ABSTRACT

Kashmir, a place called paradise on earth, ironically has become a living hell for its inhabitants, especially women. The pitchy blemish of patriarchy, objectionable cultural habitudes along with the torment of armed conflict, has not only exploited but crippled the potential of women. The streak of patriarchy is not very unusual here and invariably leads to abuse and discrimination. The roots of patriarchy have as many archaeological proofs, movements, records and tales written in ancient literature which makes it clear that it existed in the societies for a long long time. So what comes in complimentary to the women of kashmir is this situation of endurance of unjust cultural rituals that are praxis in the society. Adding to the miseries, it is the impact of armed conflict, which mercilessly violates the basic human rights of a woman. It not only counts the sexual and physical violence that a woman encounters but also enumerates financial difficulties and psychological anxieties.The international organisations like CEDAW (Convention on elimination of discrimination against women) and other constitutional provisions that assure the development and protection of women play a very vital role by adding heaps to the standpoint. This paper will try to examine and challenge the cultural stereotypes, the impact of conflict on women of Kashmir and the role of national and international organisations in elevation of their sufferings.