The Panun Kashmir organization has urged the central government to modify the framework of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) to address the specific needs of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. In a memorandum submitted to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, the organization highlighted that the current provisions of the Act do not adequately cover the displaced community, leaving many without access to subsidized food grains.
Key Demands of Panun Kashmir
Panun Kashmir has called for several amendments to the NFSA to ensure that displaced Kashmiri Pandits, who were forced to leave the Kashmir Valley in the 1990s due to militancy, receive their rightful benefits. The organization argues that the existing framework fails to recognize the unique circumstances of this community, which remains scattered across various parts of the country.
Inclusion of Displaced Families
The memorandum specifically requests that all displaced Kashmiri Pandit families, regardless of their current place of residence, be included as beneficiaries under the NFSA. It also demands that the ration card system be streamlined to allow for easy portability, enabling families to access food grains wherever they are staying.
Enhanced Ration Quota
Panun Kashmir has also demanded an increase in the quantity of food grains provided to each family, citing the higher cost of living and limited livelihood opportunities faced by the displaced community. The organization suggests that the current allocation of 5 kg per person per month is insufficient and should be raised to at least 10 kg.
Background and Context
The displacement of Kashmiri Pandits began in the early 1990s following the outbreak of insurgency in the Kashmir Valley. Thousands of families were forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in other parts of India, primarily in Jammu, Delhi, and other cities. Despite various rehabilitation schemes announced by the government, many families continue to face hardships, including food insecurity.
Panun Kashmir, a representative body of the displaced community, has been actively advocating for their rights and better rehabilitation measures. The organization believes that modifying the NFSA framework is a crucial step towards ensuring food security for the displaced population.
Government Response
While the central government has expressed sympathy for the plight of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, no concrete action has been taken so far on the demands raised by Panun Kashmir. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution is reportedly reviewing the memorandum and may consider amendments to the NFSA to include the displaced community.
The issue is expected to be raised in the upcoming session of Parliament, with several political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir likely to support the demand for modifications to the food Act.
