn't take much to remember

and forget in the Valley. History isIreplete with remembrance andforgetfulness. Nobody remembered

Kashmir's last monarch Yusuf Shah for

over 400 years till Sheikh Abdullah and

Yusuf Taing went all the way to Biswak

(Bihar) to discover his tomb in 1977.

That again ended up as a celestial

event. Nobody talked of that Yusuf Shah

thereafter. May be someone does innext 400 years.

With the Kashmiris finding Sher-e-

Kashmir's name on the fallen autumn

leaves of Chinar in 1950s, he himself had

reduced to a sub-conscious entity in

early 1970s. Pakistan's defeat in two

successive wars in between pushed

Sheikh to a far bitter mundane reality.

The referendum in his mind voted forSheikh conquered Srinagar with a Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, with apower. Days to come vindicated Sheikh's

massive gathering as melancholy faded courtesy lift to then Sopore MLA Syed Alidecision. Valley dismissed him as ainto euphoria and jubilation on his Shah Geelani, came all the way fromtraitor and observed total shutdown onarrival in Lalchowk on that historic day Civil Secretariat of Jammu and landedZulfikar Ali Bhutto's call on the day of hisof spring in 1975. One-odd voice of his flying machine on the Mahaz-e-Azadidecision to return to the chair of Chiefdissent, Sofi Mohammad Akbar, was chief's town. He even set free Sofi'sMinister. Three days later, Kashmirisconsigned to oblivion. In contrast to protg Azam Inquilabi for whosegave him a veritable hero's welcome asShei kh' s mill ion -st ron g fune ral signing of parole die-hard Farooqthousands of them gathered on eitherprocession in 1982, Sofi's last rites in Rehmani had failed to find a surety inside of the highway to greet and garland1988 became a bit of 'news' only when the valley of four million people.him.

AHMED ALI FAYYAZ

Revisiting Srinagar-Central onth20 Anniversary of Bloodshed

In 20th year of the movement forAzadi, Maisuma-Gawkadal the central separatist hotspot of Srinagar

came up with a queer presentation of its split personality as groups of people maintained their stone

pelting sessions against Police and CRPF and the JKLF Chief became the glamorous hero of a celebrity

wedding with the young Pakistani painter Mashaal Mullick. Amid a razzmatazz, wags were heard shouting:

Bharat teri maut aayi, bhabhi aayi bhabhi aayi---a parody of once the popular slogan Bharat teri mautaayi, Lashkar aayi Lashkar aayi.

A scene of complete shutdown in Maisuma sometimes in summer 2009.

Epilogue File Photo

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Nobody remembered Maqbool Bhat daughter of the Braroo family of the Hurriyat themselves forgot to issue a

on the day of his execution at Tihar Jail staying back Kashmiri Pandits at Basant call of strike on this historic day.

on February 11 in 1984. Abdul Gani Bag. It was silenced with just a couple of This Wall Street of Azadi observed

Lone's loud calls of shutdown fell on the browbeats. total boycott to all Assembly and Lok

deaf ears on that day and the following Th is Ma is u ma -G aw ka da l- Sabha elections from 1996 to 2004 but

anniversaries. It took the people of Basantbagh locality, bordering Srinagar flocked to the polling booths at

Valley six long years to first remember uptown and downtown, came to be Veterinary Hospital and Mallinson

Bhat in February 1990. By that time they remembered later for being the School in the Municipal Elections of

had forgotten Sheikh Abdullah and residence of JKLF Chairman, Yasin 2005. A couple of years before, Chief

begun to remember Sheikh Mukhtar--- Malik. Much more than the massacre, Minister Mufti Sayeed's demolition

the lion of the African desert. people later began to remember it for squads had the temerity of dismantling

Much like Sofi Akbar's loneliness in being a rendezvous of the Indian an unauthorized projection of a shop

1988, Sheikh Abdullah in 1990-95 had that belonged to once revered, once

one-odd homage payer at his grand dreaded Yasin Malik's close relative.

mausoleum at Hazratbal in Maqbool Shah In 20th year of the movement,

Khaksaar of Ikhrajpora, who never hid his Maisuma-Gawkadal came up with apride of leading Sher-e-Kashmir's militia queer presentation of its split

to repulse the Pakistani tribal raider's personality as groups of people

invasion in 1947 till he was gunned down maintained their stone pelting sessions

by guerrillas outside his mosque in 2005. against Police and CRPF and the JKLF

I n 1 9 9 0 s , K a s h m i r i s d i d Chief became the glamorous hero of a

enthusiastically begin to remember celebrity wedding with the young

another Yusuf Shah, albeit only after his Pakistani painter Mashaal Mullick. Amid

turning into the Hizbul Mujahideen a razzmatazz, wags were heard

chief 'Syed Salah-ud-din'. Nobody really shouting: Bharat teri maut aayi,

knows how long Shah's guns and amulets bhabhi aayi bhabhi aayi---a parody of

loom large on their conscious mind. once the popular slogan Bharat teri

maut aayi, Lashkar aayi Lashkar aayi.It was exactly on this day of

January 21 in 1990 that the real And look what the champions offoundation stone of a def iant, Azadi did on the 20th birth day of the

secessionist movement was laid in Gawkadal massacre: Biggest crowd

Kashmir with a major massacre. CRPF puller Geelani shot off a statement of

troops opened machinegun fire from tributes from his second home in the

their sandbag bunkers on an Azadi Indian Capital, New Delhi; Others from

procession, killing nearly 50 civilians at Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to Maulvi Abbas

Gawkadal. Anniversaries for the next Ansari to Bilal Gani Lone to Prof Abdulintellectuals, mediapersons and foreign

many years did not need anybody's call Gani to Shabir Shah even didn't do thatdiplomats who for years thronged

to ensure a total shutdown in entire in their luxurious drawing rooms inMalik's non-descript house and office.

