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In a region where silence is enforced, independent voices are an act of resistance. The Azadi Times operates without state backing or corporate influence—powered entirely by readers like you.
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Jammu (Indian-administered Kashmir: With the onset of the Basmati sowing season, farmers residing along the Ceasefire Line in Jammu’s RS Pura and Arnia sectors are facing a severe shortage of agricultural labourers. The shortage follows intense cross-ceasefire hostilities earlier this month that forced hundreds of seasonal workers from across India to flee the region.
According to local estimates, between 1,000 to 1,500 labourers—primarily from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand—left the region after heavy drone attacks and artillery shelling that began on May 8, reportedly in response to India’s “Operation Sindoor”, a series of targeted strikes on militant infrastructure across the Line of Control (LoC) and Pakistan-administered Kashmir (PaK).
Although both India and Pakistan agreed to a ceasefire on May 10, and relative calm has since returned, the agricultural fields remain largely deserted.
“We returned home after spending 10 days away. It felt like a warzone here,” said Garmeet Singh, a farmer from Abdulian village, located less than half a kilometre from the ceasefire line. “Now that peace has returned, we’ve resumed work with help from our own families—but we desperately need labourers back.”
In the absence of the usual migrant workforce, farmers have started sowing Basmati rice themselves, braving soaring temperatures that reach up to 45°C. Families were seen ploughing and transplanting in early morning and late evening hours to avoid the extreme heat.
“There’s peace now, and a ceasefire is holding,” said Skinder Kumar, a farmer from Gulabgarh Basti. “We appeal to all our labourers to come back. Without them, it’s impossible to complete the sowing season on time.”
Farmers in RS Pura and Arnia cultivate over 17,700 hectares of premium Basmati rice, much of which contributes to India’s export economy. The region, however, lies within the shelling range of the ceasefire line, making agriculture not only uncertain but sometimes life-threatening.
Dangers Still Linger
Despite the ceasefire, the aftermath of the shelling remains visible—and dangerous. According to local sources, over 100 unexploded mortar and artillery shells were found buried in the farmlands. Army bomb disposal squads and engineers are currently engaged in clearing operations.
“Unexploded shells have taken lives in the past. But this time, the army is actively clearing the fields, which gives us some relief,” Kumar added.
According to official estimates, approximately 125,000 hectares of agricultural land in the districts of Jammu, Samba, and Kathua fall within range of cross-ceasefire fire. Villages such as Treva, Mahashe-de-Kothe, Gharana, Chandu Chak, and Korotana Kalan—located near the de facto boundary—are gradually returning to farming activities amid cautious optimism.
“Agriculture has resumed, and families are back,” said Avatar Singh, another farmer from Abdulian. “But we are still waiting for the return of the workforce to save the season.”
Operation Sindoor and Escalation
The recent escalation began after the Indian military launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting what were described as terror camps across the LoC in response to an attack in Pahalgam. In retaliation, Pakistan reportedly conducted drone, missile, and artillery attacks between May 8 and 10, killing 27 civilians and injuring more than 70, prompting mass evacuations to government relief camps.
The international community, including human rights monitors, expressed concern over the impact of the military confrontation on civilians, particularly those living near the volatile ceasefire zones.
Srinagar (Indian admonistered Kashmir): In light of the rising heatwave in Jammu and Kashmir, the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has officially revised school timings across the Valley.
According to the new schedule:
Schools within the Srinagar Municipal Limits will now function from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
Schools located outside Srinagar’s municipal boundaries and in other districts of Kashmir will operate from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
The decision comes following growing health concerns raised by parents and school stakeholders over students experiencing dizziness and discomfort during early school hours and morning assemblies.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo, while speaking to reporters, said:
“Due to the discomfort students face under the scorching sun during morning assemblies, we have directed all heads of departments to revise the school timings immediately.”
She added that assemblies should no longer be held under direct sunlight and recommended shaded or indoor venues instead.
Earlier reports indicated that the School Education Department had been working on this change after consultations with local communities.
Srinagar, Indian administered Kashmir: May 22, 2025 Cyber Police Srinagar arrested two individuals, including a terminated academic and a journalist, in connection with the alleged dissemination of “objectionable content” on social media platforms.
