Kashmir A Quarantine State” Unveiled: Gen-Z Author Khushboo Abrol Dares to Decipher Truth, Counters False Narratives
Book Launch Celebrates Deep Research into Kashmir's History, Terrorism, Pandit Exodus; Dignitaries Praise Young Author's Courage, Authenticity in Confronting Decades of Misinformation
Jammu, September 24, 2025: In a powerful testament to the intellectual prowess and fearless spirit of the younger generation, “Kashmir A Quarantine State,” a ground-breaking book by young author Khushboo Abrol (Sheen), was formally launched today amidst widespread acclaim. The event, organized by Vomedh and TRN at a packed Writers Club Hall, celebrated Ms. Abrol’s meticulous research into the complex and often controversial history of Kashmir, with dignitaries praising her courage in confronting long-propagated false narratives.
The book release commenced with a poignant tribute to the late Bansi Lal Koul (Ganjoo), maternal grandfather of Khushboo Abrol, whose portrait was adorned with flowers by all present. Rohit Bhat, President of Vomedh, delivered the welcome address, expressing immense pride in organizing the event for such a talented “daughter of the soil” who has ventured into a subject that challenges even seasoned authors.
The first edition of “Kashmir A Quarantine State” was formally unveiled by an esteemed panel of dignitaries, including Dr. Arvind Karwani, JKAS, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner J&KUT Government (Chief Guest); Dr. Minakshi Kilam from the University of Jammu; Prof. B.L. Zutshi, a veteran academician and author; and Dr. Kuldeep Swadeshi (Guests of Honour). They were joined on the podium by Senior Journalist and Playwright King C. Bharati, Rohit Bhat, and the author herself, Khushboo Abrol (Sheen), as versatile artist and anchor Kusum Tickoo hosted the program.
King C. Bharati, in his paper on the book, spoke with evident pride, highlighting the author’s bold attempt to tackle the often-controversial subject of Kashmir. He underscored how Ms. Abrol’s in-depth research makes the book an essential read for anyone interested in the history, politics, terrorism, and Kashmiri Pandit exodus, crucial for understanding the “false narrative that has been propagated over seven decades.” Mr. Bharati praised her ability to expose misinformation by quoting the truth documented by historians often quoted by propaganda narrative builders, rather than relying on partisan sources. He asserted that “Gen-Z has changed the discourse wherever they have shown interest in the real history of Kashmir or India.”
Khushboo Abrol (Sheen), whose mother is a Kashmiri Pandit and father a Dogra, herself delved deeply into the contents of her book, sharing her inspiration and the intense curiosity that drove her pursuit of truth. She recounted how confrontations with “hordes of pseudo secularists” at her college and elsewhere fuelled her desire to uncover the realities of Kashmir. Paying heartfelt tributes to her maternal grandfather, the late Shri Bansi Lal Koul (Ganjoo), she credited him with inspiring her to delve into the genuine history of Kashmir, rather than uncritically accepting the narratives of “paid historians” who she believes have “done enough damage to the history of Kashmir and the realities of terrorism and Kashmiri Pandit exodus.”
In his presidential address, Chief Guest Dr. Arvind Karwani lauded the younger generation’s burgeoning interest in seeking factual truth. He emphasized that “such young authors are the need of the hour who are well qualified, well equipped, and can use latest technology to investigate and research extensively to counter the false narrative in the public discourse.”
Dr. Minakshi Kilam expressed immense pride in Ms. Abrol’s work, observing that young girls from the community are not only preserving their shared cultural heritage but also excelling in academic pursuits, offering a refreshing contrast to ephemeral Gen Z activities. She celebrated Khushboo for realizing the dream of her grandparents, parents, and the twin communities of Jammu and Kashmir, by contributing to expose those who have ingrained biased perspectives through “agenda-based education and books.”
Prof. B.L. Zutshi conveyed his extreme happiness that such a young author had chosen this vital topic and engaged in genuine research, rather than merely expressing personal thoughts. He predicted the book would be a “great hit” due to its authenticity, derived from undeniable sources, making it credible even to adversaries.
Dr. Kuldeep Swadeshi showered praise on the young author, calling Gen Z “the future” and expressing pride that such academic activities by them bring “smiles and a sense of pride among the older generation.” He added that such books would serve as invaluable reference material for future historians seeking the true narrative of Kashmir.
The vote of thanks was presented by Bharati Kaul, Vice President of Vomedh, who lauded Khushboo for her spirit, boldness, authenticity, and confidence. The event, attended by numerous prominent figures including Khushboo’s parents Sunil Abrol and Manju Abrol, Pradeep Dutta, senior journalist, Ravinder Koul, Ravinder Sharma, Vijay Kapoor, Shazi Khan, Shashi Kumari, Suman Bhat, Kamakshya Dogra, and Ishu Bharati Pandit, concluded with universal praise for the book and the author’s courage in presenting a real perspective of Kashmir’s complex history.
