Mothers, martyrdom, violent extremism and ‘azadi’ in Kashmir
There has been a rise in violence in Kashmir, amid claims of a growing culture of martyrdom that is beginning to form the new driving narrative for militancy and violence. This glorification of martyrdom as seen in Kashmir has its roots in growing violent extremism, the recruitment of young men to violence, and militarisation. This article takes up the issue by looking at the role of mothers giving up their sons for the cause, and finding their own agency in a patriarchal society through their son’s martyrdom.
Photos: Nisar ul Haq