Valley. Those critical of the brutal Srinagar. There was no activity in theOne day, even Kuldeep Nayar found

killing of SHO Maisuma , Sadullah, by Valley, either at the Martyrs Graveyardhimself tired of offering glasses of juice

the 'Mujahideen' a year before, and or elsewhere, as everybody seemed to

to break Malik's weekly and fortnightlygunning down of two IB officials around be busy with routine daily chores.fasts-unto-death. And he turned his

the same spot later, vanished into the Business was brisk at Lalchowk andback on Maisuma. With that change in

thick fog of the sentiment of Azadi. around. Yasin Malik addressed athe atmosphere, it required a much

gathering of a little over 100 fellowFirst murmur of protest instressed call from militants and Hurriyat

residents at Maisuma to remember theGawkadal came three years later whento remember the martyrs of the

Gawkadal martyrs and tell his audienceJKLF gunmen allegedly committedGawkadal massacre on January 21. In

that their blood wouldn't go waste.rape-cum-murder of a mother andthe next couple of years, militants and


And look what the champions of Azadidid on the 20th birth day of theGawkadal massacre: Biggest crowdpuller Geelani shot off a statement oftributes from his second home in theIndian Capital, New Delhi; Others fromMirwaiz Umar Farooq to Maulvi AbbasAnsari to Bilal Gani Lone to Prof AbdulGani to Shabir Shah even didn't do thatin their luxurious drawing rooms inSrinagar. There was no activity in theValley, either at the Martyrs Graveyardor elsewhere, as everybody seemed tobe busy with routine daily chores.

Business was brisk at Lalchowk andaround. Yasin Malik addressed agathering of a little over 100 fellowresidents at Maisuma to remember theGawkadal martyrs and tell his audiencethat their blood wouldn't go waste.

SPECIAL REPORTNotes from Maisuma

10


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LADAKH SPECIALPolitics


zations in this regard. All political par- added reiterating the 'in principle' sup-s the Working Group rejectsties having their office in Leh, Muslims port of the Shia community to the UTUnion Territory status for Ladakh,communities (Shia and Suni) and the demand. With the support of all politi-Athe Leh based political partiesChristian community have expended cal and religious organizations to thisincluding the District Congresstheir support for the LBA to pursue the 'third front for UT', sources say that theCommittee (DCC) Leh and the LadakhUT demand. Welcoming such an apoliti- first meeting of the front is likely to beUnion Territory Front (LUTF) have pro-cal forum for demanding UT status, ES held in February to chalk out strategiesjected strong resentment by stagingGergan, Principal Moravian Mission to advocate the UT demand for Ladakh.dharnas and organizing public meetings

against the Sagheer report, terming it Last year when the Government of

as prepared under the influence of cer- India proposed to hold quiet talks

tain political forces that advocate with all shades of opinions to find an ami-

autonomy for Jammu and Kashmir. cable solution to the Kashmir issue, peo-

ple of Ladakh urged the Government ofWith this the UT demand has cer- India to involve Ladakh also in the pro-tainly intensified once again. Religiousposed talks. Reiterating the longstand-associations are also trying to float aing Union Territory demand for Ladakh,new conglomeration with representa-the Congress Party passed a resolutiontives of all political and religious organi-appealing to the Prime Minster and thezations to carry forward the UT demandHome Minister to involve the people ofwithout politicizing the issue. This moveLadakh as well in the proposed talks.was first initiated by the Youth Wing ofLadakh, from all aspects, fulfils all cri-the Ladakh Buddhists Association (LBA).teria for creating a Union Territory. AtThe Prime Minister's constitutedthe same time people of Ladakh,Working Group's report on the 'Centre- School Leh, said that as a communitythrough this resolution, firmly place onState relations' presented by Justice Christians of Leh will always supportrecord, that we reject any solutions likeSagheer is shocking for Ladakh as it has anything that is good for Ladakh.Autonomy or Self rule or restoration of

ignored the UT demand of Ladakhis. We, Ashraf Ali Barcha, President Anjuman pre-53 status to the state of Jammu &therefore, felt the need to form an Imamia Leh feels that at the present sce-Kashmir which involves Ladakh in it. Inaction committee on the UT issue with nario, no organization seems too effec-the event of finding a final solution toall political and religious organizations tive to put forth the UT demandthe Kashmir issue, come what may,of Leh on board, said Tsewang strongly. The proposed conglomera-Ladakh shall not settle for anything lessThinless, President LBA Youth, adding tion of different organizations of Lehthan Union Territory with Legislature forthat the LBA had already consulted all will be helpful to strongly demand theit, the resolution reads.Leh based political and religious organi- UT status for Ladakh collectively, he

TSEWANG RIGZIN

Ladakh Scraps Sagheer Report;

Demands Union Territory

The report on Prime Minister's Working Group on Centre-State relations submitted to the

government of Jammu and Kashmir by Justice (Retd) Sagheer Ahmad has anguished the people of

Ladakh and evoked strong objections against recommending autonomy to the State of Jammu &

Kashmir and ruling out the status of Union Territory (UT) for Ladakh region

Ashraf Ali Barcha, President Anjuman

Imamia Leh feels that at the present

scenario, no organization seems too

effective to put forth the UT demandstrongly. The proposed

conglomeration of different

organizations of Leh will be helpful to

strongly demand the UT status for

Ladakh collectively, he added

reiterating the 'in principle' support of

the Shia community to the UT demand

11


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In a memorandum presented to the ers demanded creation of New States during the Dogra regime of nearly a cen-

Prime Minister on January 23, Thupstan of Telangana in Andhra Pradesh, tury and a quarter, Ladakhi people had

Chhewang, President- Patron LUTF, has Vidharbha in Maharashtra, Bundel countless bitter experiences at the

accused Justice (retd) Sagir Ahmed of Khand, Harit Pradesh, Sonanchal in UP, hands of Kashmiri administrators. Inpreparing a document on his own with- Saurashtra in Gujrat, Gorkhaland in addition to this, continued discrimina-

out even showing its draft to the West Bengal, Bodoland in Assam and tions meted out to Ladakhi people by

Working Group. Justice (retd) Sagir Union Territory for Ladakh. While advo- successive rulers of J&K for decades

Ahmed has given a report which has cating the conferment of Union after the independence, further inten-

rejected our demand for the Union Terr itory status to Ladakh with sified Ladakh's demand for separation

Territory status without even going to Legislature, Rigzin Spalbar, who was from Jammu & Kashmir. There are his-

the merits of the issue and sparing a made a member of the Executive Body torical documents that reveal that right

thought for our feelings. We had high of the Bhartiya Federation for New after the independence, even before

hopes from the Working Group headed states, strongly crit icized Justice Jammu & Kashmir finally acceded to the

by him and appointed by you with the Sagheer Ahmed for not recommending Indian Union, people of Ladakh sought

best of intentions for reaching a consen- UT for Ladakh in the Working Group separation of Ladakh from Jammu &

sus on the Centre-State relations, Ka shmi r, and appealed to the

memorandum reads adding that the Government of India to administerreport has ignored the multi-region, Ladakh directly from the Center on the

multi-ethnic and secular character of pattern of the North Eastern Frontier

the State. Chhewang was the Lok Sabha Area (NEFA) administration or to make it

MP from Ladakh when the Working a part of erstwhile East Punjab.