The individuals identified as Dr. Abdul Waseem alias Bari, a former professor hailing from Kulgam and currently residing in Natipora, and journalist Asifa Bashir, a resident of Chattabal, were taken into custody earlier today.
The arrests were made under FIR No. 06/2025, and the case has been registered under multiple provisions, including Sections 67 and 67-A of the Information Technology Act, as well as Sections 75(3), 79, and 356(2) of the newly implemented Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
According to official sources, Dr. Waseem has been transferred to Police Station Shergari, whereas Asifa Bashir has been sent to the Women’s Police Station Rambagh for further legal processing and investigation.
Police officials have not publicly disclosed the nature of the “objectionable content” or whether it pertains to journalistic activities, personal expression, or other forms of online commentary. Media and digital rights organizations have yet to issue formal responses, but the arrests are likely to invite scrutiny from civil liberties and press freedom advocates.
The arrests come amid increasing concern and ban over freedom of expression and digital surveillance in the region, particularly following the rollout of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which has replaced sections of the Indian Penal Code. Legal experts have raised questions about the interpretation and potential misuse of these laws in regulating online speech.
While the authorities maintain that the arrests are part of routine cybercrime monitoring, press freedom watchdogs are expected to follow the case closely, especially given the involvement of a working journalist.
Further developments are awaited as the investigation progresses.
Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan-administered Kashmir)— The Gilgit-Baltistan Anti-Terrorism Court today extended the police custody of three prominent leaders of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan (AACGB), including Youth Chairman Asghar Shah, Media Cell Incharge Waheed Hassan, and BNF President Irfan Abbas Azad, until May 28, 2025.
The trio was initially presented before the court on charges linked to their political activism and protests. After an initial four-day physical remand, the court granted further custody to law enforcement authorities.
The decision has sparked strong criticism from human rights activists and civil society groups who view the extended detention as a violation of fundamental human rights and an attempt to suppress peaceful political dissent. Critics say that portraying these leaders as criminals is part of a broader strategy to silence voices demanding justice and political rights in the region.
The Awami Action Committee condemned the court’s ruling and called for the immediate release of Asghar Shah, Waheed Hassan, and Irfan Abbas Azad. The committee also demanded that all fabricated charges against them be dropped.
This case highlights ongoing tensions in Gilgit-Baltistan, where residents continue to raise their voices over issues related to political representation, land rights, and economic opportunities. The detention of these leaders has further ignited calls for respect of political freedoms and an end to state repression.
The Awami Action Committee emphasized that the struggle of Gilgit-Baltistan’s youth and activists is a fight for justice and democratic rights, and urged the authorities to uphold these principles.
The Revolutionary Communist Party of Denmark has strongly condemned the recent arrests of leaders of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan (AACGB) in Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan-administered Kashmir). Expressing full solidarity with these activists, the party acknowledged their peaceful struggle for the rights of the people in the region.
The party statement highlighted that these arrests once again demonstrate the state’s persistent attempts to silence the voices of working-class people, particularly when they unite to demand their fundamental rights. The ongoing struggle of Gilgit-Baltistan’s population for access to water, land, employment, and cultural identity is not only justified but essential.
According to the party, the real perpetrators are the ruling elites responsible for pushing the poor into poverty, inflation, and unemployment. The AACGB leaders have been raising their voices against such injustices, and their detention constitutes political repression.
The Revolutionary Communist Party of Denmark demands:
The immediate release of all detained leaders.
The recognition and granting of full political, economic, and cultural rights to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.
An end to restrictions on peaceful political activism.
The party affirmed its unwavering support for all struggles against imperialism, capitalism, and oppression worldwide, underscoring that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan are not alone. Revolutionaries around the globe stand in solidarity with their fight for justice.
Rio de Janeiro / Muzaffarabad: Glauber Braga member of Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies from the Socialism and Liberty Party (PSOL), has expressed solidarity with the detained leaders of the Awami Action Committee Gilgit Bltistan (AACGB) in Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighting concerns over the repression of peaceful political movements in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
During a recent session of the Brazilian Parliament, the lawmaker emphasized that the suppression of grassroots movements striving for rights is not only a regional issue but a global concern for justice-loving people across the world.
