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Assassination of Mirwaiz Farooq and Jagmohan’s Ouster

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(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)

Thirty-four years ago, this day, on May 21, 1990, three young men visited the home of Kashmir’s head priest and prominent political leader, Mirwaiz Mohammad Farooq, in Srinagar. They fatally shot Mirwaiz Farooq and fled the scene. The assassination was orchestrated by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which had labelled Mirwaiz as an “Indian Agent.”
The murder sent shockwaves through Kashmir. Despite the peak support for the separatist movement at the time, there was a potential for a public backlash against armed militants suspected to be the culprits. However, instead of turning against the separatists, public anger was directed at the government. During a funeral procession from Shere-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences to Mirwaiz’s home, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) fired upon the crowd near Hawal in Old City, resulting in at least 60 deaths and numerous injuries. This tragic event prompted the Central Government to recall Governor Jagmohan, against whom there was already significant propaganda fuelled by Pakistan and its sympathizers since he took office in January 1990.

Governor Jagmohan’s Account

In his book, “My Frozen Turbulence in Kashmir,” Jagmohan defends his actions while dealing with Kashmir terrorism, stating that the calls for his ouster linking him to the incident were unjustified. He criticized his police chief J.S. Saxena and Additional DGP M.N. Sabharwal, arguing that a strong police presence could have prevented the killings of mourners. Jagmohan claimed that Sabharwal’s failure to accompany the procession or send adequate police protection was highly irresponsible, contributing to the tragedy.

Aftermath and Investigation

The week following the assassination was fraught with tension. Despite Jagmohan recommending handing over the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), propaganda against him persisted, even in the national media. A notable instance was a Times of India report on May 25, 1990, which suggested Jagmohan was asked to step down, a claim he strongly refuted.
While most Kashmiri leaders and terrorist organizations supported Jagmohan’s removal, he retained substantial backing from the Jammu division, which observed a complete bandh when news of his ouster spread and people also prayed for his welfare at Holy town of Katra.
The CBI investigation revealed that the assassination was planned by Hizbul Mujahideen commanders Abdullah Bangroo and Rehman Shigan, and executed by operatives Ayub Dar, Javed Bhat, and Zahoor Bhat. Bangroo and Shigan were later killed in encounters with security forces, and Dar was sentenced to life imprisonment. After 33 years’ of assassination, on May 16, 2023, police arrested the remaining two operatives, Javed Ahmad Bhat and Zahoor Ahmad Bhat.

Mirwaiz Farooq: The Leader and His Legacy

Mirwaiz Farooq in the Studios of Radio Kashmir, Srinagar
Mirwaiz Moulvi Mohammad Farooq Shah led the Awami Action Committee (AAC), a political party in Kashmir opposed to the dominant National Conference. Known for his stately presence and respected as a religious figure, Mirwaiz Farooq often gave talks on Radio Kashmir Srinagar. Journalist Aasha Khosa, in one of her write-ups, highlights his deep religious knowledge and the respect he commanded within the community. His family was known for its charitable acts, including helping those affected by a massive fire in downtown Srinagar.
Mirwaiz Farooq’s legacy was inherited by his 17-year-old son, Omar Farooq, who was nominated as his successor soon after former’s assassination.  Omar Farooq was formally installed as new Mirwaiz of Kashmir on June 1, 1990.
Concerned for his safety, his mother  had sent him to Egypt for religious studies. Today, Mirwaiz Omar Farooq, known for his moderate views, continues to be a significant figure in Kashmir, despite constant surveillance by ISI and its agents in past.

Controversies and Accusations

Eight years after the assassination, during a political speech, Shia leader Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari  accused former Union Home Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed of being responsible for Mirwaiz Farooq’s death. This claim has been a point of contention and speculation within the political landscape of Kashmir.
The assassination of Mirwaiz Mohammad Farooq remains a pivotal event in Kashmir’s tumultuous history, symbolizing the complex interplay of political, religious, and militant forces in the region.