Group was constituted. He was also a In the present political scenario ofmember of the Working Group on the the State, Ladakh, that had been anCentre-State relations. The independent kingdom for about nineCongress Party in Leh criticized centuries until 1830s, has been reducedChhewang for failing to raise the Union to mere two districts. This uniqueTerritory demand effectively at region has its unique problems for whichWorking Group meetings. most of the laws legislated by the State

Amidst all oppositions against this Government go against the interests of

report, came the shocking statement by the people of Ladakh.Hassan Khan, the Lok Sabha MP from Anyone with an average commonLadakh, who without any consultation sense would easily understand that itmeetings with the public, went on to doesn't make any sense to keep Ladakhsupporting the report that recom- forcefully with Jammu & Kashmirmended Autonomy to the State. Mr. despite that fact that Ladakh has noth-

report and vowed that Ladakh shallKhan has endorsed the report in an ing in common linguistically, culturally,never be a part of J&K with Autonomyinterview to the Lok Sabha TV channel historically and geographically withand fight to the last blood to achieve UTand in an Urdu Daily, called Hindustan other parts of Jammu & Kashmir.for Ladakh. Justifying the UT demandExpress on January 21, 2010. In protest Moreover snow falls in winter monthsfor Ladakh and seeking support fromof his statement, calling it unilateral cause the closure of Ladakh-Srinagarleaders and people nationwide, heand 'unwarranted', the Congress Party highway for about six months a yearargued that after the accession ofhas called a complete Ladakh bandh on thereby isolating Ladakh physically

Jammu & Kashmir with the IndianJanuary 30, 2010. from rest of the State.Union, there was no ground left to keepRigzin Spalbar, President District Geographically Ladakh constitutesLadakh still as a part of the State,Congress Committee, Leh, represented two-third of the entire State of Jammubecause Ladakh was forcefully annexedLadakh in a day long Dharna staged at & Kashmir, but at present in the 87 mem-to the Dogra Rule by Jammu MaharajaJantar Mantar New Delhi on 14 January ber state assembly, representation toGulab Singh's Army general Zorawarby the Bhartiya Federation for New Ladakh is very minimal as there are onlySingh in 1834.states when leaders from different four seats, two each for Leh and Kargil

It is pertinent to mention here thatstates of India, along with their support- districts.


Amidst all oppositions against thisreport, came the shocking statement by

Hassan Khan, the Lok Sabha MP from

Ladakh, who without any consultation

meetings with the public, went on to

supporting the report that

recommended Autonomy to the State.

Mr. Khan has endorsed the report in an

interview to the Lok Sabha TV channel

and in an Urdu Daily, called Hindustan

Express on January 21, 2010. In protest

of his statement, calling it unilateral and'unwarranted', the Congress Party has

called a complete Ladakh bandh on

January 30, 2010

LADAKH SPECIALPolitics

12


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Opinion


exploitation, feudal and colonial rule, In the absence of any study whichadakh was once an independentbut we, the people of Ladakh, with a has analysed Ladakh's problems from aHimalayan Kingdom. The politicaldistinct identity of our own have been nationalistic and political perspective,Lhistory of Ladakh dates back topushed under an oppressive political our endeavour is three-fold. Firstly, we930 A.D. when several small, sovereigndomination of Kashmiris and denied the intend to highlight the emergence andprincipalities outlying the Westernfruits of freedom and national asserti on of nation al identity,Himalayas were integrated and given aindependence. patriotism and national integrationunified polity by Lha-Chen-Palgigon.

The State of Jammu and Kashmir, among the Ladakhis towards ourLadakh as an independent kingdomthe territorial limits of which never motherland. Secondly, we want to havegained political status during 15th-16thformed a natural geopolitical entity in an objective assessment of the politicalcentury when the Namgyal dynasty

its real sense, still suffers from exploitation of the people of Ladakhcame into power. The reign of the geopolitical crises and disorder. and the Ladakhi's resistance towardsNamgyal dynasty lasted until 1842 whenFrederic Drew who served as Governor Kashmiri sub-nationalism. Thirdly, wea Dogra General, Zorawar Singh,in Ladakh in the 19th century remarked are determined to mobilize publicannexed Ladakh into the Dogra Empire.that the territories of Jammu and opinion and national consensus in orderAfter 100 years of Dogra rule, LadakhKashmir have no other bond of cohesion to evolve a new perspective towards thealongwith Jammu and Kashmir becamethan the fact of Maharaja's rule, no reorganization of Jammu and Kashmiran integral part of India in 1947.simple name for it exists. State.In the modern times, when the

The degree of heterogeneity among The history of modern Ladakh canwhole subcontinent has passed throughthe three regions is very high not only in be considered as the history of thethe process of decolonization to enjoyform but also in sharpness. In the case of emergence and assertion of nationalismthe fruits of national independence,Ladakh this heterogeneity is expressed and integration with modern India.we, the people of Ladakh, and our landnot only in terms of its totally different Nationalism became the mass ideologystill continue to suffer under the oldphysiographic setting but also manifest in propagated and perpetuated by theconcept of colonial administrativeits ethnic composition, language, faith, leadership of Ven. Kushok Bakula.structure, which suited the imperialphilosophy and culture. In the last 52 Nationalism remained a dominantinterests and feudal rulers under theyears of independence, the people of ideological creed and became a rallyingname of the pseudo-state of Jammu andLadakh, not only have suffered rampant force among the Ladakhis to fight backKashmir. Gandhiji and other nationalKashmiri political domination but also the Pakistanis and the Chinese wholeaders emancipated the Indian massessevere drive of separatism. made frequent bids to conquer our landfrom the oppressive alien domination,

RIGZIN SPALBAR

Why Union Territory

for Ladakh ?

