Kashmiri Pandits' Resilient Push for Return Amid Elections

As Jammu and Kashmir gear up for assembly elections, displaced Kashmiri Pandits are eager to vote, emphasizing their demand for return and rehabilitation in the Kashmir Valley. For decades, the community has faced neglect from political parties and seeks a permanent settlement with peace and security.

Jammu, Aug 28 (PTI) — As the first phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir approaches, displaced Kashmiri Pandits are eager to cast their votes despite being far from their home constituencies in the Kashmir Valley. Their primary demand remains return and rehabilitation in the region.

The community, which has been scattered across the country since their exodus in 1990 due to terrorism, is pushing for a permanent settlement in the Valley. Their agenda for the elections includes securing peace, security, and dignity.

Ramesh Hangloo, director of Radio Sharda, stated, "Our expectation is that our votes should be utilized properly. We have made our position clear – we want relief and rehabilitation, and, ultimately, to return to our homes in Kashmir."

For years, the community members have felt neglected by political parties. Arvind Koul, a businessman, and former president of the Kashmiri Pandit IT Association, emphasized the need for the government to prioritize their return and rehabilitation.

The Kashmiri Pandits have faced multiple displacements, with many asserting their true home lies in Kashmir. Rohini Jyotshi, administrator of the Prem Nath Shastri Sanskrit Shodh Sansthan, highlighted their plight: "We have faced seven exoduses. In 1990, the entire community was forced out of the Valley. This is not our place of birth."

The need for a well-thought-out plan is crucial, according to Hangloo. He stated that the return must be under their conditions, with a long-term strategy rather than a temporary relocation.

Social activist Vikas Raina criticized political parties for failing to address the community's settlement issues properly. However, efforts are being made to facilitate their voting process, with the Election Commission establishing 24 special polling stations and providing postal ballot options for community voters in Jammu, Udhampur, and Delhi.

Arvind Karwani, Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner for Jammu and Kashmir, confirmed that all necessary arrangements have been made for voters through both options. Over 100,000 Kashmiri migrants are registered to vote in the upcoming elections, with a notification issued to detail their voting options.

(With inputs from agencies.)