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Kashmiri Pandit, India in Secret Codes: Unveiling Kashmir Conspiracy

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Kashmiri Pandit, India in Secret Codes: Unveiling Kashmir Conspiracy
( Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)

It was an era of different “End-to-End Encryption’’ when cheat codes were devised to carry out sabotage and further anti-India narrative in Kashmir.
The story dates back to the Kashmir Conspiracy, the mention of which has been ably and diligently made by B N Mullik, an Indian civil servant, spymaster and the second Director of the Intelligence Bureau of India.

In his Book on Kashmir, published by Allied Publishers in April 1971, B N Mullik, besides giving other accounts, mentions how Pakistani intelligence agencies through their sympathizers were using secret codes to pass on information.

  In the absence of WhatsApp, e-mail, or any other digital medium, they were using letters, stuffed with secret messages, mostly in Urdu, to carry forward their nefarious designs.

 Kashmiri Pandit was a “ Saudgar’’

 Mullik, who smashed this network, found interesting disclosures that he has carried in the Book.  As per the Book, Kashmiri Pandit in secret code language was addressed as “Saudagar’’, while “ India’’ was referred to as “ Baramulla’’, `Srinagar’ as “Rampur’’ and “Pakistan’ as “Sopore.’’.’

Pakistani Coded words and deciphered by India

 India’s First Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru was addressed as “Jaffar’’.  For saboteurs,   “ Kashmir’’ was “ Talab’’, while “ Azad Kashmir’’ (PoK) was referred to as “ Chaudhari Lucknow’’.

Mullik’s book mentions about 105 such names, which were in use but were deciphered by Indian Intelligence Agencies to smash the Pakistani Plan in the Kashmir Conspiracy Case.

Kashmir Rechords is reproducing some of such ‘’Cheat Codes’’ here.

The Untold Tragedy: Underreported Killings in Kashmir!

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(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)
In the tumultuous days of 1990, amidst the echoes of political unrest and communal tensions, Kashmir bore witness to a series of forgotten tragedies, overshadowed by the broader narrative of conflict. These unreported killings, etched in the annals of history, serve as poignant reminders of the human cost of strife and the silent suffering endured by ordinary Kashmiris.
March 23, 1990, dawned with yet another sombre warning in Srinagar. Anti-India and anti-Kashmiri Pandit demonstrations continued to fill the streets, punctuated by ominous threats against the minority community. Yet, amidst the turmoil, a flicker of hope emerged as local Imams extended assurances of safety to the Kashmiri Pandits, urging their return to the valley. However, these promises proved hollow as the day unfolded. B.L. Karihaloo, a sweet shop employee, became the instant victim. He was shot at in the Bagat Kanipora area.
March 23, 1990… Local Imams appeal Kashmiri Pandits to return!
On the day of local Imams’ appeal, B L Karihaloo is shot at.
The following days bore witness to a relentless wave of violence. Dr. Pushkar Nath, an officer of the J&K Agriculture Department, fell prey to terrorists’ bullets in Bijbehara on March 22, 1990. Ashok Kumar, a resident of Safa Kadal, met a similar fate on March 26, 1990.
Agriculture Department Employee, Dr Pushar Nath is shot dead on March 22, 1990
March 26, 1990… Ashok Kumar of Safa Kadal is killed.
April 1990 brought no respite. On April 23, 1990, Sunil Kumar Kotru was killed in Rainawari locality while as a body of a J&K Police Constable, Dalip Singh was recovered from Shopian area.
April 23, 1990.. Victims are Sunil Kumar Kotru and Constable Dalip Singh!
Senseless Blood Shed…April 26, 1990—-Ravinder Kumar, Bansi Lal Saproo, Mohd Ramzan, Ghulam Mohammad, Abdul Rehman and Ghulam Rasool are killed
Similarly, on April 26, 1990, six innocent lives were cruelly snuffed out in various parts of the valley. Among them were Ravinder Kumar, Bansi Lal Saproo, Mohd Ramzan, Ghulam Mohammad, Abdul Rehman, and Ghulam Rasool, each a casualty of senseless bloodshed.
April 30, 1990 marked the demise of Moti Lal Pandita in Kupwara, adding to the growing toll of targeted killings.
April 26, 1990…. Six innocents lose their lives!

