Desk:Union Home Minister Amit Shah sparked a new debate on Kashmir’s name during a book launch event in Delhi on Thursday. Speaking at the release of the book “Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh Through the Ages”, Shah suggested that Kashmir’s name might be derived from the revered Hindu sage, Rishi Kashyap.
He stated, “We all know that Kashmir is often referred to as the land of Kashyap. It is possible that the region got its name from him.”
Shah emphasized the need to document history with evidence and facts rather than relying solely on past narratives. “Historians have done their work, but now it’s our turn to compile history based on proofs,” he said.
He highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Kashmir, referencing figures like Charaka and Sushruta. Shah also mentioned the region’s connection to Buddhism, pointing out that the fourth Buddhist council was held in Kashmir during the reign of Emperor Kanishka.
The Home Minister also drew attention to the cultural ties between Kashmir and India, mentioning landmarks like the Shankaracharya Temple and the Silk Route. He argued that Article 370 created a false notion of Kashmir’s temporary integration with India, which fueled separatist sentiments that eventually led to terrorism.
“Why do regions with significant Muslim populations elsewhere in India not face terrorism?” Shah questioned. He dismissed proximity to Pakistan as a sole factor, pointing out that states like Gujarat and Rajasthan share borders with Pakistan but remain unaffected by terrorism.
Shah claimed that the abrogation of Article 370 brought significant changes to the region. He highlighted that terrorism incidents in Kashmir have reduced by 70%, and no stone-pelting incidents have occurred since 2019.
The Home Minister concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to restoring Kashmir’s cultural and historical glory and integrating the region more deeply into India’s cultural fabric.