“Attempts to silence voices demanding basic rights—be it land, identity, or autonomy—are deeply troubling. Imprisoning leadership does not end the struggle; it only exposes the urgency of their demands,” the parliamentarian said.
The speech comes amid a growing crackdown on activists and leaders in Gilgit-Baltistan, where citizens have long been advocating for land reforms, local resource control, and greater political recognition. Human rights defenders and civil society organizations have raised alarms about what they call the criminalization of dissent in the mountainous region.
The Brazilian MP called on both the Brazilian government and international human rights bodies to take notice of the situation and ensure that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan are granted their fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, association, and peaceful protest.
“Labeling peaceful protestors as terrorists sets a dangerous precedent,” the lawmaker warned. “It is the duty of every conscious global citizen to challenge this trend.”
Observers note that such rare expressions of international solidarity highlight the growing visibility of struggles in remote or underrepresented regions like Gilgit-Baltistan. The MP’s remarks were widely circulated on social media under hashtags such as #SolidarityForever, #GilgitBaltistan, and #HumanRights.
The development adds to increasing calls for transparency, dialogue, and the protection of civil liberties in Pakistan-administered regions of Kashmir, including both Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). Rights groups have urged Islamabad to engage constructively with local communities rather than resort to mass arrests and intimidation.
Gilgit-Baltistan, a region of strategic importance bordering China and India, has seen waves of public mobilization in recent years over socio-economic grievances and demands for constitutional rights. Despite its administrative ties to Pakistan, the region remains outside the country’s formal constitutional framework, further complicating its political status.
As voices of support emerge from distant corners of the world, many activists hope international pressure will help deter repression and foster a more democratic approach to resolving longstanding issues in the region.
Gilgit / Muzaffarabad, Pakistan-administered Kashmir:A political storm is brewing in the high mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan, a region administered by Pakistan but lacking constitutional status. In a rapidly developing situation, the Awami Action Committee Gilgit Baltistan (AACGB)has warned of mass protests, strikes, and civil disobedience, demanding the immediate release of detained leaders and voicing growing anger over proposed land reforms.
The emergency session held by AACGB in Gilgit on 21 May expressed grave concern over the health of Advocate Ehsan, the committee’s chairman, who remains in state custody and under medical treatment, reportedly without access to legal counsel or family. Human rights observers have described these restrictions as a clear violation of basic civil liberties.
“Ehsan Advocate is not just a political leader; he is a symbol of the collective voice of Gilgit-Baltistan. If any harm comes to him, the state will be held accountable,” read the AAC’s official statement following the meeting.
The AACGB accused authorities of using arrests and coercion to suppress dissent ahead of controversial legislative changes. At the heart of the issue is the proposed Land Reforms Act, which the AAC claims will strip the people of Gilgit-Baltistan of their ancestral lands, mineral rights, and control over natural resources, in favor of outside interests.
The committee further alleges that by jailing key regional leaders, the government seeks to pave the way for the forced implementation of land and resource policies without democratic consent.
The emergency meeting, attended both physically and virtually by AACGB leadership across Gilgit-Baltistan, resolved to escalate public mobilization. Organizing committees have been formed at the district, tehsil, and union council levels, with directives to engage youth, women, and students in a widespread protest movement.
“If these illegal detentions and exploitative laws continue, we will launch a region-wide shutdown, sit-ins, and non-cooperation campaigns,” warned the AAC. “The people of this land will not allow their mountains, rivers, and resources to be auctioned off.”
Regional Ripple Effect: Echoes in Azad Kashmir
The unrest in Gilgit-Baltistan is not occurring in isolation. Political activists and civil society groups in Azad Jammu & Kashmir—also administered by Pakistan—have begun voicing support. Many argue that similar grievances exist on both sides of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including lack of representation, land rights issues, and suppression of dissent.
In Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot, solidarity statements and small-scale gatherings have begun to take shape, highlighting a shared sentiment of marginalization and demanding an end to centralized decision-making without local consultation.
