Abrogation of Article 370 and Kashmiriyat

Introduction

• Panelists introduced: Mr. Gauhar Gilani, Mr. Anand Ratan, Syed Salah Chishti, Vivek Agnihotri.
• Moderator emphasizes the importance of time as the session is scheduled to end at 6:45 PM.

Opening Remarks by Panelists

Syed Salah Chishti

• Emphasizes the cultural and spiritual legacy of Kashmir, not just the last 70 years.
• Discusses syncretism in Kashmir, the coexistence of Shaivite and Sufi traditions.
• Highlights the shared cultural practices between Hindus and Muslims in Kashmir.

Jamia Sir (MP from Ladakh)

• Describes Ladakh as an amazing destination with rich resources.
• Discusses the impact of the abrogation of Article 370 on Ladakh, bringing it into the spotlight.

Vivek Agnihotri

• Reflects on the current state of Kashmir and the lack of cultural diversity.
• Shares an anecdote illustrating the limited knowledge of local children about Hindu identity.
• Critiques the absence of artistic and cultural output in Kashmir since the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s.

Anand Ratan

• Questions the notion of Kashmiris as special; argues they are as special as any other Indian.
• Critiques those opposing the abrogation of Article 370, highlighting how rights of marginalized groups have been overlooked.
• Discusses the legal and ethical implications of Kashmir's governance.

Discussion Points

Collective Cultural Responsibility

• Gohar responds to Anand's critique, emphasizing the continuity of Kashmir's cultural diversity.
• Discusses the importance of local narratives in media coverage of Kashmir.

Media Coverage and Civil Liberties

• Gohar critiques the media lockdown in Kashmir and the silencing of local journalists.
• The panel discusses the implications of criminalizing dissenting opinions in Kashmir.

Impact of Article 370's Abrogation

• Anand and Vivek discuss the draconian application of laws post-abrogation.
• The panel reflects on the need for better governance and human rights protections in Kashmir.

Audience Engagement

• Questions from the audience focus on the historical context of Kashmir and the implications of the abrogation of Article 370.
• Panelists respond to questions about the representation of Kashmiri culture and the historical narratives being formed.

Conclusion

• Panelists stress the importance of understanding Kashmir's complex history and the need for inclusive dialogue.
• Emphasis on the collective responsibility to ensure the rights and dignity of all Kashmiris.