From the very outset Ladakh's political merger with J&K did not form any natural cohesion and proved to

be a folly throughout. Except for the Dogras' suzerainty as a commonality, Ladakh is fundamentally

different from Kashmir in all respects - culturally, ethnically and linguistically. Over the years the

successive governments of the state have adopted a policy of discrimination and subversion towards the

region with the sole objective of oppressing its people and marginalizing its historical, ethnic and culturalidentity.

LADAKH SPECIAL13


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in 1948, 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1999 behalf of the people of Ladakh on 4 May Territory. The Government of India,

wars. The jawans of Ladakh Scouts 1949. The memorandum concludes as however, never responded favourably to

played an exemplary role in decisively under: Ladakh is not prepared to go to our sincere conviction; instead left us to

foiling the enemy's misadventures. The Pakistan whatever the result of the be governed by Kashmiris during these

people of Ladakh always stood for plebiscite may be. The memorandum decades to our utter ruin. In the post -

national unity and integrity of the further put forth a poignant appeal to Independence period we have been

country. We always supported the India: reduced to the status of slaves in our

We seek the bosom of thatGovernment in Delhi, irrespective of own homeland. The impact of

gracious mother (India) to receive morethe political party in power. oppressive rule unleashed by the J&K

At the time of the British plan to nutriment for growth to our full stature Government over us has obliterated our

partition India we made our stand clear in every way. She has given us what we cultural and social ethos.

vis-a-vis our position within the State of prize above all other things - our Sheikh Abdullah's Government

J&K through our memoranda to the divided Ladakh on communal basis in

Maharaja of J&K and to the Prime 1979 by creating two separate districts

Minister of India. of Leh and Kargil with Buddhist and

Based on bitter experience that Muslim majorities respectively.the people of Ladakh faced during the Subsequently they encouragedperiod of a century, their growing communalization of Ladakh's political,apprehensions for future were social and cultural life. Such policiesexplicitly communicated by the people have severely challenged our age-oldof Ladakh and adjoining areas to the communal harmony and secularMaharaja through a memorandum in the credentials. Their policy of divide andState Praja Sabha. It consists of three rule by creating rift between Leh andalternative proposals: Kargil is a ploy to keep innocent

(1) The Maharaja should govern Ladakhis under thei r furtherLadakh directly without tagging it on to subjugation. Therefore, our majorKashmir valley. struggle in the post - Independence

(2) Our homeland be amalgamated per iod has been to have anwith the province and should form a

administration in Ladakh to beseparate province in which adequate

controlled directly by the centralsafeguard should be provided for

government.distinctive rights and interests of

The history of our struggle goesLadakhis.

back to 1964 when the first organized(3) Ladakh should be permitted to

effort of Ladakhis against Kashmirireligion and culture. The Ashoka wheeljoin East Punjab.

domination and exploitation, under theon her flag, symbol of goodwill for allHowever, the Maharaja's inability

leadership of Ven. Kushok Bakulahumanity, and her concern for herto reply due to sudden developments in

manifested itself in a demand for NEFAcultural children, calls us irresistibly.the State leading to the relinquishment

type Central administration. A similarWill the great mother refuse to take toof his position as a party in respect of

agitation was launched in 1974 underher arms one of her weakest and mostour proposals at (1) to (2) made us

the leadership of Lama Lobzang,forlorn and depressed children - a childchoose a path independent of him. AfterThupstan Chhewang and Tseringwhom filial love impels to respond tomature deliberation it was decided byS a m p h e l d e m a n d i n g C e n t r a lthe call?our people to merge with Indiaadministration for Ladakh. Again inLadakhis have s ince thenstraightaway. This historic decision was1982 a movement was led by Sh. P.cons i s t ent l y been demand ingcommunicated through a memorandumNamgyal, M.P demanding Regionalseparation from Jammu and Kashmirsubmitted by Kalon Chhewang Rigzin toAutonomy. But instead of satisfying ourState and asking for the status of UnionPrime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru on


In the absence of any study which has

analysed Ladakh's problems from a

nationalistic and political perspective,our endeavour is three-fold. Firstly, we

intend to highlight the emergence and

assertion of national identity, patriotism

and national integration among the

Ladakhis towards our motherland.

Secondly, we want to have an objective

assessment of the political exploitation

of the people of Ladakh and the

Ladakhi's resistance towards Kashmiri

sub-nationalism. Thirdly, we are

determined to mobilize public opinionand national consensus in order to

evolve a new perspective towards the

reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir

State.

Opinion

LADAKH SPECIAL 14


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democratic rights and aspirations the its General Council for grant of Union Ladakhis are peace-loving people.

successive Kashmiri rulers severally Territory for Ladakh. The recent Taking to arms and violence is against

suppressed the democratic movement recommendation of Justice (Rtd.) our basic philosophy. In fact, our entire

of peace loving Ladakhis through the Sagheer Ahmed, with no support of movement has throughout been

State Armed Police. The Ladakh other WG members, advocating peaceful and democratic. We are also

agitation of 1989, led by Ladakh autonomy for J&K on the lines of against the violent path followed by