Background: Disputed and Disenfranchised
Both Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu & Kashmir remain disputed territories under Pakistani control, with no constitutional representation in Pakistan’s national parliament. While often presented as separate entities in administrative terms, many within these regions identify shared struggles of political invisibility, economic exploitation, and environmental dispossession.
Independent observers believe the growing wave of public dissent may mark a turning point, especially if inter-regional solidarity continues to build.
As protests intensify, the question remains: Will Islamabad listen—or will another chapter of suppression unfold in these fragile mountain regions?
Jalalabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) – May 22, 2025 A youth-led protest erupted in the Jalalabad area of District Neelum today, as members of the Jalalabad Youth Organization condemned the recent arrests of leaders from the Awami Action Committee Gilgit-Baltistan. The demonstrators described the arrests as unlawful and a deliberate attempt to silence those advocating for the region’s rights and equitable access to resources.
Protesting youth gathered in large numbers, holding placards and chanting slogans in solidarity with the detained leaders. Speaking at the rally, several young activists criticized the use of state power to suppress dissenting voices and said the leaders were targeted not for any crime, but for demanding basic rights and justice for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.
“The arrests are not just illegal; they are morally wrong,” said one of the protest organizers. “These leaders raised their voices not for personal gain, but to speak up for the collective rights of their region. Silencing them is an attack on all those who believe in justice, equality, and democracy.”
The protesters drew attention to the growing trend of criminalizing peaceful political expression in marginalized regions, calling it a broader tactic of oppression used to stifle movements for self-determination and resource control.
According to the Jalalabad Youth Organization, the struggle for rights in Gilgit-Baltistan is not isolated but shared by other underserved communities across Pakistan-administered Kashmir and beyond. “This is not just Gilgit-Baltistan’s fight—it is the fight of students, workers, women, and all ordinary people who are asking for dignity and the right to live freely,” a protestor stated.
The organization demanded the immediate release of all detained leaders and urged the state to end its policy of repression. “These voices cannot be silenced,” the protestors asserted. “They come from hearts that beat for truth, justice, and the collective good.”
The demonstration ended peacefully, but the organizers vowed to continue raising their voices until justice is served and democratic freedoms are respected in the region.
SRINAGAR, Indian-Administered Kashmir – Every spring, the foothills of the Zabarwan Range in Srinagar burst into a riot of colors as Asia’s largest tulip garden, the Srinagar Tulip Garden, opens its gates to visitors from around the world. With over 1.5 million tulip bulbs in bloom, the garden is not just a visual spectacle but also a symbol of Kashmir’s resilience, tourism revival, and horticultural excellence.
Every spring, the garden comes alive, drawing not only tourists from around the world but also shining a spotlight on the region’s horticultural prowess and its cultural and political significance.
The History of Srinagar’s Tulip Garden
The Tulip Garden in Srinagar was inaugurated in 2007 with a vision to promote horticulture and tourism in the Kashmir Valley. The project was launched by the Jammu and Kashmir government as part of an effort to diversify the tourism offerings in the region and showcase Kashmir’s floral heritage. Spread across 12 hectares of land on the gentle slopes of the Zabarwan Range, the garden boasts an impressive collection of tulips from around the world.
Dr. Mohammad Iqbal, a horticulturist in charge of the garden, explains: “Our goal was to create a sustainable, eco-friendly space that could not only attract tourists but also highlight the potential of Kashmir’s horticultural industry. Tulips were chosen due to their vibrant colors and strong cultural ties to the region.”
What started as an experimental project quickly blossomed into the largest tulip garden in Asia, captivating visitors with its vivid colors and pristine setting against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and Dal Lake. Today, it stands as a symbol of Kashmir’s resilience and beauty.
The Tulip Garden: A Feast for the Senses
The Tulip Garden of Srinagar opens its gates to the public every spring, from late March to early April, when the tulips are in full bloom. With over 1.5 million tulips of various colors—ranging from bold reds to delicate pastels—the garden offers a visual spectacle like no other. The tulips are planted in carefully planned rows to ensure that visitors experience a continuous bloom, making the garden an unforgettable sight.
rinagar’s Iconic Tulip Garden Is Reclaiming Kashmir’s Identity—One Bloom at a Time
Each year, the garden welcomes tourists from around the world, who come to witness this ephemeral beauty. As visitors stroll through the rows of tulips, they are treated to the fragrance of flowers and the serene beauty of the landscape. The backdrop of the Zabarwan Range adds an element of grandeur, further enhancing the charm of the experience.
