National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Monday stated that the people in the Kashmir Valley desire the return of Kashmiri Pandits, expressing optimism that this goal will be achieved soon. However, he emphasized that the Pandit community itself must also take proactive steps to facilitate their return.
Abdullah's Remarks at Kheer Bhawani Temple
Abdullah made these comments during his visit to the Kheer Bhawani temple in Tulmulla. He attributed the prevailing atmosphere of brotherhood, which had been absent for many years, to the blessings of the deity. “We pray that the day is not far when Kashmiri Pandits return to their homes and live amongst us,” he told reporters.
Community Effort Required
Abdullah asserted that the Pandit community has a role to play in their own return. “I think people have to try themselves. Unless they make attempts, they cannot come. Preparations have been made, people in the Valley want them to return,” he said. He did not specify what steps the community should take but reiterated that the government has taken several measures to facilitate the return of Kashmiri Pandits.
Government Preparations
While Abdullah acknowledged the government's efforts, he did not provide details on specific initiatives. The return of Kashmiri Pandits has been a politically sensitive issue, with previous attempts facing challenges related to security, employment, and rehabilitation.
Context of the Visit
The Kheer Bhawani temple is a significant Hindu shrine in the Kashmir Valley, and Abdullah's visit underscores the ongoing dialogue about the return of the Pandit community, which fled the valley during the insurgency in the early 1990s.