Buddhist Association is quite well- National Conference stand, which is people elsewhere in the country. Our

known, which was a result of the totally against the wishes of the people main objective is to convey our

cumulative alienation of our people. At apprehensions which are related not

a time when anti-national activities only to our own problems but also to

were gaining momentum in the Valley, national security issues. We appeal to

re su lt in g in to ta l bo yc ot t of the national leaders, intelligentsia and

Independence Day the common people to support our

demand for Union Territory status andcelebrat ions, the Farooq

also help us in our struggle against allgovernment instead of nipping the

forces which are trying to bringsecessionist movement in the bud,

destabilization in this strategicallychose to let out his anger on the

sensetive frontier region. Their moralpeaceful demonstrators in Leh resulting

and material support to our demand willin loss of lives. On the intervention of

greatly help in creating a stable andCentral Government and in view of the

strong national frontier.increasing anti-national activities

elsewhere in the State and, therefore, It is absolutely erroneous to equate

keeping in mind the larger national Kashmir valley with the rest of the

in te re st , the Ladakh Buddhi st state. Ladakh constitutes 69.6% of the

Assotiation suspended its demand for total J&K territory with a distinct geo-

Union Territory and accepted the political and geo-cultural identity of its

Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development own. The aspirations of the people of

Council (LAHDC) as a compromise under Ladakh and their national outlook are

the tripartite agreement reached different from those of the people of

between the State government, the Kashmir. Leaders of Kashmir valley can

Central government and the LBA on 29 never be leaders of our people and our

October 1989. It is however, most assimilation with the people of the

unfortunate that the then National Valley is next to impossible. The need of

Conference Government did not the hour is, therefore, to tackle all the

actual ly allow any quantum of problems relating to Jammu, Kashmir

autonomy to be exercised by the and Ladakh in totality.

democratically elected LAHDC and also Any attempt at handling theof Jammu and Ladakh, goes to prove

starved it of funds. It is ironical that the Kashmir issue in isolation by ignoringthat Kashmiri rulers treat Ladakhsame Party (NC) is pleading for, greater the problems of Jammu and Ladakh willmerely as its colony. Under these

autonomy, for the state. not only be shortsighted but alsocircumstances we are left with noIn the wake of the then National counterproductive. Grant of UT withchoice but to reiterate our long-

Conference Government passing a Legislature to Ladakh on the basis of itsstanding demand for granting Unionresolution in State Assembly for grant of lin gui st ic, cultu ra l, ethnic andTerritory status to Ladakh, which wouldgreater autonomy to J&K, the Ladakh geographical isolation from Kashmirguarantee us an administrative set-upAutonomous Hill Development Council shall be an investment in permanentlyto run our own affairs and safeguard ourLeh unanimously passed a resolution in securing our borders in Ladakh.interests.


The history of our struggle goes back to

1964 when the first organized effort of

Ladakhis against Kashmiri domination

and exploitation, under the leadership of

Ven. Kushok Bakula manifested itself in

a demand for NEFA type Central

administration. A similar agitation was

launched in 1974 under the leadership of

Lama Lobzang, Thupstan Chhewang and

Tsering Samphel demanding Central

administration for Ladakh. Again in

1982 a movement was led by Sh. P.

Namgyal, M.P demanding Regional

Autonomy. But instead of satisfying our

democratic rights and aspirations the

successive Kashmiri rulers severally

suppressed the democratic movement

of peace loving Ladakhis through the

State Armed Police. The Ladakh

agitation of 1989, led by Ladakh

Buddhist Association is quite well-

known, which was a result of the

cumulative alienation of our people

Opinion

LADAKH SPECIAL15


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Reportage


n a representation to the PrimeMinster, Dr. Manmohan Singh, theINambardar Demchok, Rigzin Tangayhas asked the Government of India to

pay serious attention towards the developments. Nawang Norbu,development of remote areas in Ladakh Councillor Nyuma Constituency alsobordering China. Demchok is a place shows his resentments against thelocated near the Line of Actual Control, Government of India for neglecting theabout 300 kms away from Leh, where border areas and accuse local leaders ofChinese army has recently objected and Leh for ignoring border areas in terms ofstopped the construction of roads in allocating due share of funds under deployed on the border often don't wantDemchok inside the Indian border under BADP. He told Epilogue that every day the locals to inform the Government ofNREGA. China is grapping India land small by India about this gradual incursion by the

Nambarder has pointed out that small but the Indian security forces Chinese. The grass lands that belongedfunds provided under Border Area

Development Program (BADP) by the

Government of India have been often

utilized in places far from the deserving

border areas. Whereas people of

Demchok have over the few years

observed that the Chinese Government

created lots of infrastructure along the

border across the border. Urging upon

the Government of India to develop the

border areas, in the representation he

warns, If the Government of India has

no will for the development of its own

areas then we have no point of

remaining integrated with India, as we

did our best in 1962 war with China and

still keeping the Indian soil untouched

by Chinese army but we often fail to

receive our bas ic needs and

Chinese CattleGrazing Ladakhi Grass

With civil administration and Army divided over what is China doing in Ladakh's last village, the local

village headman has written to the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh reminding him of Demchok's

patriotism of 1962 and Indian indifference there after

The grass lands that belonged to the

Indian nomads of Changthang for

centuries have been used by the

Chinese shepherds in the recent times

Demchok Village Headman'sLetter to Prime Minister

LADAKH SPECIAL 16


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to the Indian nomads of Changthang for

centuries have been used by the

Chinese shepherds in the recent times,

he says. Regretting the negligence of

the Government of India, the

disgruntled councilor says that it is now

a question for them whether to remain

integrated or not if the presence stateof af fa i r s with secur i ty and

development activities is continued by

the Government of India with these

boder areas despite the fact that recruitment and other with theLadakhi nomads have guarded the recruitments in other centre and stateIndian Border for decades from Chinese government services for the youth fromincursion. these border areas. In a similar

The Nambarder Demchok in his representation to the Chief Executiverepresentation puts on record that Office, LAHDC, Leh, referring to a Govt.funds for some works executed under order No. 1026 GD of 1986; dated 6-07-NREGA in the year 2008 were yet to be 1988, Gurmet Dorjay, presidentreleased and also regretted that Changthang Youth Welfare Associationrecently the construction of a road for Nyoma Block and former Councillor hasDemchok village under NREGA had to be appealed to the authorities in thestopped due to the objection raised by district to give due preference toChinese army. The inhabitants of candidates from border areas during theDemchok village are educationally and selection of teachers which is scheduledfinancially backward, there must be for February this year.reservat ion of seats in army - Tsewang Rigzin


The Nambarder Demchok in his

representation puts on record that

funds for some works executed under

NREGA in the year 2008 were yet to be

released and also regretted that

recently the construction of a road for

Demchok village under NREGA had to bestopped due to the objection raised by

Chinese army.