 Surge in Atrocities

 The month of May 1990 saw a surge in atrocities, claiming the lives of individuals from diverse backgrounds. On May 3, a revered Gujjar leader, honoured with the Padma Shri, fell victim to assailants’ bullets in Bara Kasi in Tangmarg area of Kashmir. Chuni Lal Shalla, a dedicated Police Inspector, met a similar fate in Langet area near Sopore.
May 6, 1990 unfolded with the tragic discovery of Prof. Kundan Lal Ganjoo and his wife’s bodies in Sopore, alongside the lifeless form of a young girl named Dolly in Karan Nagar. The brutality reached its zenith on May 11, with the ruthless assassination of former National Conference legislator Sheikh Manzoor, a grim testament to the unchecked reign of terror.
May 6, 1990… Gruesome killings of Prof Kundan Lal Ganjoo and his wife.
These names, etched in sorrow, represent but a fraction of the countless lives lost in the crucible of conflict, their stories buried beneath the weight of indifference and silence. As we reflect on these forgotten souls, let us offer prayers for peace and reconciliation, striving to honor their memory amidst the clamour of history. (To be concluded)

His Pictures Were Speaking More Than Words!

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His Pictures Were Speaking More Than Words!

Remembering Ashok Sodhi

                      

  Four decades ago, the concept of photojournalism was new to Jammu. Few photographers, including Afzal Shah, Chander Sunder and Raju Kerni were there in this profession. And that was the era of 1987-88, when Ashok Sodhi had begun to capture different terrestrial and extra-terrestrial events, varied human moods and sufferings, pathos and tragedies, regular and offbeat shots   and would put all these frames efficiently before his readers.

 From a humble beginning in the otherwise glamorous media, Ashok Sodhi rose to the post of Chief Photographer, with the dent of his hardwork and courage to take the challenges and work on new assignments.  It was this very spirit in Ashok Sodhi that finally made him a martyr while on the job!
            Those journalists, who belong to the era of pre-militancy and remained too close to Ashok Sodhi, must be aware of the fact that this photojournalist, whose pictures were speaking more than the words, was a multi-faceted personality. He started his career in journalism as a proofreader and before handling the camera, was reporting crime and even covering hospital beat.
          Ashok Sodhi did not belong to the era of instant and modern digital photography.  During those days, it used to be a labyrinth and arduous exercise to set the focal length and camera apertures and artfully play with light and shade.  He would spend hours together in the dark room at Excelsior’s ground floor to develop and fix the prints before presenting the same to his Editor S D Rohmetra or   Associate Editor O N Koul, who would later provide the best caption to make Sodhi’s pictures newsworthy. He did the same when Arun Sharma or Sanjeev Pargal   were at times assigned the job to write a caption for his imaginative and professional pictures.
      And when digital photography became the order of the day, Ashok Sodhi did not lag behind. He adapted the new technology to remain the front-runner in the race.

  Capturing Kashmiri Pandits’ Sufferings

Ashok Sodhi was definitely a   multi-faceted personality, an artist who performed for different local tale-serials besides taking part in various forms of nukkad shows. A man full of emotions, Sodhi would feel the pinch of the human sufferings. In 1990, when migration of Kashmiri Pandits was at peak, Sodhi would visit every camp to capture the human sufferings. He did it many a time when humanity was in distress. And on May 11, 2008 when he and seven others fell to the bullets of the militants at Samba, it was not in fact the first time that Ashok Sodhi had visited the encounter site. His  former colleagues recall how he  had  earlier also covered half a dozen encounters including those at Vijaypur and Kaluchak and how Sodhi had gone too close into the danger zones in a bid to click the best available  shot.
 Working in the terror zone of Jammu and Kashmir, where encounters and blasts were the norm of the day, Sodhi, like other journalists, lived on the edge. Despite knowing that there was a thin line between life and death, he would always defy the gravity and rush into danger zones and would come out with a professional stuff.  But one such act proved fatal for him!