Fahad, a first-time visitor from India, shares his experience: “The sight of so many tulips, stretching as far as the eye can see, is simply awe-inspiring. I had never seen anything like it before. The combination of nature, mountains, and flowers makes the Tulip Garden in Srinagar truly unique.”
The Tulip Festival
The Tulip Festival, held annually from late March to early May, transforms Kashmir into a vibrant springtime spectacle, drawing photographers, nature lovers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. Showcasing over 1.5 million tulips in more than 50 varieties—including Darwin Hybrids, Triumph, and Parrot tulips—the festival features Dutch-inspired landscaping with cascading flower beds set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zabarwan Mountains and Dal Lake.
Visitors can enjoy cultural performances by local artists, savor traditional Kashmiri delicacies like Kahwa and Wazwan snacks at food stalls, and join guided tours that highlight tulip cultivation techniques. “I’ve visited tulip gardens in Amsterdam, but Srinagar’s garden is unique because of its natural backdrop,” says Sophie Laurent, a tourist from France. “The mountains and Dal Lake make it surreal.”
Tulip Garden and Tourism
Beyond its aesthetic beauty, the Tulip Garden plays a vital role in the region’s economy. Kashmir, with its turbulent past, has long faced challenges in maintaining a steady influx of tourists. However, the Tulip Garden has helped to boost Kashmir’s tourism industry, attracting thousands of domestic and international tourists every year.
In 2021, despite ongoing political challenges, the garden saw an impressive number of visitors, signaling a positive shift in tourism patterns in Kashmir. Hotels, restaurants, and local vendors in Srinagar benefit from the annual influx of tourists, contributing to the region’s economic recovery.
Shahnawaz Ahmad, a local tour guide in Srinagar, remarks: “Every year, when the Tulip Garden opens, we see a noticeable increase in tourists. People are eager to witness the blooms, and it gives us a chance to show them the true beauty of Kashmir beyond the usual narrative of conflict.”
Moreover, the garden’s success is not only measured by the number of tourists it attracts, but also by the cultural revival it fosters. The Tulip Garden serves as a symbol of hope and renewal, reminding locals and visitors alike of Kashmir’s enduring beauty despite the challenges it faces.
Ecological and Environmental Significance
The Tulip Garden of Srinagar stands as a model of sustainable horticulture. The garden is managed with a focus on organic farming and conservation practices. Pesticides and harmful chemicals are avoided, and efforts are made to conserve water, a critical resource in the region’s semi-arid climate.
Dr. Iqbal explains: “Our aim is to not only showcase the beauty of the tulips but to also set an example in sustainable farming. We follow organic methods and focus on water conservation. It’s an important lesson in how tourism can coexist with environmental stewardship.”
The garden also contributes to the preservation of the region’s natural ecosystem. The well-maintained green space helps to prevent soil erosion and provides a habitat for local wildlife, including birds and insects.
Additionally, the Tulip Garden has become an educational space where visitors, particularly students, can learn about sustainable agriculture, the importance of biodiversity, and the challenges of climate change.
The Symbolic Power of the Tulip Garden
Beyond its role as a tourist destination and economic driver, the Tulip Garden holds a deeper, symbolic significance for the people of Kashmir. In a region that has seen decades of unrest and political conflict, the blooming tulips offer a message of renewal and peace.
The timing of the garden’s bloom, right as Kashmir begins to emerge from its harsh winters, adds to its symbolism. For many Kashmiris, the tulips represent resilience—the ability to flourish despite adversity.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious and political leader in Kashmir, shares his perspective: “The Tulip Garden is a symbol of Kashmir’s spirit. No matter the hardships we face, the beauty of this garden reminds us that Kashmir, like the tulips, will continue to bloom and shine.”
