Jammu, September 3 (Daily Kiran) : Political tensions are escalating in Jammu as the safety of Kashmiri Pandits comes under scrutiny. BJP and Congress leaders have responded sharply to remarks made by National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah regarding threats faced by the community and the issue of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.
BJP leader Ravinder Raina criticized Abdullah’s comments, labeling them irresponsible. He emphasized that the safety of Kashmiri Pandits should be treated as a separate issue from statehood. Raina reported that Pandits have received threatening letters and messages allegedly from terrorists. He expressed concern over the serious security challenge this poses, especially as efforts are underway for their dignified return to the valley. He insisted that restoring statehood is a constitutional matter requiring parliamentary discussion, while the threats to Kashmiri Pandits are related to law and order.
In contrast, Tarik Hamid Karra, president of Jammu and Kashmir Congress, underscored the importance of ensuring a safe and dignified return for Kashmiri Pandits. He questioned Abdullah’s specific knowledge regarding the threats and noted that political sensitivities often arise during significant events in the region. The Congress party has repeatedly raised the issue in the assembly, urging the government to act on their recommendations for the safe return of the Pandits, but has seen little progress.
On the appointment of retired Air Marshal Jitendra Mishra as the CEO of the Ram Temple Trust, Raina expressed his support, stating that Mishra was chosen after a thorough process. He urged against political commentary on this appointment, highlighting Mishra’s significant experience in the Indian Air Force as a positive asset for temple management.
Conversely, Karra acknowledged he was unfamiliar with Mishra, despite recognizing his professional credentials. He questioned the appropriateness of appointing such a senior military officer to manage a religious institution, emphasizing that the evaluation of this role should consider credibility and operational effectiveness.
Karra also raised concerns about past allegations of donation theft and financial irregularities related to the Ram Temple, calling for accountability. He argued that merely changing officials will not resolve previous issues unless a fair investigation is conducted to identify those responsible.
Regarding the case of Yasin Malik and the demand for the death penalty in the Sarla Bhatt case, Raina stated that legal procedures would be followed. Malik has previously admitted to involvement in terrorist activities, and Raina stressed that judicial processes cannot be swayed by individual desires.
On the topic of Pakistan’s call for talks about the Indus Water Treaty, Raina remarked that Pakistan cannot simultaneously promote terrorism against India while seeking water negotiations. He asserted that until Pakistan renounces terrorism, serious questions will persist regarding discussions on such issues, including water sharing.
Tensions continue to mount as both parties navigate the complex issues surrounding the safety of Kashmiri Pandits and the political implications of their return to the valley.
Leave a Comment