SRINAGAR: Police in Jammu on Wednesday intercepted a protest march organised by members of the Kashmiri Pandit community who were attempting to reach the office of the Relief Commissioner. The demonstrators were seeking improved rehabilitation measures, financial relief assistance, and clarity on ration benefits.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the protesters, who identified as Kashmiri migrants, had gathered in Jammu. Their demonstration focused on opposition to the reported integration of migrant ration cards with the National Food Security Act (NFSA). Protesters expressed their demand that the NFSA framework should not be applied to Kashmiri migrants until their permanent rehabilitation in the Valley is achieved.
During the demonstration, several participants vocally stated, “Apply NFSA only after settling us permanently in Kashmir.” They also called for an increase in the monthly relief package provided to the community and urged for the implementation of concrete measures for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley.
Law enforcement personnel intervened and halted the march before it could reach the Relief Commissioner’s office. The protest continued peacefully thereafter under the observation of the police.
One protester, addressing concerns about the Central Government and the BJP, articulated that the community had anticipated more substantial rehabilitation efforts following 2014. The individual stated, “We believed the government at the Centre would understand our pain and help in our rehabilitation, but we feel ignored.” The protesting migrants further alleged that past assurances regarding return, rehabilitation, and welfare initiatives had not resulted in lasting solutions on the ground.
The Chenab Times News Desk