Srinagar, August 24: Ashok Koul, the General Secretary (Organization) of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized on Monday that the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley should focus on rebuilding trust and strengthening brotherhood among different communities, rather than solely on preventing targeted killings.
Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Koul described the return of Kashmiri Pandits as a positive development, highlighting the current need for enhanced brotherhood and social unity in Jammu and Kashmir.
“It is encouraging to see Kashmiri Pandits returning to the Valley and reconnecting with their ancestral homes,” he stated.
Addressing the recent targeted killings in South Kashmir districts, Koul remarked that such incidents are not confined to a specific area. He claimed that similar occurrences happen in various parts of the world, asserting that there is no place where complete security can be guaranteed.
Koul acknowledged that Kashmiri Pandits would face challenges and struggles as they return and attempt to restart their lives in the Valley.
“Targeted killings will not cease, and fostering brotherhood is essential,” he stressed, underscoring the need to enhance social harmony.
Regarding the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, Koul pointed out that they had left the Valley even before the arrival of then-Governor Jagmohan. He alleged that some individuals in Kashmir had supported external forces at that time, which exacerbated the situation.
Koul emphasized the necessity of strengthening brotherhood among different communities to create a conducive environment for the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley.
The mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s was primarily due to severe threats from Pakistan-backed terrorists. This community left behind their properties, livelihoods, and everything they owned, barely escaping with their lives.
For the past 37 years, Kashmiri Pandits have lived as refugees in their own country. Thanks to their courage, determination, and education, they have established themselves in various parts of India and abroad.
Yet, as the saying goes, you can take a Kashmiri Pandit out of Kashmir, but you can never take Kashmir out of them.
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