VIDHYA RAMASUBBAN

Iqbal as an

Advocateof disabled

qbal has been a disabled people's advo-

cate for the last eight years. In 2007,

he started a disabled people's move-Iment, called People's Action Group for

Inclusion and Rights (PAGIR).In all these

years, Mr. Iqbal has worked actively topromote an environment that is positive

towards disabled persons and is condu-

cive for their inclusion, be it education,

employment or in society. He has done

this through various door to door to cam-

paigns in villages; radio and television

programmes; and lobbying with leaders

at the village and the district level.

A good education forms the basis for

future livelihoods and a successful life.

While the government of India has many

schemes to ensure equal employment

opportunities for persons with disabili-ties, these are unfortunately not benefi-

cial to disabled persons in Leh. The main

problem was that disabled persons in

Ladakh do not qualify for even the most

basic jobs or for any of the other higher

skilled jobs. Most of the disabled people

here are uneducated, and there are no

vocational training options to fill this gap.

Mr. Iqbal had the foresight to realise the

importance of improving access to quality

education for disabled children and has

been campaigning with the local adminis-

tration for the same.Mr. Iqbal has been working towards

implementation of the Persons with Dis-

ability Act in the district. He has been

advocating with the government on issues

of inclusive education, physical access,

health and employment.

He has also been working to create

Reportage

LADAKH SPECIAL17


20/64


the image of disabled persons as 'contributors' rather than mere 'receiv-

ers'. An example of this is the waste management programme of PAGIR,

called Jungwa Shrungskyob. The objective of this programme is primar-

ily to promote livelihoods for disabled and other marginalised people,

while addressing this in a socially responsible manner.

In the year 2005, he presented to the Ladakh Autonomous Hill

Development Council and the district administration, the status of dis-

ability in the region and also proposed policy recommendations. Today,

this is Leh district's official policy on disability. He has developed himself

to be a self advocate to fight for the rights of disabled people and has led

protests and represented disabled persons in the district to promote

equality in society. Due to his constant and unrelenting advocacy for theneeds and rights of disabled persons in Ladakh he is considered as an

opinion leader in Leh and has won an immense amount of respect from

his villagers who come to him for advice n various issues. Today Mr. Iqbal

is considered as the leading voice of disabled persons' issues and is

invited by the local government as well as outside resource institutions

for policy and other meetings for his valuable inputs.

M. Iqbal firmly believes in economic development of people with

disability. He believes that without this, empowerment has limitations.

He is a visionary, would educate and inspire people with all disabling con-

ditions about self reliance including civil and political rights.

In a place like Ladakh, for the first time an initiative to work with

people with disabilities was undertaken. The circumstances are difficult

(nature's kindness/unkindness) and the processes chosen were verymuch community based, respecting individual autonomy. Md. Iqbal

ceased this opportunity to bring out potential of individual and groups of

people with disabilities. The movement created has been moving from

strength to strength. The spirit with which he himself and the team met

challenges like financial constraints, and other adverse conditions are

heartening. He found an opportunity in adversity to build the move-

ment. He is a true role model

For CM's Attention

Sh. Omar Abdullah,

The Hon'ble Chief MinisterGovernment of Jammu & Kashmir, Jammu.Sub: Creation of a nominated post for a disabled person in the LadakhAutonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Leh.Dear Sir

Greetings and happy new year from Leh-Ladakh!I am writing to you from the People's Action Group for Inclusion and

Rights (PAGIR), based in Leh- Ladakh, initiated by disabled persons andfamilies of disabled persons.

We are a rights movement working to create a society that is inclusiveand free of prejudice. We believe that it is a matter of right that disabled per-sons should be a part of mainstream society and access opportunities thatexist for other non-disabled citizens. Our focus is therefore not to create spe-cialized services for disabled persons that are potentially isolating in nature.Instead, we work with government systems, political institutions, NGOs andother community structures to create an environment that ensures inclusion

of disabled persons in the mainstream.Leh district has 3,000 persons with disabilities according to Census

2001. Over the last nine years, since the disability movement began in Leh,one significant achievement has been the making of a district-specific dis-ability policy. While this is a landmark achievement, the implementation ofthis is seriously wanting as is for other policies. Today, therefore, these 3,000disabled people are largely invisible.

India has ratified the UN Convention on Rights of Persons withDisabilities (UNCRPD) and by this our government has a legal obligation to

promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities. However, in Leh,so far, the onus of mainstreaming disability has rested on disabled activists.Unless there is an equal force from the policy makers, disabled people willremain in the backyard of development for a long time to come. Even thoughdisabled people are equal citizens, disability has not become an agenda ofthe politicians and is still seen as a 'minority' problem. Yet, 3,000 is a signifi-cant number and if multiplied by the number of family members who aredirectly affected by disability, the numbers would be about 18,000.

Sir, our appeal this disability day has a significant relevance to theabove issues.

We appeal to you that the LAHDC allocates an additional nominatedseat for a disabled person in the council. Currently there are 4 such nomi-nated posts.

To us, this is the only way that the disability agenda will be heard and beincorporated into the mainstream.

We disabled persons do not see this as reservation. We do not want adisabled person to simply 'represent' the council for the sake of projectingdisability in the mainstream. Ours is a question of a) addressing disability asa development issue, b) ensuring equitable opportunities in social, eco-nomic, cultural and political spheres and ultimately c) ensuring that disabled

persons too reach their highest potential.We think that disabled politicians will be more committed to this as they

have much more stakes on the issue - just as it makes sense for women tohold positions pertaining to their needs and rights!

We thus appeal to the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir anominated seat for a disabled person is created in the LAHDC. An affirma-tive action to this effect will ensure the right for persons with disabilities to

participate in political and public life on an equal basis with others, as out-

lined in the UNCPRD.This will also be a trend setter in the country for other states to follow.With the forthcoming LAHDC elections in Sept 2010, the process needs to

begin now and therefore, the timing is crucial.

