New Delhi- In a significant step towards reconciliation, a high-level meeting between Kashmiri Pandit representatives and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was held in New Delhi.
During his opening remarks, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq emphasized on the “shared suffering”of both Kashmiri Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits over the decades, a statement issued after the meeting held at JW Marriott in the capital said.
Mirwaiz, according the statement acknowledged the “painful exodus” of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989-90, a chapter that he said continues to affect both communities. Mirwaiz reaffirmed that the plight of Kashmiri Pandits is a humanitarian issue and must be addressed with care and urgency. He also stated: “Kashmir is incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits.”
“The suffering of Kashmiri Pandits needs to be addressed earnestly, and this has been a point I have raised repeatedly in my discourses.”
“The younger generation must be made aware of Kashmir’s composite culture,” he said.
In response, the Kashmiri Pandit delegation reminded Mirwaiz of the deep hardships they have faced as a community after their exodus. “We suffered in scorching heat, snake bites, selling all earnings, properties to educate our children”. The delegation highlighted that, despite being forced out of their homeland, Pandits have always extended support to their Muslim brethren in times of distress. They emphasized that religious leaders, particularly Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, hold the moral authority to lead this initiative given their influence across the region. Furthermore, the delegation reminded Mirwaiz that “as the spiritual leader of Kashmir, he represents not just the Muslim community, but also all minorities.”
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq later announced the formation of an Inter-Community Committee to facilitate the safe return of Kashmiri Pandits, promote economic development, and preserve Kashmir’s composite cultural heritage. He acknowledged the suffering of the Pandit community, calling their exodus a humanitarian issue that must be addressed with urgency and compassion.
The committee, according to the statement, will also explore government-supported rehabilitation initiatives, including inclusive housing projects, to assist returning families.
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