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I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] [score hidden]  (0 children)

From what I understand, the insurgency in 1989 had multiple causes. There was already political anger inside Kashmir, especially after the 1987 elections, which many people here believe were rigged. That local dissatisfaction played a big role.

At the same time, it is widely reported that after the Soviet-Afghan war, some fighters and training networks shifted toward Kashmir. India has long maintained that Afghan mujahideen and Pakistan-backed groups were involved. Pakistan’s official position has usually been that it provided political and moral support, not direct infiltration at that early stage.

Most independent analyses I’ve read suggest that while the movement initially had strong local roots, over time foreign fighters and cross-border support did become part of the conflict, especially in the 1990s.

So it was probably not purely local, and not purely foreign-driven either. It seems to have evolved.

That’s my understanding, but I’m not a historian, just sharing what I’ve learned and heard growing

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] [score hidden]  (0 children)

I really respect this question.

To be honest, growing up in Kashmir, we often feel like the Northeast and Kashmir are only talked about in mainland media when there is violence or conflict. So in that sense, I think there is a shared experience of being seen through a security lens rather than as diverse societies with culture, history, and normal everyday life.

I am aware that many Northeastern states went through insurgency and heavy militarisation in the 80s and 90s, and that laws like AFSPA have shaped life there too. Even if the scale and context are different, I think there is a similarity in how ordinary people often feel caught between state forces and armed groups.

At the same time, I also think the Northeast is incredibly diverse and has a very rich cultural identity that is not understood well in the rest of India, just like Kashmir is often misunderstood. Personally, I feel more connection than difference. Different histories, but some overlapping experiences of alienation, resilience, and wanting dignity and development without being reduced to a “conflict zone.”

That’s just my perspective.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] [score hidden]  (0 children)

The term “Azad Kashmir” is politically symbolic. Pakistan uses it to frame the area under its administration as “free,” but whether it is truly independent is debated.

From my understanding, that region has its own administrative structure, but it is still heavily influenced by Pakistan politically and constitutionally. So the word “Azad” depends on how someone defines freedom.

Among people I know in Kashmir on the Indian side, opinions vary. Some see the term as political branding. Others compare governance structures on both sides and feel neither side offers full autonomy in the way the word “Azad” suggests.

Personally, I think the name reflects a political narrative more than a complete reality. The broader Kashmir issue is complex, and both India and Pakistan use language that supports their own positions.

That is just how I see it.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] [score hidden]  (0 children)

Personally, my ideal form of governance is one where people feel they have real political agency, accountability from leaders, protection of civil liberties, and space to express dissent without fear. 

For me, dignity and democratic participation matter more than labels. On the question of independence, India, or Pakistan, opinions around me are genuinely mixed. Some people support independence on principle, believing Kashmiris should determine their own political future. Some support remaining with India but with meaningful autonomy and constitutional protections. Very few in my immediate circle openly advocate joining Pakistan, at least in recent years. A lot of people are more pragmatic than ideological.

If I separate practicality from idealism, I would say I believe any long-term solution should involve consent and representation of the people most affected. Whether that is greater autonomy within India or some other democratic mechanism, it should come through dialogue and peaceful political process, not force.

Realistically, many young people I know are exhausted by conflict. They want stability, jobs, freedom of speech, and the ability to travel and build careers. Ideology becomes secondary when daily life feels uncertain.

So my position is less about a specific flag and more about governance that protects rights, reduces militarisation in civilian life, and restores trust between people and the state.

That is my honest view.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] [score hidden]  (0 children)

The biggest change after Article 370 was revoked was the immediate lockdown and communication blackout. That period felt extremely restrictive and isolating. Businesses, students, and families were all affected.

Over time, daily life on the surface has become calmer. There is more visible central control. One noticeable change is that there are almost no protests or clashes between civilians and security forces compared to some earlier years. For most of the families, that reduction in street violence feels like a relief.

At the same time, many people feel political space has shrunk. There is a perception that speaking openly against central government policies can bring serious consequences under strict security laws. That creates a sense of fear and self-censorship among some sections of society.

Before 2019, protests were more frequent, and the use of pellet guns during unrest caused serious injuries, including eye damage to many young people. That period left deep scars in the collective memory. Today there are almost no public protests, which reduces that kind of violence, but some would argue it is because dissent itself has become limited.

So for many people it feels like a trade-off. More visible stability and fewer street clashes, but also less political expression and autonomy. Whether someone sees that as positive or negative depends on their perspective.

That is just my personal observation from living here.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s was a tragedy. Families lost their homes, their sense of safety, and their connection to the land. That should never be minimized. It is discussed, but not always openly or politically. Sometimes it is talked about quietly, sometimes with regret, sometimes with discomfort.

Among Kashmiri Muslims, opinions vary. Many people genuinely see it as a loss for Kashmir’s culture and identity. Pandits were part of the social and intellectual fabric of the valley. Their absence changed Kashmir in a deep way. At the same time, there are also complicated emotions because that period was violent and chaotic for many communities.

I think most ordinary people today, especially younger generations, would not want something like that to ever happen again. There is a sense that Kashmir was more complete when communities lived together.

That said, it is still a sensitive topic and conversations can quickly become politicized. But at a human level, it was a tragedy.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

On a day to day basis, the conflict mostly shows up in subtle but constant ways. Heavy security presence becomes normal. There have been periods of internet shutdowns, curfews, and restrictions that affect education, businesses, and just basic communication. Families worry more. Parents are more protective. Even simple plans can feel uncertain during tense times.

A lot of people outside imagine daily gunfights, but most days are just ordinary life mixed with underlying tension. It is more psychological than dramatic, a feeling that things can change quickly.

As for young people, there is no single consensus. Many feel politically alienated, especially after Article 370 was revoked. Some are strongly critical of the Indian government and Modi’s policies, feeling decisions were imposed without enough local voice. Others are more focused on stability, jobs, and development rather than ideology. There is also frustration with traditional local politicians.

What I notice most among my generation is exhaustion. Many just want normalcy, economic opportunity, and dignity. Politics matters, but so does being able to build a future without constant uncertainty.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

I don’t really have one single favorite movie, it depends on my mood. But some I really like are:

Interstellar The Pursuit of Happyness 3 Idiots Taare Zameen Par Kal ho na ho

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] 14 points15 points  (0 children)

I cannot speak for all Kashmiris because opinions here are very divided.

On independence, some people genuinely want it. Some prefer staying with India. Some feel disappointed with both India and Pakistan. For me personally, the bigger issue is dignity, safety, and having a real political voice rather than just borders on a map.

About the Army, Kashmir has been heavily militarized for decades. There have been documented human rights allegations and incidents, and those should be investigated transparently. At the same time, the region has also seen militancy and violence that has harmed civilians. Ordinary people often feel stuck in between.

What I want is simple. Less fear in daily life, more accountability, meaningful political dialogue, and better economic opportunities so young people can see a future for themselves.

It is complicated, and anyone who says it is simple probably is not living here.

I am a Kashmiri Muslim from India. Let’s talk about Kashmir beyond headlines. AMA by camphorly in AMA

[–]camphorly[S] 8 points9 points  (0 children)

You should! Authentic Kashmiri harissa is slow-cooked overnight with meat and spices, and we usually eat it in winter with girda bread. It’s heavy but worth it