 Died for a Cause 

Ashok Sodhi was amongst those journalists who did not believe in job-hopping. He was always ready to help young photographers and even reporters who were there to adopt this glamorous profession. During 25 years’ of his commitment towards journalism, Ashok Sodhi mentored a number of photojournalists in Jammu and was darling of every mediaman. His public relations were so strong that he would   rarely miss an event and would even manage the pictures to the satisfaction of his colleagues and readers.  His death has definitely left a void in the media space.
Several years ago, the bullets he sustained, stopped him from further pressing the shutter button.  But   Sodhi’s work will live on to tell the stories in timeless images he captured during his journey as a photojournalist.  Sodhi died for a noble cause and would always be remembered for his bravery and commitment towards his job.

Chander’s Chronicles: Capturing Kashmir’s Soul Through History’s Lens

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Chander’s Chronicles: Capturing Kashmir’s Soul Through History’s Lens
(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)

Meet Chander Mohan Bhat, a native of the picturesque village of Murran nestled within the Pulwama district of Kashmir. For over three decades, Chander Mohan Bhat has served as a beacon of knowledge and insight, contributing extensively to local dailies with his writings that delve deep into the tapestry of Kashmir’s rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse heritage. His words not only shed light on the region’s storied past but also offer glimpses into the daily lives of its inhabitants, painting a vivid picture of the land and its people.

Before the advent of social media, Chander’s literary endeavors primarily found expression in the pages of traditional newspapers, where his articles on Kashmir’s heritage sites, pilgrimage destinations, and the workings of the Department of Posts, where he served as Assistant Director, garnered widespread acclaim. However, with the rise of social media platforms, Chander saw an opportunity to expand his horizons and reach a broader audience.

Kashmiri Pandits’ Oal

Harnessing the power of digital communication, Chander embarked on ambitious projects that would showcase the beauty and diversity of Kashmir in new and innovative ways. One such project, which he has been tirelessly working on for more than two decades, is a mega project “Oal’’—The Nest. Under this Project, he has been documenting history and anecdotes linked with 595  villages of Kashmir where Kashmiri Pandits used to live before the community’s mass migration of 1990.

The Initial Days… When Chander Mohan Bhat started working on Project `Oal’. The news was carried by The Tribune Chandigarh.

Motivated by a deep-rooted desire to preserve his homeland’s cultural and religious heritage, Bhat embarked on this journey of discovery, traversing rugged terrain and braving the uncertainties of a region marked by political turmoil.

As he ventured into the heart of Kashmir’s sacred sites, Chander Mohan Bhat encountered not only the physical remnants of centuries-old shrines but also the spiritual echoes of a bygone era. His encounters with locals, steeped in tradition and folklore, provided him with invaluable insights into the significance of these sites in the collective consciousness of the Kashmiri people. Yet, amidst the beauty and serenity of these hallowed grounds, Bhat also confronted the harsh realities of life in a conflict-ridden region, where tensions simmered beneath the surface, ready to erupt at a moment’s notice.

 Undeterred Despite Challenges

Despite the challenges he faced, Bhat remained undeterred, driven by a sense of duty to preserve the cultural heritage of his homeland for future generations. His meticulous documentation of each temple and shrine, accompanied by high-resolution images capturing their architectural splendor, serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for his craft. Bhat also recorded for posterity the high-resolution images and pictures of the floral wealth of Kashmir besides the assorted documentation of the environment and people inhabiting the places in Kashmir.

 Book on Life & Teachings of Prof Kaul

In addition to his work on Kashmir’s religious heritage, Bhat has also undertaken a deeply personal project centered on the life and teachings of Professor Brij Nath Kaul (May 17, 1942 to January 31, 2020), a revered figure in the Kashmiri spiritual community.

