By Aubaid Ahmad Akhoon

In the complex and nuanced tapestry of Kashmir’s historical narrative, a stark revelation surfaces — the relentless pursuit of personal gain has too frequently eclipsed the collective well-being of the community. The ascension of an elite class, propelled by conscienceless motives, adeptly orchestrated the narrative through diverse channels, including mass media broadcast platforms and various tools within the state machinery.

This historical deception, orchestrated by those who would later form the elite, celebrated plunderers and blunderers, perpetuating a distorted legacy. The underlying issue lies in the acknowledgment that glorifying such figures betrays society and deviates its trajectory. What unfolded was not merely a breach of trust but a deliberate manipulation of narratives to serve vested interests.

Central to this narrative is the imperative for conscientious reflection before action. In a society where personal gains frequently overshadow collective welfare, the Kashmiri elite’s fixation on personal reputation misled the populace, perpetuating self-serving motives and hindering genuine societal progress.

The downward filtration theory becomes apparent — the elite’s actions influencing the broader population. As the elite prioritized reputation over authentic conscience, the common people were led astray, perpetuating a cycle of self-serving motives at the expense of societal advancement.

Navigating this historical landscape requires individuals, particularly Kashmiris, to liberate themselves from the shackles of personal gain. Both past and present elites must be held accountable for choices that have shaped Kashmir’s narrative.

In the broader context, the Kashmiri tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers when personal gain overshadows collective well-being. The call to question one’s conscience isn’t merely philosophical; it’s a practical imperative for a society prioritizing humanity over individual interests. Only through conscientious introspection can a community break free from the chains of historical fraud, paving the way for an authentic and just future.

This reflection extends beyond Kashmir, resonating with the timeless wisdom of Mark Twain, the American writer, humorist, and lecturer: “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” In a world fixated on external judgments, this insight urges individuals to prioritize the inner compass over fleeting perceptions.

Mark Twain’s wisdom centers on the idea that conscience is an unwavering guide to our actions, reflecting our moral and ethical principles. Unlike reputation, influenced by external factors, our conscience serves as a steadfast compass, pointing toward authenticity and moral integrity.

Reputation, often shaped by public opinion, is a fickle entity. Subject to change and influenced by external circumstances, it may not always align with our true character. While it can open doors, the cost of compromising principles for external validation should be carefully considered.

A delicate balance exists between maintaining a positive reputation and staying true to our authentic selves. Mark Twain’s counsel encourages us to evaluate the cost of compromising principles for external validation, recognizing the inherent paradox in societal expectations.

A robust conscience is built on self-awareness and a commitment to moral principles. Reflecting on our values allows us to align our actions with convictions, cultivating a reputation grounded in authenticity.

Prioritizing conscience over reputation provides resilience against external judgment. Recognizing that we cannot control others’ perceptions liberates us from self-imposed expectations, shifting focus from seeking approval to staying true to our principles.

Tail peice : the Kashmiri parable and Mark Twain’s wisdom converge, offering a profound lesson for navigating societal narratives. The essence lies in conscientious reflection, prioritizing authenticity over fleeting reputations. Whether in the historical context of Kashmir or the broader spectrum of human experience, embracing the call to question one’s conscience becomes paramount for a society aspiring to forge an authentic and just future.