Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 13: Youth All India Kashmiri Samaj (YAIKS) has demanded framing out of a comprehensive return policy for settlement and rehabilitation of displaced Pandits in Kashmir Valley. The demand was made in its General Council meeting recently in which an Action Plan for the year 2025 was chalked out. The copy of action plan was handed over to Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner, Dr Arvind Karwani by president YAIKS R K Bhat here, today. He said the copy of the same will also be submitted to Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, Chief Secretary, and Union Government.
Bhat said “It is high time for the Modi Government, to address the plight of the Kashmiri Pandit community, who are living in exile for 35 years. The Government must move beyond symbolic gestures and implement action programme for KPs rehabilitation. If not now, then when?” He expressed optimism that the Pandits’ return could become a reality under the Modi regime but warned against further delay.
YAIKS also criticized the lack of discussion in the UT Assembly on the resettlement of KPs, despite their historical significance as the aboriginal community of the Valley. The organization urged the Omar Abdullah- Government to introduce and pass a resolution in the Assembly for their comprehensive rehabilitation in their land of origin.
It alleged that the Government never prioritised KPs return and highlighted the irony of KPs remaining refugees under different political systems and demanded action before the region regains statehood.
Complimenting the Central Government for reserving two Assembly seats for displaced Kashmiri’s, YAIKS demanded a transparent and democratic mechanism for electing representatives as MLA’s. It proposed that internal community elections for reserved seats be held under Government supervision to prevent manipulation by vested interests.
The protection of temples and shrines was also discussed in the meeting and Government was appealed to ensure the protection, preservation and restoration of temples and Shrines in Kashmir Valley, which will help to get community reconnected with its lost roots and civilisation.
It advocated for 15,000 additional jobs under PM’ package for the unemployed displaced youth, including the LOC aspirants with one-time compensation of at least Rs.35 lac for the overaged section of the community, enhancement of cash assistance in favor of the relief holders, besides demanding welfare of the Valley posted migrant employees.
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