Through painstaking research and interviews with those who knew him best, Bhat has pieced together a compelling portrait of a man whose life was dedicated to the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the service of others. The book,  titled “ Professor Brij Nath Kaul—A Divine Soul ‘’  was released by Swami Gautmanandaji Maharaj, President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission on May 10, 2024, at Ramakrishna Mission, Srinagar, Kashmir.

A Book Releasing Function “Professor Brij Nath Kaul—A Divine Soul’‘ at Ramakrishna Mission, Srinagar, Kashmir on May 10, 2024

  Professor Kaul’s own corpus of spiritual energy bestowed on him by his deeply religious parents kindled the devotional fire in him. Thus began his life’s story which appears to be the stuff of legends and has been told by Chander Mohan Bhat in a simple, lucid, and highly engaging narrative that is surely going to enthuse the readers of the book.

With two more books to his credit—Kashmir Shrines And Temples and Professor Brij Nath Koul - A Divine Soul, Bhat stands on the brink of sharing his passion and knowledge with the world. He has so far authored 18 books which include Murran My Village'', Ocean By Drops'', Mera Kashmir'', Fading Faces'', `` Kapal Mochan, Shopian Kashmir'' etc. Through his words, he hopes to not only educate and enlighten but also to inspire others to embrace the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that defines Kashmiri identity. His Book “Ancient History of Jammu and Kashmir” confirms his researching capability. Through his words, he hopes to not only educate and enlighten but also to inspire others to embrace the rich tapestry of culture and tradition that defines Kashmiri identity.

 While the first volume of ``Kashmir Shrines and Temples” is structured into five distinct sections, each delving into a specific aspect of the region’s religious heritage and cataloged over 600 shrines and temples scattered throughout Kashmir, the author progresses with the editing stage of the second volume of this book with further insights into these sacred locales, deepening their understanding of Kashmir’s profound spiritual legacy.

As he prepares to unveil his latest works shortly, Chander Mohan Bhat remains humbled by the opportunity to share his love for his homeland with the world. For him, social media is equally a tool for preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Kashmir for generations to come.

Zadoo Brothers of Kashmir Who were Closely Associated With Subash Chandra Bose!

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Zadoo Brothers of Kashmir Who were Closely Associated With Subash Chandra Bose!
(Kashmir Rechords Desk)

Two Zadoo Brothers from Anantnag district—Dina Nath and Kanti Chandra, who find their name  incorporated in the category of “ Unsung Heroes’’,   prepared by Government of India  during ``Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’’,  were closely associated with  Netaji Subash Chandra Bose.

 Born in 1916 and 1918, respectively, to Prof. Jagaddhar Zadoo, the elder brother (Dina Nath Zadoo) had worked as the Captain in the Azad Hind Fauj. He fought at Malaysia. He died in 1986 in India.  His younger brother, Kanti Chandra Zadoo was the Personal Secretary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

Dina Nath Zadoo and Kanti Chandra Zadoo

   According to the inputs provided by Ministry of Culture, Kanti Chandra Zadoo is believed to have been on board the same aircraft, which mysteriously crashed in 1945, resulting in the death of both Subhash Chandra Bose and Kanti Chandra. (Although, for many people the death of Netaji has been a cause of disagreement in the history of Indian freedom struggle).

``Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’’ was an initiative of the Government of India to celebrate and commemorate 75 years of independence and  to highlight the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements. Under the same initiative, in June 2023, Centre for Advance Research on Development and Change, in collaboration with Degree College Anantnag had orgainsed a lecture on “ Role of Kashmir in the India Freedom Struggle’’, to remember freedom fighters like Zadoo Brothers.

Noted writer, Avtar Mota in his Blog “Chinar Shade’’ also mentions about Zadoo Brothers and their association with Subash Chandra Bose. “Beyond a three or four references, no research has been done on this aspect at any point of time’’, he regrets.

