the Death of Democracy in Kashmir: By Salman Khan. The Silent Pages of Resistance:

The Death of Democracy?

A stifling silence drapes over Kashmir’s once-lively literary landscape. On August 5, 2025, the Jammu & Kashmir Home Department issued S.O. 203, banning and ordering the forfeiture of 25 books—spanning historical, journalistic, and academic works—alleged to “misguide youth,” propagate “secessionist” ideologies, and threaten India’s sovereign. Among the censored voices: Arundhati Roy, A. G. Noorani, Sumantra Bose, Christopher Snedden, Hafsa Kanjwal, Victoria Schofield, and others.

It is a stunning irony: the ban coincides with a state-sponsored book festival held on the banks of Dal Lake—an emblem of literary celebration cast in the shadow of oppress. As one Kashmiri scholar remarked, this is “an attack on the people’s memory … These books served as sentinels … But now, the erasure of memory in Kashmir is nearly complete.

A Breach of International Freedoms

This crackdown flouts principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)—treaties that affirm freedom of expression and access to information as non-negotiable democratic bedrocks. India, as a signatory to ICCPR, is obliged to respect these freedoms, even—or especially—in troubled territories. Yet here, the sovereign’s reach penetrates homes, libraries, and minds, turning pages into contraband.

Similar raids were conducted across all the districts in Jammu and Kashmir. Picture sources NDTV India

Silencing Literary Resistance

“To burn pages,” Bilal Siddiqui warned from Srinagar Central Jail, “because they cannot erase fact’. The ruling paints dissenting narratives as existential threats—yet often, it is truth that terrifies power. These books document Kashmir’s struggles, its historical wounds, and the aspirations of its children. Erasing them is to suffocate resistance.

Historical Echoes: From Reading Rooms to Political Movements

In Srinagar’s past, Kashmiri political consciousness would germinate in reading rooms—a space for ideas to breathe and transform. One such reading room gave birth to Kashmir’s first indigenous political party in 1931, where minds met and ideals formed. Among those targeted was Abdul Qadir (though perhaps a different historical figure than the British-era judge), unjustly tried under colonial precedents as "funder" of such spaces—serious charges leveled simply for investing in ideas rather than arms.

Poetry as Protest

Let words be lamp-posts, unquenchable lights. Let every banned book be a wounded bird, its song louder in absence. The silencing of literature is not death, but the promise of resurrection—every blank page a question mark against Modi jee BJP RSS tyranny.

The recent ban on 25 Kashmiri authors' books is a concerning sign for democracy and freedom of speech in the region. In a place where the written word has historically inspired change and highlighted struggles, this censorship is a blatant attempt to silence those willing to share their truths. It raises urgent alarms about the state of democratic values and the power dynamics at play.

The United Nations' Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes everyone's right to freedom of opinion and expression. This includes the freedom to seek, receive, and share information without interference. Sadly, in Kashmir, this basic human right is being undermined systematically. For instance, the ban specifically targeted works that delve into social issues and the political landscape of Kashmir, creating a vacuum where important narratives once thrived.

The recent censorship of literary works is part of a wider strategy aimed at suppressing the Kashmiri quest for self-determination. By limiting access to literature that conveys the realities of life in Kashmir, the authorities attempt to erase competing narratives. Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s line, "Hum dekhenge" (We shall see), has become a refrain of hope and resistance, echoing among those who continue to fight against oppression.

The implications of this ban are more profound than the immediate loss of critical voices. It cultivates a chilling environment where authors, thinkers, and everyday citizens hesitate to express their ideas. This atmosphere of fear contradicts the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which states that everyone should have the right to hold opinions without interference. Reports indicate that over 60% of writers in similar repressive environments self-censor due to fear of retaliation, illustrating a broader culture of silence.

Understanding the historical context of literary spaces in Kashmir is essential. The Reading Room in Srinagar, which founded the first political party in the region, is a prime example. This venue was not just a reading space. It was a hub for exchanging ideas that stimulated political consciousness. The unjust trial of Abdul Qadir, a pivotal figure in this space, highlights how far authorities are willing to go to silence dissent, sparking increased awareness and resistance within the community.

Censoring books reflects a desperate attempt to control narratives surrounding the Kashmir conflict. This action acknowledges literature's significant power in shaping views and mobilizing community action. Arundhati Roy aptly stated, "The only thing worth globalizing is dissent," emphasizing that censorship not only inhibits free speech but also weakens society. The ongoing silencing of dissent in Kashmir has severe implications for social cohesion and democratic governance.

What Can Citizens of Conscience Do?

• Read in secret, share in solidarity. Underground book-clubs and encrypted file-shares can ensure ideas endure—the pen is mightier than the censor’s fist.

• Document censorship, name it. Report bans through trusted digital platforms, human rights networks, and global literary communities.

• Invoke international law. Appeal to UN bodies, treaty mechanisms, and NGOs, reminding them of India’s ICCPR obligations.

• Build coalitions. Writers, academics, diaspora, publishers—united voices amplify resistance and build pressure for repeal.

• Tell the human stories behind the pages. Share firsthand experiences of Kashmiri readers, librarians, bookstore owners—personal narratives break through abstraction.

·         Raise Awareness: Utilize social media and local gatherings to inform others about the ban and its impact. Sharing knowledge not only empowers but also mobilizes support against censorship.

·         Support Local Authors: Actively purchase and promote works by Kashmiri authors, both banned and available. This support keeps their voices alive and visible in the public sphere.

·         Foster Dialogue: Create spaces for discussion, such as book readings and forums that explore themes from banned literature. Meaningful conversations can build understanding and solidarity in the community.

·         Advocate for Support: Contact local and international human rights organizations, calling for action against censorship in Kashmir. Collective advocacy amplifies the demand for justice.

As democracy suffocates in Kashmir, literary expression becomes the final refuge of freedom. In banning books, the state fears not violence—but knowledge. Yet, truth is a phoenix: the more you suppress it, the brighter it burns.

In summary, the censorship of books in Kashmir is not just an assault on literature; it threatens the very essence of democracy. The stories of those yearning for freedom should not be lost. As we consider the weighty implications of this act, let us remember that "The truth is like a lion; it doesn’t need your permission to be let loose."

The struggle for expression in Kashmir continues. It is an urgent call for all of us to unite with those whose voices are being silenced. While the pages may remain silent for now, the spirit of resistance will persist, reverberating throughout the valleys of Kashmir and reminding us that democracy is worth every effort to protect.

The question arises whether peace loving citizen of South Africa who have earned hard earned freedom from brute and autocratic apartheid regime should allowed PM Modi to be guest of honour to land of human rights fighters like Oliver Tambo, Nelson Mandela, Sol Plaatje and Ahmed Kathrada during upcoming G20 summit in November 2025 in Johannesburg.

All of us remain concerned that the issue of Jammu and Kashmir should be solved through peaceful negotiations and should be willing to lend all the strength we have to the resolution of this matter. Nelson Mandela at the inauguration ceremony of Non-Alignment Movement conference at Durban 1998.

Let citizens—readers, writers, dreamers—keep those flames alive. Kashmiri Azadi in our live time.

Aluta Continua.

Author: Salman Khan. Paul Harris Fellow, T.I.

A Human Rights and Social Activist.

Founder of South Africa Kashmiri Action Group SAKAG and Kashmir Global Movement.

Executive Member of Kashmir Diaspora Similar raids were conducted across all the districts in Jammu and Kashmir. KDC

email: sakhan1@yahoo.com