Dr Sushil K Sharma
Down memory lane, there is an English maxim that resonates deeply in both sound and meaning-its soothing qualities make it pleasant to the ear, but its true impact is felt only when one understands and internalizes its essence. Life, however, often has its own way of imparting lessons, sometimes through the lives and experiences of those who are no longer physically with us. Yet, their teachings continue to guide and inspire, prompting us to revisit our values and goals. The individual I speak of here is my elder brother, Yashpal Sharma, a revered soul and towering figure in Jammu and Kashmir, whose life and teachings continue to influence me profoundly.
This reflection draws upon my recent experience as a guest speaker at the Border Area Youth Exchange Programme in Jammu, where two key themes became the focal point of our discussions: the condition of the border areas and the role of youth in nation-building. These areas were not only central to the Exchange but also to the very essence of Yashpal Sharma’s life, a life dedicated to improving the lives of people living on the fringes and empowering the youth to contribute to the nation’s progress.
Yashpal Sharma’s contributions to border areas were not merely administrative but deeply personal. His colleagues and contemporaries often recall how, during summer and winter vacations, a group of young students, under his leadership, aided the Indian Army in the tough terrains of border districts. They provided essential services, acted as local guides, and even helped set up military installations with the support of local communities. But his resolve didn’t stop there. For Sharma Shb, the concept of “border” extended beyond mere geographical boundaries-it encompassed the lives of those living near it, those whose existence had been scarred by partition-related violence, displacement, and enduring hardships.
I was deeply moved by the words of a resident of Degwar Terwan, who recounted the devastation when firing from across the border destroyed the village’s entire stock of fodder. Another resident, who lost his leg due to cross-border shelling, remembered how no one, except Yashpal Sharma, extended a helping hand. Sharma Shb not only visited this family personally but also ensured they received the compensation they were entitled to. His understanding of the plight of people living along the border, particularly the challenges they faced in terms of livelihood, dignity, and safety, was evident in the work he did as a Member of the Legislative Council. He championed the development of infrastructure-roads, hand pumps, bridges-while consistently advocating for basic amenities in these border areas.
The consequences of partition have rendered borders in the region far more hostile than most global boundaries, particularly due to the mass displacement of millions of people. The displaced communities, particularly those from Poonch, bear a unique set of vulnerabilities and traumatic experiences. Sharma Shb’s vision also embraced these displaced people, particularly those who had suffered since 1947. In 2022, Tarlok Singh Tara, President of the J&K Sharnarthi Action Committee, aptly stated that the displaced community of Poonch lost not just a dedicated leader but a compassionate soul who truly understood their pain. Sharma Shb’s commitment to communal harmony in fragile border areas was nothing short of exemplary, and this is reflected in numerous reports, books, and publications that highlight his contributions.
But his vision went beyond infrastructure and relief. He understood that places of worship offer healing, a truth he recognized long before it became widely accepted. Sharma Sahib’s played a pivotal role in renovating and establishing temples and community halls, creating spaces where people could gather, find solace, and rebuild their strength. The research linking religious belief and well-being resonates here-studies (Pew Research Centre, 2019) have shown that religious practice is often correlated with greater happiness and life satisfaction, particularly in settings marked by uncertainty and fear, such as those affected by displacement and ongoing cross-border conflicts.
The legacy of Sharma Sahib’s leadership, however, is not just about providing material support but also empowering the youth. He believed deeply in the transformative power of young people in social reconstruction and nation-building. His efforts bore fruit in the form of numerous initiatives, including the construction of springs, community halls, and intellectual exchange forums. He also founded the Youth Democratic Federation in 1980, a group that became a significant force in local politics, securing a resounding victory in the Municipal Council Poonch elections. Sharma Sahib’s leadership extended to environmental sustainability as well, where his encouragement of youth to plant trees along riverbeds helped mitigate the devastating impact of floods. Today, the impact of his work continues to resonate in the lives of the common people. His contributions to public parks, local heritage, and culture remain deeply embedded in the community. His role in promoting youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and social harmony laid the foundation for a brighter future for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
In conclusion, I reflect on the words of renowned historian KD Maini, who beautifully described Yashpal Sharma as “a Chinar tree, providing shade and relief to those who seek refuge under its canopy during the hardest days of life.” Indeed, Sharma Sahib was not just a leader but a guiding force, whose wisdom, compassion, and vision continue to illuminate the path for many. His life remains a beacon of hope, a testament to the power of empathy, dedication, and service to others.
(The author is HOD Cardiology, GMC & SSH, Jammu)
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