Prof Jagaddhar Zadoo

 Dina Nath and Kanti Chandra were sons of an illustrious Professor Jagaddhar Zadoo, who was a Sanskrit scholar, and a master of oriental languages. Zadoos originally belonged to Zadipur, a village near Bijbehara, Anantnag in South Kashmir from where the family had migrated to Srinagar at the beginning of the 18th century. Their surname was linked to the village of their origin and remained with them thereafter.

“In 1921, their father joined the Jammu and Kashmir Research Department as head and worked there until 1924. And again from 1928-31, he worked as a professor of Sanskrit in Srinagar where he translated some portions of the Gilgit manuscript discovered in 1931 and brought out critical editions of Nilmat Purana jointly with Prof Kanji Lal.  His works instilled respect for the cultural heritage of the country in the heart and minds of the family members’’. (Source:https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/unsung-heroes-detail.htm?15264)

  Prof Zadoo was a part of the vibrant interface of scholarship between western scholars and Kashmiri Sanskrit scholars. His scholarship elevated him to the level of an excellent researcher and exposed them to International literary circles. He was the first Sanskrit scholar to work with Japanese scholar Momo Motokora on the Shaivite text. His unpublished autobiography in two volumes reveals the nationalistic approach of the Zadoo family.  Prof Jagaddhar Zadoo was the grandson of Pandit Keshav Bhat Zadoo,   the Royal Astrologer of Maharaja Ranbir Singh.

 Another Zadoo from Srinagar

 Pushkar Nath is another Zadoo from Srinagar, Kashmir whose name also figures in the list of Freedom Fighters of “ Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’’ from Jammu and Kashmir.

Born on 15 April 1928 to Pt. Vasudev Zadoo and Smt. Devki Zadoo, Pushkar Nath studied the Science stream subjects for his graduation in Amar Singh College, Srinagar. He was attracted to the Progressive Group that started a Peace Brigade as first line of defence of Kashmir. Led by Pushkar Nath Zadoo, some volunteers went to Handwara to stall the march of invaders and to assist the units in the Handwara-Kupwara-Teetwal region. This area continued to see action until  1948.

Young men like Pushkar Zadoo were deployed to provide logistical support to the Indian forces and assisted in gathering of local information/intelligence. He was deployed on the Teetwal Front, where he died in action in July 1948.

Krishna Misri (Zadoo), who got herself enrolled as a volunteer in the women’s wing of’ National Militia’ set up by the supporters of the National Conference to fight the Invading tribal raiders during 1947, also belonged to Zadoo family.

As most of the members of the Zadoo family were intensely engaged in the freedom struggle and sacrificed their lives for the sake of their nation, hence the Zadoos of Kashmir are remembered as the icons of the freedom struggle.

N.B: (This write-up is open to any addition/ alteration.  Authentic Inputs from esteemed readers are most welcome).

Hakhu’s Hockey Haven

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Hakhu’s Hockey Haven
(Kashmir Rechords Exclusive)

If Jammu City presently boasts of a high quality Astroturf laden Hockey Stadium, the credit for that definitely goes to the relentless efforts of Krishan Kumar Hakhu, the man who was wedded to the cause of Sports   in Jammu and Kashmir for decades together.

Popularly known as K K Hakhu, this son of the soil was incredibly passionate about the promotion of Sports in Jammu and Kashmir until his last breath. His dedication reflected the recognition of his significant role in promoting and nurturing sports in the erstwhile State.

K K Hakhu’s commitment to sports in Kashmir, particularly through his leadership of the Kashmir Wanderers Hockey Club since 1945, evidently left a lasting impact on the region’s sporting community.

Inside View of K K Hakhu Hockey Stadium, Jammu

 When Hakhu Defeated Politicians!

It is heartening to know that despite initial suggestions and manoeuvring to name Jammu’s Hockey  stadium after  some politicians, the decision to honor Hakhu’s contributions ultimately prevailed and K.K Hakhu Sports Stadium, opposite Jammu University Campus was named after him.

 Hakhu was originally from Sathu Barbarshah, Srinagar, Kashmir but had settled down at Exchange Road, Jammu where he breathed his last on January 14, 1997.

