Unmarked Graves In Kashmir: SYSF Releases Critical Report Debunking Myths

Save Youth Save Future Foundation (SYSF), a Srinagar-based NGO, released a significant report titled ‘Unravelling the Truth: A Critical Study of Unmarked and Unidentified Graves in Kashmir Valley’ at the Press Club of India in New Delhi.

The event saw the presence of former Chief Information Commissioner Wajahat Habibullah.

SYSF Chairman Wajahat Farooq Bhatt and Daily Milap senior editor Rishi Suri honoured the event, while team lead Anika Nazir presented the research.

Six Years of Ground Research

The report is the culmination of six years of field research (December 2018 to December 2024) focused on investigating unmarked graves in Kashmir.

It systematically challenges the prevalent narrative around these graves. Four districts—Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, and Kupwara—were surveyed, with grave sites documented and analysed.

SYSF cross-referenced official records with local testimonies to identify those buried.

The report documents 99% of the graves, effectively refuting allegations by human rights groups of mass civilian killings.

Earlier, groups like the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP) and Human Rights Watch had labelled these graves as those of disappeared civilians. SYSF, however, links most graves to foreign militants.

Extensive Survey and Methodology

The study surveyed 373 graveyards using a triangulation method—desk research, field investigation, and local interviews.

They employed both qualitative and quantitative methods, including geotagging, photography, FIR analysis, and checking official records.

Sampling strategies included convenience, snowball, and targeted methods.

Data on 4,056 graves dating back to 1947 were collected. Among these, 2,493 belong to foreign militants (mostly Pakistani), 1,208 to local militants, 276 unidentified, nine civilians, and 70 tribal members (Kabaili).

The report states 93.2% of graves are well documented, disputing claims of mass civilian killings and exposing Pakistan’s proxy war strategy.

Challenging Separatist and NGO Narratives

The report confronts Western NGOs and separatist propaganda, accusing the Indian Army of atrocities.

While Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International had claimed 8,000 missing persons, SYSF’s findings counter these assertions with documented evidence.

Anika Nazir emphasised that the research highlights Pakistan’s role in fomenting unrest through foreign militants.

The report recommends DNA testing for unidentified graves and aims to guide peace and reconciliation policies.

While critics may view it as biased, the study promotes an evidence-based dialogue around Kashmir’s sensitive issue.

SYSF’s report marks an important contribution to Kashmir discourse, providing a fact-based narrative that could influence future policy-making and peace initiatives in the region.

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