HOW EDUCATED KASHMIRIS ARE RESISTING EXTREMISM

In the scenic yet scarred Valley of Kashmir, a powerful counter-narrative is gaining ground—one that defies decades of extremist influence and terror-driven propaganda.

- ZAHOOR AHMAD

Today, the youth of Kashmir, particularly the educated class, are rising with clarity and courage to reject terrorism and stand shoulder to shoulder with the nation. No longer silent, they are leading a revolution of thought and conscience, refusing to let their homeland be hijacked by ideologies of violence.

This shift has become increasingly visible in recent years, and never more so than after the brutal killing of tourists in Pahalgam. In the aftermath, Kashmiris took to the streets—not to protest the government, but to condemn terrorism. Candlelight vigils were held in Anantnag, Srinagar, and even in smaller towns like Baramulla, Kupwara and Pulwama. The message was clear: "Terrorists are not our heroes. Kashmiris want peace."

The engine driving this change is education. Institutions like the University of Kashmir, Central University of Kashmir, and private colleges across the Valley have become hotbeds of progressive thought. Students are diving into disciplines like journalism, law, and political science—not to spread agitation but to understand democracy and be part of its evolution.

There is a new assertiveness among young Kashmiris who are well-read, well-informed, and unafraid to challenge the false narratives that once lured young minds toward terrorism. These students are not only excelling academically but are also forming peace clubs, civil society groups, and digital platforms to voice their stand against extremism.

KASHMIRIS ARE WITH THE NATION