New book challenges narrative on Kunan Poshpora mass rapes

SRINAGAR — Young writers Komal Verma and Haroon Imtiaz from Jammu and Kashmir are set to release their book, “Why Kunan Poshpora?”, which presents an alternative perspective on the controversial 1991 mass rape allegations against the Indian Army.

The book, expected to be published in March, challenges long-held narratives and aims to uncover what the authors believe is the real story behind the incident.

The duo spent two weeks in Kunan Poshpora, interacting with locals and gathering firsthand accounts. 

According to them, many villagers claimed that no cordon-and-search operation took place in Poshpora on the night of February 23-24, 1991. Instead, they allege that militants, disguised as soldiers, were responsible for the crimes, a tactic reportedly used to instil fear and tarnish the Indian Army’s image.

Inspired by the Indian Army, Komal also launched a campaign called ‘Sab Khairiyat’, fostering dialogue with villagers and discussing the Army’s humanitarian efforts.

Both authors, just 19 years old, hope their book will encourage critical thinking and present a fresh viewpoint on a decades-old controversy.