Srinagar’s Tulip Garden Takes the Global Stage
Over the years, the Tulip Garden in Srinagar has garnered attention from international media outlets, travel blogs, and social media platforms. The garden has been featured in numerous travel guides, with visitors from countries like the United States, Europe, and the Middle East highlighting it as one of Asia’s most beautiful destinations.
The power of social media has played a major role in bringing the garden to the world’s attention. Instagram, YouTube, and travel websites have showcased breathtaking photographs and videos of the tulips, further solidifying Srinagar’s place as a must-visit destination in Asia.
Shaila Gupta, a travel influencer who visited the garden, says: “The Tulip Garden in Srinagar is unlike any other. The sheer scale of it, combined with the majestic backdrop of the Zabarwan mountains, makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s a hidden gem that deserves to be seen by more people from around the world.”
How to Visit Srinagar’s Tulip Garden
To visit Srinagar’s iconic Tulip Garden, plan your trip between late March and mid-April, which is the peak blooming season. The garden is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM. Entry fees are $0.50 for locals, $1 for local tourists, and $2 for foreign visitors. While you’re there, don’t miss nearby attractions like the serene Dal Lake, the historic Shalimar Bagh, and the beautifully landscaped Nishat Garden—all located within a short distance of the tulip garden, making for a perfect springtime day out in Kashmir.
Challenges and Opportunities for the Future
While the Tulip Garden has been a major success, there are challenges that remain. Climate change poses a significant threat to the timing and quality of the blooms, and political instability in the region continues to impact tourism.
However, local authorities and horticulturists remain optimistic that the garden can continue to thrive. With proper planning, climate-resilient practices, and increased global awareness, the Tulip Garden has the potential to grow into an even greater symbol of Kashmir’s natural beauty.
Dr. Iqbal remains hopeful: “Challenges exist, but the Tulip Garden has shown that with determination, we can create a space that not only survives but thrives. We are committed to ensuring that the garden remains a sustainable, vibrant part of Kashmir’s landscape.”
The Tulip Garden of Srinagar, Asia’s largest, is more than just a garden. It is a celebration of Kashmir’s resilience, beauty, and cultural heritage. In a world that often sees the region through a lens of conflict, the Tulip Garden stands as a reminder of nature’s ability to heal and inspire.
As Srinagar prepares to welcome another blooming season, the Tulip Garden remains a beacon of hope, not only for Kashmir but for the world, offering a symbol of renewal, peace, and the enduring spirit of the people of Kashmir.
Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir — Maqbool Bhat, a name that echoes in the political discourse of Kashmir, remains one of the most significant figures in the region’s modern history. His death and the unresolved matter of his remains have come to symbolize the longstanding struggles and human costs of the Kashmir conflict.
Maqbool Bhat, born in 1938 in Trehgam, a village in Kupwara district, emerged as a leading advocate for Kashmir’s self-determination. In the early 1970s, Bhat co-founded the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), an organization pushing for an independent Kashmir, free from both Indian and Pakistani control. His radical vision earned him both staunch followers and fierce adversaries, as well as multiple arrests by Indian authorities.
In 1984, after being convicted of the killing of an intelligence officer, Bhat was executed in Tihar Jail, New Delhi. His death sparked widespread protests across Kashmir and among the Kashmiri diaspora. Bhat became a martyr for many, a symbol of resistance against perceived political repression by the Indian state.
However, it is not only the execution itself that continues to haunt Kashmir. What followed has only deepened the emotional and political wound: Indian authorities decided not to return Bhat’s body to his family, instead burying it in Tihar Jail.
A Demand for Dignity in Death
Since that fateful day in 1984, Maqbool Bhat’s family, his political associates, and numerous civil society groups have tirelessly campaigned for the repatriation of his remains. His brother, Zahoor Ahmad Bhat, has repeatedly submitted formal requests to the Indian government, but all have been denied without detailed justification. In 2004, Zahoor and other family members took their fight to the Indian courts, but their efforts also bore no fruit.
For many in Kashmir, the refusal to return Bhat’s body represents more than just a denial of personal closure; it is seen as a denial of dignity—one that symbolizes the ongoing suppression of Kashmiri identity and their political struggle.
