Kashmiri Pandits Return to Kupwara: Signs of Changing Times

August 2, 2026

Mumbai, August 2: The return of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland is being viewed as a sign of changing times in the valley. Following the abrogation of Article 370, many displaced families have stepped back into the region. Community members express that the situation has improved significantly, fostering a sense of hope for the future.

One Kashmiri Pandit, whose family left Kashmir during the exodus in 1990 and lived in Jammu for decades, stated, “We left in the 1990s and settled in Jammu, but our hearts remained connected to our home in Kashmir. After the removal of Article 370, we had the opportunity to return. The conditions are not what they used to be, and I believe the new government has brought about positive changes. We are happy with the transformations we see today. The situation is not the same as before, and we feel a glimmer of hope now.”

Local resident and engineer Shahid Ul Islam Wani supported the return of Kashmiri Pandits. He noted, “The Kashmiri Pandit community has not only returned to Kupwara but is also working here as teachers, engineers, and clerks. This year, many have come to visit their temples. We hope more people will return. It brings us joy to see them in government offices. Although we did not experience that era ourselves, we have heard from our elders about the atmosphere of brotherhood that once existed here, and we truly miss it.”

Dr. Fida Hussain emphasized that such returns strengthen social harmony. He cited the example of a Kashmiri Pandit family opening a business outlet in Handwara, symbolizing growing trust and normalization. He remarked, “This is your home, your roots, your heritage. Everything you have is here. We urge all Kashmiri Pandits to return and become a part of Kashmir’s future.”

Many residents of Kupwara believe that the return of displaced families reflects the changes in the valley since the abrogation of Article 370. Locals are now witnessing Kashmiri Pandits working across various sectors and government departments, enhancing their participation in public life.