Glowing tribute paid to Pt Prem Nath Bhat
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 27: Glowing tribute were paid to Pt Prem Nath Bhat an RSS ideologue, a well known social reformer, free lance journalist and founder member of Swami Vivekananda Kendra Anantnag on his 35th Shaheedi Diwas which is being observed as Chetna Diwas by Kashmiri Pandit community.
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In this connection a grand programme was organsised at K K Resorts Anandnagar Bohri near here today by Pt Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust (PNBMT) in which BJP president JK UT and former Minister, Sat Sharma (CA) was the chief guest while president Jammu Bar Association Nirmal Kotwal presided over the function.
Pt Prem Nath Bhat a renowned KP leader was martyred on this day in 1989 in his hometown Anantnag Kashmir by terrorists who were against the basic idea of India.
The occasion was also dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of countless martyrs, including members of the armed and paramilitary forces who have laid down their lives in service to the nation.
The event witnessed a large gathering of dignitaries, community members and supporters.
The programme commenced with the singing of Vande Mataram, followed by a solemn two-minute silence in memory of the martyrs. Guests on the dais participated in a Pushpanjali ceremony to offer floral tribute.
Virender Raina, president of Panun Kashmir (PK) , delivered the community address. He described Shaheed Prem Nath Bhat as “a jewel in the thorny crown of Kashmir” and a saviour of the Kashmiri Pandit community both during his life and after his martyrdom.
In his speech, Raina emphasized that the return and rehabilitation of the Kashmiri Pandit community to their homeland is a deeply political issue that requires meaningful dialogue and resolution. He urged policymakers to view the community not just as an electoral minority but as a significant force in Kashmir’s polity, backed by civilizational strength.
Raina also raised several key issues faced by the KP community, including: The passage of the Temples and Shrines Bill to safeguard religious heritage, recognition of the KP community as a minority and internally displaced group, addressing the challenges of overage and unemployed youth within the community, resolving disputes over the usurpation of immovable properties in Kashmir, revisiting the Distress Sale Act, which he termed a “toothless” piece of legislation improving living conditions and water supply in Jagti township, along with the maintenance of dilapidated flats.
In a special segment of the event, two martyrs of the KP community were posthumously honored. They included Jagar Nath Pandita of Handwara and Ashok Kumar Raina of Tailwani Achabal, Anantnag.
Their citations were read by Rimmi Raina and PNBMT activist Naveen Handoo, respectively.
In his address Sat Sharma, lauded the Kashmiri Pandit community for their resilience and unwavering commitment to the nation. He highlighted the pivotal role of the BJP in removing Article 370 and assured the gathering that the party remains committed to addressing all outstanding issues of the KP community. He recalled his association with Shaheed Tika Lal Taploo.
In his presidential address, Nirmal Kotwal paid rich tribute to Shaheed Prem Nath Bhat and highlighted the historical contributions of the KPs to national cause. He said that as the president of the Bar Council he will stand shoulder to shoulder with the community in their struggle.
Swami Kumar also addressed the gathering.
The event included a soulful rendition of Vande Mataram and national Anthem by Aastha Zar, which captivated the audience.
The Chairman of the Trust, Roshan Lal Pandita, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all for making the occasion meaningful and memorable.
Ramesh Marhatta conducted the proceedings of the function.
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