“Returning his body isn’t just a matter of family closure,” Zahoor Ahmad Bhat said in an interview with BBC News. “It’s a matter of Kashmiri dignity. It’s about recognizing our pain and our struggle. Maqbool Bhat is not just my brother; he is a symbol of our fight for self-determination.”
A Symbol of Struggle
The issue of Maqbool Bhat’s remains has transcended the personal. It has become a political symbol deeply intertwined with Kashmir’s broader struggle for autonomy. For many, the refusal to hand over Bhat’s body is viewed as an ongoing act of control, an assertion of Indian authority over Kashmir that many believe has continued for decades.
The Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), the organization Bhat co-founded, has led the charge for his body’s return. Yasin Malik, the imprisoned JKLF leader, has repeatedly raised the issue in both public speeches and official statements. Speaking to BBC from prison in 2019, Malik described the denial of Bhat’s remains as “an extension of the political repression that Kashmiris face every day.”
This sentiment is shared by many ordinary Kashmiris. In Trehgam, Bhat’s ancestral village, people have organized annual protests and vigils demanding the return of his remains. “Maqbool Bhat was not just a revolutionary figure; he was our voice, our hope for an independent future. The refusal to give his body back is a denial of that hope,” said one local resident, requesting anonymity.
International Perspective: A Call for Justice
Human rights organizations have also weighed in on the issue. Amnesty International has emphasized the ethical obligation of states to ensure that families can bury their dead with dignity, regardless of the political context. The Geneva Conventions, which outline the protections of the dead in conflict zones, assert that even in the most sensitive political cases, remains must be treated with respect.
Victoria Schofield, a scholar on Kashmir, has noted the symbolic significance of Bhat’s unreturned body in her work. “The refusal to return Maqbool Bhat’s remains,” Schofield wrote, “is not merely a domestic issue for India; it is a symbol of the unresolved grievances of the Kashmiri people, and a focal point for the larger political conflict in the region.”
Despite these calls, Indian authorities have remained firm in their stance. They cite “security concerns” and the potential for large-scale unrest as reasons for withholding Bhat’s body. A senior government official, speaking anonymously, told BBC: “The return of Bhat’s body could lead to significant unrest. Given the sensitive nature of the issue, we must be cautious in handling it.”
However, critics argue that such concerns are not insurmountable. “With dialogue and careful planning, the situation can be handled peacefully,” said Khurram Parvez, a prominent Kashmiri human rights activist.
Dignity, Justice, and Closure
The question of Maqbool Bhat’s remains is not just about closure for a family; it is about historical justice, dignity, and a path toward reconciliation. For many Kashmiris, returning his body would be a symbolic acknowledgment of his place in the region’s history. It would also serve as a small but significant step toward healing the deep wounds of a conflict that has seen generations endure suffering and loss.
“Returning his body would not solve the larger political issues of Kashmir, but it would send a message of compassion and recognition,” said Dr. Shabir Choudhary, a political analyst based in London. “It would acknowledge the deep pain of the people here, and it would be a step towards reconciliation.”
The ongoing demand for Maqbool Bhat’s body reflects the larger themes of dignity, human rights, and political self-determination that continue to shape the discourse surrounding Kashmir. The failure to address this issue has only prolonged the sense of injustice that many in the region feel.
A Missed Opportunity for Dialogue?
Some have argued that the refusal to return Bhat’s body is a missed opportunity for India to demonstrate a willingness for dialogue with Kashmiris. For many, returning Maqbool Bhat’s body would not only be a gesture of goodwill but could also foster trust in the peace process, which has long been stalled.
“Sometimes, a small act of humanity can be the first step toward something much bigger,” Dr. Choudhary added. “Returning Maqbool Bhat’s body could signal a change in India’s approach to Kashmir—one that respects its people’s dignity and their struggle for self-determination.”
As the decades go by, the story of Maqbool Bhat and the unanswered demand for his body remains a poignant reminder of the unresolved grievances and the human toll of the Kashmir conflict. While the return of his remains may not resolve the larger political issues, it holds the potential to offer something invaluable: dignity, closure, and perhaps a sliver of hope for a region long engulfed in pain.
The question remains: How long can dignity be delayed in Kashmir?
