IMPACT OF INSURGENCY ON WOMEN EMPOWERMENT IN KASHMIR

Abstract

For the last 33 years, Jammu and Kashmir has grappled with significant political and social unrest stemming from the proxy conflict between India and Pakistan. This upheaval has deeply affected the populace, leading to substantial changes in their way of life, health, work environment, education, and mentality. Amidst the impacted residents, Kashmiri women, irrespective of their religious backgrounds, have borne considerable hardships. They've faced psychological trauma, poverty, lack of education, sexual assault, harassment, infertility, and numerous other difficulties. This study zooms in on the challenges and adversities confronting the most vulnerable sector of society—women. These women find themselves confined to traditional roles of child-rearing and household responsibilities, with minimal participation in decision-making processes. The longstanding Kashmir issue, persisting for seven decades, has inflicted profound suffering on women, subjecting them to the consequences of actions by both state and non-state entities. Instances of sexual assault, harassment, forced disappearances, and the growing numbers of half-widows, half-orphans, and orphans have surged as a result.

Keywords: Kashmiri Women; Vulnerable Section, Violence, Impact of Insurgency on Women, Challenges.