With regardsSD/-Mohammed IqbalPresident, People's Action Group for Inclusion and Rights (PAGIR),Leh Ladakh

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LADAKH SPECIAL 18


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e are a rights movement working to cre- talents equally with others in society-providingate a society that is inclusive and free of training, linking artistes with other organiza-Wprejudice. We believe that it is a matter of tions and artistes are some ways in which we do

right that disabled persons should be a part of thisthe mainstream society and access opportuni- PAGIR BUSINESSESties that exist for other non-disabled persons. In addressing livelihood for disabled per-

Our focus is therefore to work with gov- sons, it is common place to focus on charityernment systems, NGOs and other community and to address only the 'behavioral' issues of dis-structures to create an environment that abled people.ensures inclusion of disabled persons in main- In PAGIR's business enterprises, we notstream society. Conversely, we do not create or only think that the charity model will not beadvocate for specialized services that are sustainable, we also firmly believe that dis-potentially isolating in nature. abled people are capable and have a right to

Our work involves mobilizing people and participate in economic development. Weadvocating a) to implement government poli- therefore promote disabled persons as activecies and to ensure that services reach disabled contributors rather than as mere objects ofpeople b) to create mass awareness amongst charity, thus breaking traditional stereotypes.people regarding rights issues c) to promote dis- Jungwa Shrungskyob (protection of the fourabled people's participation in the social and elements- earth, water, fie, air)political processes of the region d) to empower Jungwa Shrungskyob (JS) is a businessdisabled people economically, so that they con- enterprise led by disabled people. The enter-tribute to the economic development of the prise focuses on a huge environmental concernregion. - garbage. Jungwa Shrungskyob engages dis-

Set up in March 2007, most of our mem- abled artistes, who turn waste to craft andbers are disabled or have family members who other useful products. Through JS, we are sureare disabled. we will contribute in reducing carbon emis-ADVOCACY sions in a huge way.

For disabled persons to achieve their high- In JS, we hope to engage at least 200 dis-est potential, we attempt at removing barriers abled people in the long run. Besides this, the both attitudinal and physical that exist in entire community will benefit from the aware-society. Alongside, we work towards building ness drives that we will conduct on wastethe individual capacities of disabled people. issues.

In the long run, we hope to see disabled Our focus here is on two aspects: a)persons hold leadership positions; employed in Reducing waste : eg, producing paper and clotha variety of jobs; exhibit their skills in art, cul- bags, so that poly bags are minimized and b)ture, sport.. Reusing and recycling waste: eg, producing

Promoting leadership is an important craft and other useful items so that they areaspect of our movement- we do this by provid- not burnt, buried or dumped in landfills.ing training and information and by simply cre- TOURISMating opportunities for disabled people to Enabling disabled tourists to visit Ladakh

lead. is an enterprise that we are soon to launch.Advocating with the government on needs Though this we are attempting to make tour-

and rights of disabled people is our other focus- ism accessible to all. We will develop spe-holding meetings with government officials, cial itineraries that will cater to needs ofsending appeals and memorandums, accessing disabled people, make available equipmentthe law are some ways in which we do this. like wheel chairs, portable toilets, ramps

Promoting special skills so that they have and provide helpers to assist those whothe opportunity to compete and display their might need them. - Vidhya Ramasubban


PAGIR- In Service of Ladakh LAHDC

askedto workoutpolicy onculture

he Ladakh Cultural

TForum (LCF) has

urged the Ladakh Auton-

omous Hill Development

Hill Council (LAHDC) Leh

formulate some con-

crete policies to pre-

serve Ladakh's unique

and rich cultural heri-

tage. Expressing con-

cerns over what it called

the sorry state of affairs

in the absence of any pol-

icy in the developmental

plan of the Hill Council to

promote and preserve

Ladakh's cultural heri-

tage, the forum has pro-

posed some points to be

adopted as policies of

the Hill Council by pass-

ing a unanimous resolu-

tion in the LAHDC Gen-

eral Council scheduled to

be held from February 22

for three days.

It was a moment ofgreat joy and respite

when, after a sustained

struggle, the LAHDC, Leh

was finally granted in

1995 on the ground of

Ladakh's distinct cultural

identity. It has been 15

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LADAKH SPECIAL19


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years now since LAHDC to Ladakh. If we introspect for

a while, we may realize that nothing concrete has

been done in terms of formulating policies by the Hill

Council in the last 15 years to keep the cultural iden-

tity of the region alive, a letter addressed to the

Chairman of the LAHDC by this forum reads.

LCF, in its proposal, suggested that among the

four Executive Councilors, one should be exclusively

for the promotion and preservation of Ladakhi cul-

tural values and identity. Therefore, this Executive

Councilor should be called the Executive Councilor

for Arts & Culture who, in consultation with eminent

scholars and personalities of Ladakh, could formu-

late an exclusive plan for the promotion of Ladakhi

culture.

Secondly, LCF has proposed that LAHDC shouldidentify a line department as the 'executing agency'

for carrying out the policies and programs of LAHDC

for the promotion and preservation of the distinct

cultural heritage of Ladakh.

The district plan has sector called 'Arts & Cul-

ture' with an allocation of mere rupees 8 to 10 lakh.

But even this amount is often used as an untied grant

whenever some money is needed. LCF has asked the

authorities of the Hill Council to enhance the alloca-

tion of funds under 'Arts & Culture' sector at least up

to rupees one crore annually to effectively imple-

ment the programs and policies concerning the pro-

motion and preservation of cultural heritage ofLadakh.

LCF has also appealed to all Ladakhi public rep-

resentatives including the Councilors of the LAHDC

to dress in Ladakhi traditional Gonchha on important

occasions like the LAHDC General Council Meetings,

Republic Days, Independence Days and other impor-

tant occasions to uphold the sanctity of Ladakhi tra-

ditions. The Forum has proposed that the Hill Coun-

cil should honour individuals and associations who

have made a difference by contributing significantly

in promotion and preservation of Ladakhi Arts & Cul-

ture. The Ladakh Cultural Form Leh was formed and

registered as a society in the year 1979 to by a group

of eminent scholars of Leh to encourage and pro-

mote arts, culture and literature among Ladakhis.

