In an armed conflict, role, task & experiences of women are varied. From victims to survivors, and from peace-builders to perpetrators of conflict, the categories of classification are indeed numerous. Women across the world be it any conflict have played a significant role in ensuring peace & stability. The case of Kashmiri women is not different from the same. However, their voices & contribution have been marginalised by the largely patriarchal and conservative Kashmiri society. Historically women of Kashmir have played a significant role in ensuring peace and stability in the region. They have been active participants in political movements & against the tribal invasion of late 1947 in form of Women Self Defence Corps. Kashmir has produced eminent personalities who shaped cultural ethos and contributed immensely to the regional growth. The likes of Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon, and Ernimaal are revered in Kashmiri society and are role model for Kashmiri women. The liberal attitude of Kashmiri society towards women resonated in ‘Naya Kashmir’ Manifesto of Sheikh Abdulla in 1944. The overall aim was attainment of just, equal, and rightful place in the society and enable Kashmiri women to make full contribution in regional & nation building.

The phase of terrorism in the valley further marginalised the voices of Kashmiri women folk and were relegated to second class citizens. The absence of women in active leadership, social activities etc impacted the psyche of aspiring girls equipped with strong leadership qualities and gave up in despair. Asymmetrical gender hierarchies legitimized by the forceful dissemination of fundamentalist and militarized discourses portended the debasement and prostration of Kashmiri women. The prospect of Kashmiri women in decision making roles contributing to enduring peace and prosperity is yet to be a tangible reality in the valley. The difficult Kashmir dynamics has tested the emotional resilience of women time and again.

They have proved beyond doubt that despite the violence and damaging circumstances which the situation has brought in, women have still retained their committed nonviolent approach to facing their fate, almost stoically. The Kashmiri women can become the medium to further the cause of dialogue amongst religions and regions in their facilitative role as peace leaders and peacekeepers. As a major step & initiative, role & contribution of women in Kashmir was highlighted and leaders in various domain were felicitated by LG in a function organised by Army.

Women in Security, Management and Peace NGO based in Delhi is operating throughout in South Asia, including Kashmir with an aim to promote women to positions of leadership in all aspects of peace, security, and international issues. In similar lines Kashmiri Women for Enduring Peace and Prosperity in the Valley can be given a thought process to enhance the role of women for community & regional growth. Identifying and exploiting potential of educational institutes – schools and colleges – to play a role in fostering of cultural coexistence. Charting a course for Kashmiri women (teachers, professors, youths) and their families to build capacities to prevent violence, practice empathy, and support processes of social justice, sustainable development, and pluralism. Nominating potential Kashmiri women and mentoring them to explore careers in security, peace building, gender studies, and other areas for establishing enduring peace and prosperity in the region. There is a need to initiate grassroot peace building initiatives led by Kashmiri women highlighting cultural and religious (Muslim, Hindu, Sikh & Buddhist) diversity of J&K.

The Kashmiri women have been the worst victims in the present scenario. Nevertheless, they have shown resilience and carved their niche in trying times. They have taken various roles in the changed circumstances balancing between being a mother, wife, daughter, and social/political activist. Kashmiri women will play a pivotal role in ensuring lasting peace and prosperity in the region if given a space and opportunities they deserve.