S.K. Koul
“Kashmiri Pandit, Bujte Chirag” by P.L. Koul Badgami is the latest book on Kashmiri Pandit exodus to hit the stands. The book, to put it in the words of Dr. Kashi Nath Pandita, is the reflection of bitter truths spoken truthfully and honestly. Whatever Mr Badgami has put forth regarding political, historical or cultural happening is coming out straight from the heart, he being not only the observer but also a victim of events as well.
The book besides giving a graphic account of the shameful events of 1990 also raises the often repeated question as to the reasons which led to the exodus. The mayhem let loose on the miniscule minority, to uproot them from the land they had inhabited for more than five thousand years besides being utterly shameful is also a reflection of the utter cowardice of the forces who unleashed the barbaric acts. Kashmiriyat was put to shape and sword and the joint culture and peaceful co-existence which was the hallmark for both Punidts and Muslims got hundred thousand cuts to get deshaped and mutilated.
The situation turned so grim in the valley that it seemed as if the collective conscience of an otherwise largely co-operative majority community was totally hijacked and the whole community become dum at times passive onlookers or active connivers, shaking the faith of the besieged minority. Pundits were reduced to the lowest levels of helplessness.
It is a fact that education has stood the communityin good stead, yet the social structure seems to be crumbling,bemoans Badgami.
Badgami also shares his thoughts about massive re-roganization and rehabilitation programme regarding Kashmiri Pundits. Badgami also raises fingers on the sincerity of both central and State Governments with regards to the settlements of Kashmiri Pundits. There is a telling example of discrimination against KashmiriPundits where even the Supreme Court judgement regarding payment of H.R.A. to the migrant Government employees has been interpreted by the State Government in a manner which debars migrant employees of their due arrears.
Badgami also seems to be agreeing with those who feel that Muslims far from being a harmonious community have strong heterogeneous elements who could be convinced about the futile war raised by jehadi elements. For this he feels that administrators need to have a sincere will.
The book also includes list of those Kashmiri Pundits, killed by militants.
The paper used for the cover page of the book is not as one would fancy. The photograph of the writer is not distinctly visible.
Overall, this over 100 page book reasonably priced at Rs. 100 is a readable and useful material based on shared experiences. The diction is compelling and forceful-a true reflection of the personality of the social activist, author.
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