Author: Rifat Fareed

Omar Abdullah Takes Oath as Chief Minister of Indian-Administered Kashmir When Omar Abdullah became the chief minister of Indian-administered Kashmir, it marked a significant moment for local democracy. Coming from the influential Abdullah family with a legacy in the region, he faces a new landscape following the contentious abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. With his party, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, advocating for the restoration of autonomy, Abdullah now leads a government tasked with navigating uncharted waters. The recent elections saw his party secure a strong mandate, setting the stage for potential change and progress in the region. However,…

Women in Kashmir Sing for Change at Election Rally Shameema Jan, a 45-year-old woman, raises her voice at a campaign rally in southern Kashmir, joining other women in singing traditional songs in support of their preferred candidate ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir regional election. The women hope for a representative, preferably a woman like Iltija Mufti, daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, who can address their everyday concerns such as water scarcity, youth unemployment, and the release of local boys from jails outside Kashmir. The upcoming election in Jammu and Kashmir, following a decade-long hiatus, presents a significant…