The forum has organized numerous conferences and

seminars, and brought out several publications

including a magazine called 'The Voice of Himalaya'.

- Tsewang Rigzin


eligious and political leaders of LehRhave expressed deep sorrow over thedemise of Stakna Rinpochey, a spiritual

lama of Ladakh, who passed away on 25

January 2010 at the age of 91 years.

Terming the death of Rinpochey an

irreparable loss to the Ladakhi Society,

Ladakh's leaders inclduing Minister for

Tourism, Nawang Rigzin, Chief Executive

Councilor, LAHDC, Leh, Chering Dorje

have said that Rinpochey had rendered

invaluable religious service to the entire

Buddhist Societies of Leh district,

Zanskar and Lahaul (Himachal Pradesh) as

well as social service to the needy people

through out his life.

Late Stakna Rinpochey, whose real

name was Nawang Tonyot Dorje, was

born to father Padma Dadul and mother

Idzin Wangmo of sGangpa family of

Martselang village in 1920. When he was 3 years of age, the 15th

Karmapa Lama and Skyabgon Staktsang Rinpochey recognized him

as the reincarnation of Stakna Tulk. At the age of 5 years, he was

enthroned as Stakna Rinpochey in Stakna Monastery in Leh in 1924.

When he was 7 years old, Stakna Rinpochey started his religious

and spiritual studies under the guidance of Skyabgon Stantsang

Rinpochey at Hemis Monastery. Late Rinpochey had contributed a

lot in construction of Chokhang Vihara in 1967. He also rendered a

great service to the society as President of Ladakh Buddhist Associ-

ation from 1977 to1986 for 9 years. Late Stakna Rinpochey had

also struggled with other Ladakhi leaders when Schedule Tribe sta-

tus was demanded for Ladakh.

Observing the passing away of Stakna Rinpochey as a big loss

to the Buddhist community, a condolence message issued from theLadakh Buddhist Association Youth Wing said that Rinpochey had

given a l ife time religious service to the entire Buddhist Society par-

ticularly to the poor and needy people. In honour of most departed

revered Spiritual figure of Ladakh, the Ladakh Buddhist Association

in collaboration with Ladakh Gonpa Association and Merchant Associ-

ation observed a half day Bandh in Leh on January 28, 2010.

- Tsewang Rigzin

Ladakh Grieved as

Stakna RinpocheyPasses Away

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Features


here has been an opening up of response to local sensibilities, more in heri tage bui ldings, conserved by

Ladakhi society to meet the tune with what the visitors sought UNESCOTneeds of the tourists who throng Tourists were interested in Int ere sti ngl y eno ugh , thethe region. The benefit is not only in monasteries reflecting local history, influence has not remained restrictedeconomic terms but a deep realization culture, art. A repository of printing to strictly 'tourist' aspects. It has

and appreciation of local art forms, and sculpture, showcasing a unique permeated into the rest of society asdances, food and indeed the heritage of architectural style built atop hills on in well. In schools across Ladakh,this spectacular region. Sometimes, it valleys, these structures were a major children would find nothing on theirneeds another to point out the finer attraction. Alchi, a monastery built in own land and culture in their books. Allpoints of one's own culture. the midst of a village was exceptional the study material in the school was in

For a region which has a unique for its exquisite woodcarving, sculpture Urdu and English, not the language of

history and culture, a geographical and printing. The fascination shown by the people who speak Ladakhi.

location that has prevented any the tourists was infectious and also Examples given in these books were

significant interaction between the rest lucrative for locals who were part of the from cultures and symbols from other

of the country, Ladakh has evolved a booming tourism industry. A revisiting parts of India and even other countries,

rich culture and tradition. It is difficult of their own culture and history began leaving the Ladakhi child alienated from

to understand however that in more to happen and a pride in their heritage. his/her own study materials and in a

recent times, local Ladakhis have sense from the very purpose ofA change also driven by the needs

undervalued this. The first outside education. Strangely if a Ladkahi childof the tourism industry. Almost everyinfluence in this highly sensitive saw a picture related to life here,monastery in Ladakh celebrates astrategic zone region was clearly the he/she would get very surprised andfestival once a year. The Hemis festivalAr my wh ic h in so me se n se s show it to all the friends!is famous, catching the tourist season atamalgamated into life there. Then its peak. Festivals anywhere are all But now plenty of books are

came the tourists, both domestic and about celebrating a particular tradition available written by tourists andinternational and suddenly Ladakh was and custom and in Ladakh have led to a visitors. The visitors who connected inthrown open to a whole new world. resurgence of the joy, gaiety and more meaningful ways with the region,

Somewhere in this surge of fervour amongst locals. Conservation its culture became also a source of

influences from beyond, the Ladakhis has taken on a new meaning in this immense lea rning for the local

began to lose their identity, their link resurgence. Old palaces of kings in the Ladakhis. Young people now understand

with what was intrinsically borne of the long history of Ladakh dotted the the value of culture and read about it

land and its historical, cultural landscape, most were neglected and more extensively. It also has somethinginfluences. It happened in small ways. derelict. Today the pages of history to do with the opportunities they now

Traditional jewellery and kitchenware have come alive again, shaking out of its get for using this knowledge. In their

disappeared from shelves of homes and stupor to give a new lease of life to work as mountaineering and culture

shops. Instead items which were in historical buildings. The nine-storied guide for tourists, this fulfils an

vogue outside began to be used. This Leh Palace is now being repaired by important and much sought-after

phase however did not endure and Central government, while the Basgo requirement.

gradually things began to change less in monastery is a part of the world Based on wisdom passed down the

THINLAS CHOROL

THE WINDS OF CHANGE :

Beyond conventional tourism

LADAKH SPECIAL21


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generations, Ladakh has been home to this, troupes from different regions of processed for jam and juice. The local

an indigenous form of medicine called Ladakh put up a colorful, rich fare of handicraft industry has also received a

the 'Amchi' system. Over time, its their unique forms of traditional songs shot in the arm. All over trekking trails,

popularity had waned and support for and dances in the Leh, the capital and small shops selling local craft and

sustaining this ancient form was the hub of tourists. clothes have mushroomed in response

fl

Documents

Epilogue Magazine, February 2010