BILAL HUSSAIN
Srinagar: Nowadays Kashmiri youths seem no more interested in cricket, career and cinema, and instead in their daily discourse they discuss present situation, protests, rallies, news reports on Kashmir, et al. With the massive youth involvement in the recent rallies Muzaffarabad Chalo, Pampore Chalo, Eidgah Chalo – observers here are of the opinion that “the priorities for the youth have changed suddenly.” In almost all the rallies it was seen that the youths in different areas of the city had formed voluntary groups to provide refreshments to the protestors. While many youth take direct part in the protests, others ensure the arrangements like making of banners and flags, providing of refreshment to the marchers, etc. Surprisingly, the BBC website in a report titled “Changing Priorities” on June 26 while quoting youngsters from the Valley said they (youth) were “no more interested” in the freedom struggle. Quoting few youth from the Kashmir University, the report said: ‘Today, the word Azadi is still part of some people’s lexicon, but with many young Kashmiris it comes out only after some probing.’ It said: “The number two topic of discussion (among the youth) is education, career, employment opportunities. Then we (youth) share our concern for the environment. The fight for Kashmir’s freedom or where the separatist movement is headed is last on the list.” Observers here say that it took quite little time for the youth to change their priorities. “Azaadi sentiment was always there in the minds of the youth, but certainly the priorities were different. But now it seems their first priority has become the future of Kashmir,” said Muhammad Anwar of Shehar-e-Khaas. “All of a sudden winds seems to have taken a 180 degree turn and youth have come in the centre stage,” said Nazia, political science student in a college. Interestingly, the youth in many areas take a great deal of interest in creating novel slogans for demonstrations and making flags. “Till date I have made hundreds of green flags,” said Mehraj Wani, who has recently completed his management in financial studies. School going children too are enthusiastically taking part in the demonstrations. “Don’t undermine us, we are as much part of the demonstrations as are adults,” said Owais Nazir a 12th standard student. Surprisingly, young girls too are becoming the part of the protests in many areas. “We are no way lower than the boys. We too want contribute to Kashmir cause,” said Hina, a Kashmir University student. Another college going girl, Sabha said she prayed to Almighty Allah for the success of Kashmiri nation.
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