Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Mar 6: Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust (PNBMT) held a significant meeting today at Gosani Gund Ashram, Tomal Bohri, to discuss recent political developments concerning the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits (KPs).
The gathering saw the participation of trust members and prominent community leaders who expressed optimism over the recent statement made by the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in the State Assembly. The LG had reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the dignified return of Kashmiri migrants to the Valley under a secure and conducive environment.
Welcoming the LG’s assurances, Virender Raina emphasized the need for concrete and substantial measures to address the issue. He asserted that the return and rehabilitation of KPs is a significant political matter requiring a comprehensive political resolution. Raina highlighted that KPs are the indigenous people of Kashmir, possessing an unalienable right to the land despite their forced exodus decades ago.
H L Bhat called for a comprehensive and foolproof rehabilitation plan that ensures not only the physical resettlement of KPs but also fosters an ecosystem of peace, prosperity, and socio-cultural growth. He stressed that any plan for return must safeguard the community’s civilizational ethos.
In a strong appeal, Sundri Lal Koul underscored the urgency of passing the Temples and Shrines Bill to protect the ancient temples of Kashmir from vandalism and illegal encroachments. He stated that these religious sites are an essential part of Kashmiri Pandit heritage and their preservation is crucial for maintaining the community’s cultural and religious continuity.
Addressing the socio-political dynamics, Kuldeep Raina emphasized that the KP community should not be perceived merely through an electoral lens. He argued that despite their reduced numbers, KPs have been a vital part of Kashmir’s socio-political fabric, making significant contributions to the region’s cultural and historical ethos despite centuries of persecution.
The meeting was attended by several prominent figures, including Kashmiri Lal Bhat, Ashwani Handoo, Shadi Lal Koul Rais and Behari Lal Zar.
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