Jammu, Apr 1 (JKNS): The Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that protecting the properties and religious shrines of displaced Kashmiri Pandits remains a key responsibility of the government until their safe and dignified return to the Valley is ensured.
Speaking in the Assembly while responding to a private member’s bill moved by NC legislator Arjun Singh Raju, as per news agency JKNS, Chief Minister said the government is open to enacting a law on the issue, provided there is broader consensus within the community. The proposed bill sought improved management and protection of Kashmiri Hindu shrines and religious sites in the Union Territory.
Omar Abdullah noted that the migration of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s took place under extremely difficult circumstances after their security was compromised, adding that their return cannot be expected unless a sense of safety is fully restored. He said successive governments at both the Centre and in J&K have reiterated their commitment towards facilitating their dignified return, but the necessary conditions are yet to be achieved.
He emphasized that till such time, it is the government’s duty to ensure protection of their land, properties and religious places. Recalling past measures, he said that after the 1996 elections, the then NC government had introduced legislation to prevent distress sale or transfer of properties belonging to Kashmiri Pandits.
The Chief Minister also remarked that while narratives around the plight of Kashmiri Pandits often gain attention, there are instances where local Kashmiri Muslims have safeguarded temples in their absence. He assured that all efforts will be made to preserve these religious institutions.
Highlighting differences within communities over such legislation, Abdullah said any move without consensus could create further divisions. He added that even a similar bill introduced by him earlier had faced opposition from sections of the Pandit community.
Following the discussion, Arjun Singh Raju withdrew the bill after expressing satisfaction with the Chief Minister’s response. (JKNS)
