Latest news with #VictoriaSchofield
India Today
4 days ago
- Politics
- India Today
Pathway to terrorism: Arundhati Roy's 'Azadi' among 25 books banned in J&K
The Jammu and Kashmir government has declared the publication of 25 books, including those written by famous authors like Moulana Moudadi, Arundhati Roy, AG Noorani, Victoria Schofield and David Devadas, as forfeited for "promoting false narratives and glorifying terrorism"."It has come to the notice of the Government that certain literature propagates false narratives and secessionism in Jammu and Kashmir," an order issued by the Home Department on Wednesday said available evidence based on investigations and credible intelligence "unflinchingly indicate" that a significant driver behind youth participation in violence and terrorism has been the "systematic dissemination of false narratives and secessionist literature by its persistent internal circulation, often disguised as historical or political commentary". It plays a critical role in "misguiding the youth, glorifying terrorism and inciting violence" against India, the order said this literature would deeply impact the psyche of the youth by "promoting culture of grievance, victimhood and terrorist heroism"."Some of the means by which this literature has contributed to the radicalisation of youth in J&K include distortion of historical facts, glorification of terrorists, vilification of security forces, religious radicalisation, promotion of alienation, pathway to violence and terrorism etc.," it this context, 25 books have been identified that propagate "false narrative and secessionism" in J&K and need to be declared as "forfeited" in terms of Section 98 of Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, the order identified 25 books have been found to "excite secessionism and endangering sovereignty and integrity of India", thereby, attracting the provisions of sections 152, 196 and 197 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, it said."Therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Section 98 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the government of Jammu and Kashmir hereby declares publication of 25 books and their copies or other documents to be forfeited to the government," the order books include 'Al Jihadul fil Islam' by Islamic scholar and founder of Jamaat-e-Islami, Moulana Moudadi, 'Independent Kashmir' by Australian author Christopher Snedden, 'In Search of a Future (The Story of Kasimir)' by David Devadas, 'Kashmir in Conflict (India, Pakistan and the unending War)' by Victoria Schofield, 'The Kashmir Dispute (1947-2012)' by A G Noorani, and 'Azadi' by Arundhati Roy.- EndsMust Watch IN THIS STORY#Jammu and Kashmir#Bharatiya Janta Party
Al Jazeera
10-05-2025
- Politics
- Al Jazeera
Will the truce between India and Pakistan resolve differences over Kashmir?
Tensions soared on Tuesday when India attacked areas inside Pakistan that it claimed sheltered armed groups. That was after 26 tourists were killed in Indian-administered Kashmir last month. India has accused Pakistan of backing the fighters, a claim Islamabad denied. Why has the Kashmir region been a source of hostility between the two countries since independence from British rule in 1947? How far can colonial legacy be blamed for the conflict? And what lies ahead? Presenter: Sami Zeidan Guests: Victoria Schofield – British biographer, historian and author of books on Kashmir. Radha Kumar – Author, academic and an Indian government-appointed negotiator appointed to resolve the Kashmir crisis Ayesha Jalal – Professor at Tufts University and expert on South Asian history.
Express Tribune
11-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
A beginner's guide to surviving Karachi Literature Festival
As a first-time attendee at the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) 2025, I braced myself for a day of intellectual stimulation, cultural immersion, and perhaps a few unexpected adventures. Little did I know that Sunday would offer all that and more, wrapped in the vibrant chaos that only Karachi can provide. The day began with an ambitious plan: attend the 11:00 a.m. session on "Media and Youth Mental Health: Role of Organisational Leadership" in Jasmine Hall. However, my morning enthusiasm was quickly dampened by the realisation that finding a decent cup of chai amidst a sea of literati is akin to locating a metaphor in a physics textbook. After a labyrinthine search through bustling bookstalls and animated discussions, I finally secured my caffeine fix, only to discover that the session had concluded. Lesson learned: at KLF, the early bird catches the panel discussion. Determined to make up for lost time, I headed to the Main Garden for the 12:00 p.m. talk, "Creating Resilience through Climate Change Education," featuring the esteemed Sherry Rehman. The discussion was as enlightening as it was urgent, underscoring the pivotal role of education in combating climate challenges. Feeling inspired, I decided to split my attention between two simultaneous sessions: "A Journey of Friendship and Political Activism" with Sherry Rehman and Victoria Schofield in Jasmine Hall, and the "Book Discussion: Three Tales from Gulistan-i-Saadi" in the same venue shortly after. In my naivety, I believed I could flit between sessions like a literary butterfly. Reality, however, had other plans. Navigating through throngs of bibliophiles, I arrived at the first session just as it was wrapping up and the second was commencing. Settling into a seat, I was soon engrossed in the rich narratives and scholarly discourse, momentarily forgetting my earlier misadventures. Between sessions, I found myself wandering toward what I thought was a space for young professionals—the Youth Pavilion. Expecting a vibrant discussion on literature, activism, or contemporary issues, I stepped inside only to find myself surrounded by excitable children, crayons in hand, deeply engrossed in storytelling and interactive workshops. It took me a moment to realise my mistake, but by then, a particularly enthusiastic volunteer had already invited me to participate. Politely excusing myself, I made a hasty retreat, my pride slightly bruised but my amusement fully intact. In an effort to reclaim my dignity, I ventured into the Art Gallery, a hidden gem tucked away from the main festival chaos. The gallery was a sanctuary of visual storytelling, showcasing works by emerging and established artists, each canvas speaking volumes about Karachi's cultural and socio-political landscape. Abstract interpretations of cityscapes, evocative portraits, and intricate calligraphy lined the walls, offering a refreshing contrast to the festival's literary focus. I lingered longer than expected, captivated by the seamless intersection of art and literature. As evening descended, the festival's energy crescendoed. The 6:00 p.m. slot presented a smorgasbord of options: "Emergence of Urdu Rap in Pakistan" in Jasmine Hall, a poetry session titled "شاعری کے رنگ جوانوں کے سنگ" in Aquarius Hall, and "From Chapters to Change: Literature and Environmental Justice" in Room 007. Torn between my burgeoning interest in Urdu rap and a lifelong love for poetry, I opted for the former, curious to see how contemporary music genres are shaping Pakistan's literary landscape. The session was a revelation, highlighting the fusion of traditional poetic forms with modern rhythms—a testament to the evolving narrative of Pakistani art. As the clock edged toward 7:15 p.m., the festival grounds buzzed with anticipation for the Closing Ceremony in the Main Garden. Keynote speeches by educationist Arfa Sayeda Zehra and journalist Mishal Husain promised profound insights into the cultural and educational paradigms of our time, followed by a soul-stirring Qawwali performance by Ustad Farid Ayaz and Ustad Abu Muhammad. Unfortunately, reality intervened—I glanced at the time, realising that staying any longer would mean a long, uncertain commute home. With a heavy heart and a lingering sense of FOMO, I made the reluctant decision to leave just as the final session was about to begin. As I walked away, the distant echoes of harmoniums and applause followed me, a reminder that sometimes, even the best-laid festival plans demand a bittersweet farewell. As I left the festival grounds, my tote bag heavier and my notepad fuller, I couldn't help but chuckle at the day's misadventures. From missing sessions in search of coffee to mistakenly joining a children's workshop and unexpectedly losing myself in an art gallery, my first KLF experience was an unforgettable tapestry of knowledge, culture, and community. Note to future self: arrive early, plan wisely, and always—always—carry a thermos of coffee. Until next year, KLF. This rookie will be back, wiser and ready for more literary escapades.
