Opinion | Role of Journalists, Writers & Social Activists in Shaping the New J&K’s Narrative

Journalists, writers, and activists aren’t just part of this journey but they are steering it. Not as mouthpieces, but as mirrors to a society that is choosing unity over unrest, growth over grievance. It’s time we stop asking whether Kashmiris are being heard. They are not just being heard—they are speaking. Loudly. Clearly. And finally, with hope.

In the heart of a valley once caught in the crossfire of ideology and instability, a quiet revolution is unfolding, not with slogans or shutdowns, but with stories, voices, and truth. This is the new Jammu & Kashmir, where journalists, writers, and social activists are not just reporting change; they are creating it. In cities like Delhi and Mumbai, journalism largely follows the pulse of politics, business, and entertainment. But in Kashmir, journalism has always had a different weight. It hasn’t just been about what is reported, but how it’s reported, and to what end. In the past, a headline could spark a protest. A column could shift the public mood. An editorial could tilt loyalties. The pen here has often been mightier than the sword, sometimes for better, sometimes for worse.
Yet, post-2019, there’s been a reset. The abrogation of Article 370 was not just a political move, it was the starting point of a new media narrative. Gone are the days when newspapers were filled with emotional appeals and separatist undertones. Today’s writers and journalists in Kashmir are focused on stories of peace, development, and resurgence. And that shift is not orchestrated from the top, it’s being demanded by the people. Take, for example, the young media creators highlighting Kashmir’s tech startups, entrepreneurs documenting the revival of heritage architecture, and student journalists covering school functions and sports tournaments that were once unheard of in our daily discourse. These aren’t just fillers; they are the foundation stones of a new collective mindset—one that prefers a job fair over a jihad.
Equally critical is the role of social activists. Earlier, activism in Kashmir was synonymous with protests and hartals. Now, it reflects community engagement—cleanliness drives in Baramulla, blood donation camps in Anantnag, and digital literacy workshops in Kulgam. These efforts may not make national headlines, but they’re reshaping the grassroots reality of Kashmir. For instance, initiatives like the ‘Athwas 2023’ have been groundbreaking in fostering socio-economic growth in the region. Despite abundant natural resources, Kashmir has faced challenges in exporting products due to a lack of processing facilities and inadequate storage infrastructure. ‘Athwas 2023’ aims to address these issues by inspiring entrepreneurship and the business community to foster economic resurgence in Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Moreover, social activists like Jehanzeb Allaqaband have hailed transformative initiatives by the Lieutenant Governor, stating that these efforts have brought about a tangible transformation, instilling peace and tranquillity in the region. Such endorsements reflect the changing perception and active participation of local activists in the developmental narrative of J&K.
One cannot forget the writers, the columnists who once echoed division but now speak of dignity. The poets whose verses once mourned loss but now celebrate new beginnings. These voices are not silenced, as some critics wrongly claim. They are simply being heard differently. Instead of amplifying despair, they are channelling direction. Projects like ‘Culture and Conflict’, implemented through the Yakjah Reconciliation and Development Network, have empowered women artisans to take control of their livelihoods, promoting dialogue and resilience between faith communities. Such initiatives highlight the multifaceted roles of women and the importance of inclusive approaches in designing the way forward for Kashmir. Furthermore, feminist collectives like Zanaan Wanaan are engaging in activism and advocacy, promoting civil discourse, and supporting Kashmiri women cultural practitioners. Their work underscores the critical role of women in the socio-political landscape of J&K.
Challenges and the Path Forward
There’s also no denying that challenges remain. There are still stories that must question the status quo—healthcare gaps, rising drug abuse, and water shortages. And these are being reported. The difference? The intent is to fix, not to fan the fire. What we’re witnessing in J&K is a rare and precious moment in history: the rebuilding of a region’s soul through responsible storytelling. Journalists, writers, and activists aren’t just part of this journey—they are steering it. Not as mouthpieces, but as mirrors to a society that’s choosing unity over unrest, growth over grievance. It’s time we stop asking whether Kashmiris are being heard. They are not just being heard—they are speaking. Loudly. Clearly. And finally, with hope.
Email: vadiekashmir@gmail.com
Note: This article draws on information from various sources to offer a comprehensive overview of the evolving roles of journalists, writers, and social activists in Jammu and Kashmir.