By Farooq Ganderbali
Jammu and Kashmir is moving forward with renewed confidence, peace, development, tourism, cultural revival and democratic participation. After decades of violence and instability, people across the region increasingly aspire to education, employment, better healthcare, modern infrastructure and a peaceful future.
However, Pakistan’s continued focus on the Kashmir issue, alongside allegations of support for cross-border terrorism, remains a serious concern. Rather than addressing its own political instability, corruption, economic difficulties and internal security challenges, Pakistan’s establishment must answer questions about the continued threat of terrorism in the region.
The November 11 attack on a CRPF checkpoint near Mir Bazar in Kulgam, in which three CRPF personnel were injured, is a disturbing reminder that the threat of terrorism has not disappeared. The attackers opened fire and escaped. Security agencies have launched operations to identify and apprehend those responsible.
This attack deserves the strongest condemnation. Our solidarity is with the injured CRPF personnel and their families. Those responsible must face justice.
Pakistan must understand that the people of Jammu and Kashmir will not allow terrorism, radicalism or propaganda to destroy their future. Kashmir is not a political instrument for Pakistan to divert attention from its own internal problems.
Post-Article 370: A New Chapter of Peace and Development
After the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir entered a new phase of administrative, political and developmental changes. The region has witnessed significant investments in healthcare, education, road connectivity, railway infrastructure, universities, medical colleges, tourism and sports.
The expansion of institutions such as AIIMS Awantipora, improved road networks, educational opportunities and infrastructure projects reflects the growing development agenda.
Tourism is returning as an important source of employment and economic opportunity. Kashmir’s natural beauty, hospitality, cultural heritage and historic Rishi-Sufi traditions are attracting visitors and strengthening national and international engagement.
People want universities, hospitals, industries, sports facilities, employment and opportunities for their children. They want to live with dignity and participate in India’s democratic institutions.
Former Separatist Circles Moving Towards Mainstream Politics
One of the significant political developments in Jammu and Kashmir is the growing discussion around mainstream democratic participation among people associated with families and circles historically linked to separatist politics.
The reported move involving Ruwa Altaf Shah, granddaughter of late Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani and daughter of late separatist leader Altaf Ahmad Shah, has attracted considerable attention.
Reports on November 11–12 indicate that Ruwa Shah is in talks about potentially joining the mainstream political process through the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Her formal joining has not yet been confirmed.
This development reflects an important possibility: political differences can be addressed through democratic institutions, constitutional values and peaceful political participation.
The broader message is that Kashmir’s future should be shaped through democratic engagement rather than separatism, violence or armed struggle. Every citizen has the right to participate in India’s democratic process and contribute to the country’s progress.
Pakistan’s establishment must recognise that the old politics of separatism and violence cannot determine the future of today’s younger generation.
Pakistan Must Answer the People of PoJK
While Pakistan repeatedly raises the Kashmir issue internationally, people in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir have themselves been raising serious demands concerning electricity, affordable food, education, healthcare, employment and accountable governance.
The protests and public movements in PoJK highlight the importance of addressing people’s basic needs. Instead of using Kashmir as a political slogan, Pakistan must listen to the genuine concerns of the people living under its administration.
How can a government claim to represent people’s aspirations while basic demands for affordable electricity, food, education and healthcare remain unresolved?
The people of PoJK deserve dignity, democratic participation, economic opportunities and accountable governance.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: An Attack on Humanity and Tourism
The Pahalgam terrorist attack of April 2025, which claimed innocent tourist lives, was a horrific act of violence against humanity. It damaged families, threatened livelihoods and attempted to spread fear among tourists.
Kashmir’s tourism industry belongs to thousands of families, including hoteliers, transporters, houseboat owners, artisans, guides, traders and young entrepreneurs.
Those who target tourists and innocent civilians are attacking not only individuals but also the economic future of ordinary Kashmiris.
Pakistan must stop any support for terrorism and recognise that violence against innocent people will only deepen suffering and instability.
Kashmir Belongs to Peace, Unity and Brotherhood
The historic Rishi-Sufi tradition, represented by Lal Ded, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani and other spiritual personalities, teaches humanity, compassion, simplicity and brotherhood.
Our youth want sports stadiums, educational institutions, technology, entrepreneurship, tourism and international opportunities. They reject the future of fear, radicalisation, extremism and terrorism.
Voice for Peace and Justice believes that peace, unity, women empowerment, youth participation and a drug-free society are essential for a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
The international community must distinguish between the legitimate aspirations of ordinary people and the activities of terrorist organisations. Lasting peace requires an end to terrorism, respect for human dignity and meaningful democratic engagement.
Pakistan must stop exporting terrorism and spreading propaganda against India. Jammu and Kashmir is not going backwards. Its people want peace, development, democracy and prosperity. No terrorist organisation, foreign-sponsored agenda or propaganda campaign can permanently silence the aspirations of its people.
The message is clear: Kashmir’s future belongs to its youth, education, tourism, democracy, unity and development—not terrorism, separatism, radicalism or extremism.