Jan-Mar(2023)

Journey of Kashmiri Women from Domestic Spheres to Political Arenas-A Case Study of Dogra Regime

Aadil Nazir Bhat

Research Scholar, Department of History, Jiwaji University, Gwalior, M.P.

In this study an attempt has been made to analyse the role of Kashmiri women in the struggle against Dogra rule, and their often-overlooked contributions to the freedom movement. Central to the narrative is the 1931 arrest of Abdul Qadeer, which ignited widespread protests in Srinagar. The study focuses on the active participation of women, particularly from the working classes, who, despite being illiterate and traditionally confined to domestic roles, emerged as key figures in resisting oppression. These women participated in demonstrations, endured police brutality, and vocally opposed the Dogra regime. it recounts the heroism of individuals like Fazli, Sajida Bano, and Jan Ded, whose sacrifices have been overlooked in historical accounts. Their active involvement demonstrates a significant shift in the societal roles of women during this period. The study also covers crucial events such as Kashmir Day, the first armed resistance in 1931, and the influence of the All India Kashmir Committee.

Keywords: Kashmiri Women, Freedom Struggle, Dogra Rule, 1931 Protests, Resistance Movements
1. Dar, A. H., & Nengroo, A. (2015). Dogra Raj and Forms of Silent Protest in Kashmir (1846-1932), p.13
2. Bhat, S. A., Nazir, Y., & Mir, A. A. (2010) Diverse Meanings of Freedom Struggle in South Asia: Movement against Dogra Rule in Kashmir, p.112.
3. Sheikh, S. A., & Bodha, I. J. (2016). Famine in Kashmir: The Policy of Dogra Ruler: 1846-1925. International Journal on Arts, Management and Humanities 5 (2):p. 17.
4. Khan, G.H. (1980). Freedom Movement in Kashmir 1931-1940. New Delhi, Jammu, Trivandrum: Light and Life Publications, p.ix.
5. Ibid., p.1.
6. Ibid., citing The Treaty of Lahore, Article XII, p.3.
7. Ibid., citing Treaty of Amritsar, Article III, p.3.
8. Ibid., p.11.
9. Letter from Maharaja Pratab Singh to Prime Minister (14 December 1918), File No. 191/h-75, Kashmir Government Records (J&K State Archives).
10. Ibid., p.13.
11. Ibid., p.78.
12. Ibid., p.82.
13. Rashid, (1968). Tarikh-e-Hurriyat-i-Kashmir. Srinagar: Muhaftiz Publications, p.1171.
14. Khan, G.H. (1980). Freedom Movement in Kashmir 1931-1940, p.95.
15. Ibid., p.99.
16. Ibid., p.100.
17. Ibid., p.13.
18. Ibid., p.78.
19. Ibid., p.82.
20. Ibid.
21. Yasin, M., Yasin, M. (Eds.) (1996). Mysteries and Glimpses of Kashmir. New Delhi: Raj Publications, pp.195-196.
22. Khan, G.H. (1980). Freedom Movement in Kashmir 1931-1940, p.101.
23. Ibid., p.118.
24. Ibid., pp.122-123.
25. P.N. et al. (2005). Daughters of Vitasta. New Delhi: Pamposh Publications; Reprint: Srinagar: Gulshan Publications, pp.246, 261, 263.
26. Khan, G.H. (1980). Freedom Movement in Kashmir 1931-1940, p.130.
27. Ibid., p.131.
28. Ibid.
29. Yasin, M. (1996). Mysteries and Glimpses of Kashmir, pp.197-198.
30. Saraf, M.Y. (1977). Kashmiris Fight For Freedom Vol. 1 (1819-1946). Lahore, Pakistan: Ferozons Ltd., pp.382-384.
31. Ibid., p.388.