History is often remembered through official records, newspaper headlines, and court judgments. Yet for many ordinary people, history lives in memories that remain vivid long after the events themselves have passed. Some memories never fade because they are tied to fear, loss, and the suffering of loved ones. For those who lived through difficult periods in Kashmir, personal experiences continue to shape the way they view the present.
One of the memories that has stayed with me dates back to 17 July 1998. I remember that day as one of fear and uncertainty. According to my personal recollection, our home was searched during a security operation. I remember seeing my father being assaulted in front of me. As a child, witnessing such an event left a deep emotional impact that words can hardly describe. Whether a person experiences conflict directly or merely hears about it, the consequences are very different. Those who witness violence involving their own family often carry those memories throughout their lives.
I also remember that other journalists and their families were affected during that period. Many journalists in Kashmir worked under extremely difficult conditions, facing pressure from different directions while trying to report on events around them. The lives of journalists, their families, and many ordinary citizens were often shaped by circumstances beyond their control.
Years passed, but memories remained. Time moved forward, families grew older, and many parents who had struggled through those difficult years eventually passed away. When our parents died, thousands of relatives, friends, neighbours, and well-wishers gathered to pay their respects. Such moments remind us that every family carries its own story of hardship, resilience, and loss.
In 17th July 2026, public reports indicated that Davinder Singh, who is in judicial custody in a separate criminal case, was not granted bail following the death of his father, Deedar Singh, to attend the funeral. Whatever the legal reasons for that decision, it became another moment that led many people to reflect on the unpredictable nature of life and the passage of time.
For me, the coincidence of these events occurring around the same date carries symbolic meaning. It reminds me that history has a way of returning to our thoughts, even when decades have passed. Time changes people's circumstances, but memories remain part of who we are.
At the same time, it is important to separate personal experiences from legal conclusions. Every individual is entitled to due process under the law, and courts—not public opinion—determine legal responsibility. Likewise, every family deserves dignity during times of bereavement, regardless of the circumstances surrounding any individual member.
Conflict affects far more than those directly involved. It leaves emotional scars on children, parents, journalists, and communities. Some wounds heal with time, while others remain part of a person's life story. A child who witnesses violence may remember those moments decades later. These experiences influence how people understand justice, accountability, and reconciliation.
Looking back after many years, I believe one of the greatest lessons is that violence leaves lasting consequences for everyone. Families who lose loved ones or witness traumatic events often carry those memories silently. Healing requires not only the passage of time but also truth, accountability where appropriate, and respect for the dignity of all victims.
The story of Kashmir contains countless personal narratives. Some are documented in official records, while others survive only in the memories of those who lived through them. Listening to these stories with empathy is essential for understanding the human cost of conflict.
Ultimately, history should encourage societies to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. Justice, peace, and respect for human dignity are values that benefit everyone, regardless of political beliefs or personal backgrounds. Every family that has experienced suffering deserves to have its story heard respectfully, while remaining committed to accuracy, fairness, and the rule of law.
Time has an unusual way of connecting moments separated by decades. It reminds us that power, circumstances, and fortunes can change, but humanity remains constant. Compassion for those who suffer, respect for the law, and a commitment to peace are principles that should guide every society. Remembering the past is important, but building a future in which such suffering does not recur is an even greater responsibility.
