Excelsior Correspondent
-Excelsior/Rakesh
JAMMU, Sept 20: A delegation of Kashmiri Hindus called on Union Minister of State in PMO with Independent Charge of North Eastern States, Dr Jitendra Singh here today and expressed serious concern over the condition of Hindu shrines and temples in Valley which are the cultural and religious symbols of Hindus existence in Kashmir.
The delegation which was led by Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo president PK informed the Union Minister that these shrines and temples remain uncared for and are in a state of continuous neglect.
The other members of the delegation included senior KP leader and president AIKPC, H N Jattu, D N Kissu, chairman All Displaced Kashmiri Pandit United Front (ADKPUF), Virender Raina national spokesperson PK, Vijay Qazi, M M Gadroo and Dinesh Gupta social activists, Sameer Bhat convener PK Youth and Nana Ji Raina, president Sharda Colony Sector IInd.
The delegation appealed the Union Minister to use his good offices in evolving a consensus among the various stakeholders in this connection for the resolution of temples and shrines issue. It said all the Hindu shrines and temples in Kashmir are a common heritage of the Hindu society and are in need of an effective protective mechanism duly constituted under law with representative character from Hindu community of Kashmir.
Exuding confidence in Dr Singh the Kashmiri Hindu representatives who also submitted a memorandum to him said that he (Dr Singh) has always espoused the cause of displaced Hindus from Valley and the community has expectations that he will use his good offices in evolving a consensus among the various stakeholders for the smooth resolution of the temples and shrines issue.
The memorandum also turned the attention of the Union Minister towards the deteriorating security scenario in Kashmir and said that the Valley seems to have become a heaven for the anti national elements and there are reports of the large scale radicalization of the youth in Kashmir. The continued firing across the border and regular infiltration bids by Pakistan has created a sense of disquiet among the people of the State, it added.
It also expressed concern over waving of Pakistan and ISIS flags in Kashmir. However, the delegation appreciated the tough stand taken by the Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding talks with Pakistan.
The delegation demanded that principle of any future engagement with Pakistan should be the Parliamentary resolution of 1994 regarding J&K State, unequivocally declaring that J&K is a settled issue and an inalienable part of India.
Dr Singh while appreciating the concern shown by the delegation said the Shrines in Kashmir are heritage monuments and their protection and upkeep is must for the posterity as they are the symbols of the ancient culture and civilization.
He assured the delegation that all possible steps will be taken by the Government and the concern shown by the Kashmiri Hindus will be taken care of.
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