Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – An advisor to the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister has called for the reconstitution of an apex committee to facilitate and oversee the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland. The advisor emphasized the need for a joint effort between the community and the administration to evolve a roadmap for a safe and dignified resettlement.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Nasir Aslam Wani, advisor to the Chief Minister, stated on Saturday that the time has come to revive the apex committee, which was initially formed in 2009 to address the issues faced by displaced Kashmiri Pandits and monitor the implementation of central government rehabilitation measures.
The original committee comprised representatives from the government and various Kashmiri Pandit organizations. It was disbanded in 2014. Addressing an event attended by Kashmiri Pandits residing overseas, Mr. Wani highlighted the imperative of dialogue and collaboration to address the long-standing issue of their return.
“This conclave is fine, but beyond it, we have to sit together and talk. Some representatives from your side and some from our side will have to talk to each other and find a way (for the return of the Kashmiri Pandits),” Mr. Wani said. He added, “At the government level, I think there is a need to restore the apex committee.”
He further elaborated that the revived committee would be instrumental in developing a strategy for the return of Kashmiri Pandits, ensuring it is both safe and dignified. Mr. Wani assured that the administration would approach both the Chief Minister and the Lieutenant Governor to expedite the reconstitution process.
Reflecting on the past, Mr. Wani acknowledged that the eruption of militancy in the valley in 1990 had a profound impact on all communities, including both Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims. He stated that the resolution to the challenges faced by the region would also require a unified approach.
The advisor recognized that certain elements work against the pursuit of peace. He drew a distinction between those who opposed Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India in 1947 and those, like himself, who have consistently held supportive sentiments towards the Pandit community. He asserted that the valley’s cultural and social fabric remains incomplete without the return of its Pandit population.
Mr. Wani detailed the government’s past efforts, including rehabilitation programs, the Prime Minister’s package, the establishment of transit camps, and temporary accommodation, alongside the previous apex committee. He conceded that mistakes may have been made by individuals but stressed that attempts were also made to rectify them, acknowledging the shared pain caused by the circumstances.
He cautioned against a blame game, emphasizing that meaningful progress can only be achieved through concerted efforts and mutual understanding. Mr. Wani concluded by stating that regardless of the initiatives undertaken, whether through dialogue or committee formations, the objective of a complete return and resettlement of Kashmiri Pandits remains paramount. He stressed that progress would be hindered if the focus remained on assigning blame rather than working collaboratively towards a resolution, especially considering the passage of time.
The Chenab Times News Desk