A recipient of so many awards, including  J&K Governor’s  Highest Sports Medal  and All India Surjit Singh Memorial Hockey Tournament Society Award,  Hakhu  had the honour  to start  Winter All India Indira Gold Cup  Hockey   tournament  in Jammu  in 1990  which  had enabled sports lovers to watch national and international hockey players in action.

Hakhu was, however, reportedly denied Padam Shree, despite his name having been recommended by the then State Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah for his relentless service to sports.

Besides Indira Gold Cup Hockey Tournament, Hakhu was a great organiser of Football matches also both in Kashmir and Jammu divisions and actively taking part in such matches. Organizing tournaments like the Indira Gold Cup Hockey demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering sportsmanship and athletic talent in the region.

K K Hakhu (Extreme Left) with Sheikh Mohd Abdullah. Photo Credit:Sohail Iqbal

 His legacy will likely continue to inspire future generations of sports enthusiasts in Jammu and Kashmir.

1996: When Kashmiri Pandits `dissociated’ from Lok Sabha Polls!

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1996: When Kashmiri Pandits `dissociated’ from Lok Sabha Polls!
( Kashmir Rechords Archives)
It was during 1996 Lok Sabha elections when  over 2.25 Lakh  Kashmiri Hindu voters  had reportedly  resolved to “dissociate’’ themselves  from the Parliament election process in the  then State of Jammu and Kashmir.
The call for boycotting the elections was given by six Kashmiri Pandit organisations, which included Panun Kashmir Movement (PKM), All India Kashmiri Samaj (AIKS), All India Kashmiri Samiti (AIKS), All India Kashmiri Pandit Conference (AIKPC), Kashmiri Hindu Fire Sufferers Forum (KHFSF) and Panun Kashmir (PK).  Panun Kashmir Movement ( PKM) convenor, now BJP leader, Mr Ashwani Kumar  Chrangoo  had disclosed the same during a Press Conference held in Jammu on April 16, 1996.
 For the benefit of readers, Kashmir Rechords is reproducing one of the newspaper cuttings of that Press Conference carried prominently by  many National and local dailies.
Justifying the `boycott’’ decision, Mr Ashwani Kumar Chrangoo had listed three main reasons “forcing’’ the community not to take part in the polls. Firstly, the situation, according to him was not conducive for holding any such polls. Secondly, no Kashmiri Pandit had a chance to be elected and thirdly, the electoral roll was not “authentic.”
  The PKM Convenor  had,  however, “advised’’ one lakh  community member voters residing  in other parts of the country  to  play a positive role  by exercising  their franchise  in favour of those  whom they consider “patriotic and nationalist’’.  

Vaishnavi Blamed for `Violation’

Ashwani Kumar Chrangoo during the same Press Conference had accused the president of ASKPC and a BJP nominee from Srinagar, Mr Amar Nath Vaishnavi for “violating” the provisions of his organisation’s constitution by jumping into the poll fray.
Demanding political dispensation for KPs under `’Homeland”, Mr Ashwani Kumar had regretted that the “community had been marginalised and reduced to non-entity by the political system that got established in the State’’.

Vaishnavi’s Response

Next day on April 17, 1996, the BJP nominee  from Srinagar, Mr Amar Nath Vaishnavi, who was accused of “violations’’ by jumping into the fray, had promised that his Party would declare the Kashmiri migrants as internally displaced people if  BJP  was voted to power at the  Centre. He had listed many other welfare measures for the community, which included creation of employment avenues for the displaced youth, welfare schemes for migrant women, financial assistance, and health care residential and educational facilities on the priority basis. 
Denying Mr Chrangoo’s  charges that his party  (ASKPC) had ever supported the poll boycott call and signed any resolution in this regard, Mr Vaishnavi had made it clear that the question of boycotting Parliamentary elections by Kashmiri Pandits did not  arise at all as such a move was bound to help the   subversive elements.
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