BGSBU hosts South Asia dialogue on misinformation and conflict narratives

Rajouri, Feb 5, KNT: Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Rajouri on Wednesday hosted a first-of-its-kind South Asia dialogue focusing on misinformation, public discourse and institutional dynamics, bringing together academicians, journalists, legal experts and civil society voices from across Jammu and Kashmir.

The discussion, titled “Power Politics, Public Discourse, and Institutional Dynamics in South Asia”, was organised under the banner of the Jammu and Kashmir Haq Insaaf Council, a peace-building and civic platform headed by Advocate Zeshan Syed. The initiative aimed to promote informed dialogue, democratic values and institutional accountability, particularly in border and conflict-affected regions.

The programme began with the National Anthem followed by a two-minute silence to pay tribute to those who lost their lives during Operation Sindoor. Organisers said the opening reflected the spirit of constitutional responsibility and respect for national sacrifice.

The dialogue saw participation from noted speakers including Prof Ashok Aima, former Vice Chancellor of Central University of Jammu; Saleem Beigh, former Director General of Tourism; Prof Karan Maini; Dr Ali Asghar Shah, Dean, School of Biosciences and Biotechnology; Advocate Uma Kapahi; human rights activist Javed Beigh; journalists Sumit Bhargav and Azad Rahat. The session was moderated by Tahir Mustafa Malik, while Sajid Arain delivered the welcome address.

Speakers discussed the growing impact of misinformation, especially on youth in border areas, and examined the widening gap between public narratives and ground realities. Deliberations also focused on human rights, institutional accountability, women’s leadership in Jammu and Kashmir, conflict entrepreneurship, and the role of responsible media and transparent governance in ensuring long-term peace and stability.

Addressing the gathering, Advocate Zeshan Syed criticised Pakistan’s role in regional instability, alleging that continued support to terrorism has undermined peace efforts in South Asia and stalled regional cooperation mechanisms. He said developments in neighbouring countries offered lessons for policy reflection amid what he described as sustained propaganda campaigns. He also alleged misuse of international aid in Pakistan-occupied regions for activities detrimental to regional peace.
The programme witnessed active participation from students of BGSBU and youth from Rajouri, Poonch, Jammu and the Kashmir Valley. Organisers said the engagement highlighted a growing awareness among young people about the importance of critical thinking, informed participation and civic responsibility.

University officials, including Deans, Directors, Heads of Departments, faculty members, officers, non-teaching staff and research scholars, also attended the event. The organisers said such initiatives would continue in the future to strengthen fact-based discourse and encourage meaningful youth participation in democratic processes. [KNT]