Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 20: The Kashmiri Pandits of Gurugram and neighbouring areas gathered at Gurugram to observe Exodus Day ‘Nishkasan Diwas.’ The event marked the solemn 35th year of exile for the community from their ancestral land of Kashyap Bhumi, Kashmir.
A seminar was organized under the banner of “Kashmir Peace Lovers” to reflect on the tragic date when the aborigines native community was forced to leave their homes. Over one hundred Kashmiri Pandits and patriots from Gurugram participated in the seminar, dedicating themselves to the pursuit of reclaiming their motherland and working towards the restoration of peace in the land of their ancestors. The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the enduring challenges faced by the community, highlighting their resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Renowned speakers such as Ashok Bhan, senior Advocate Supreme Court of India, Dr. Raj Nehru, Vice Chancellor of Shri Vishwakarma Skill University, Reena N Singh, a prominent social activist and Advocate Supreme Court of India, and Rajesh Pandit, IT Entrepreneur, shared insights and perspectives. Emphasizing the need for solidarity, understanding, and support, speakers discussed the complex issues confronting the displaced community. The absence of a concrete policy for the return to their homes and hearths (“Ghar Vapsi”) after 35 years remains a significant challenge, prompting a call for action from individuals and organizations to contribute actively to justice and peace restoration.
Senior Adv Ashok Bhan gave a detail report on the statements made by Human Right Commission who termed the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits akin to Genicide. He highlighted the Supreme Court’s opinion to constitute a truth & reconciliation commission. He reminded that PM Modi has promised the repatriation of displaced community back in the Valley. He said after Lord Ram’s Gharvapsi to Ayodhya on 22 nd the PM is morally & constitutionally obliged to plan secured and empowered Gharvapsi for the seven lakh of Kashmiri Pandits back to Valley their roots engraved for 5099 years.
Dr Raj Nehru said that time has come when community has to have a forward thinking approach and collaborate and influence all stakeholders and through their diplomacy get favourable policies created .
A holocaust photographic exhibition documented the tragic events of that day, symbolizing hope, unity, and unwavering determination to overcome the trials of the past.