Kashmiri Pandit social group ‘All India Kashmiri Hindu Forum (AIKHF)’ announced on Saturday that they have merged with the Congress party in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The decision was made by party leader Ratan Lal Bhan.
Vikar Rasool Wani, president of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee, greeted the AIKHF chairman and other party leaders at their Jammu headquarters.
The AIKHF, established in 1998, brings with it a significant number of members, which Wani believes will greatly benefit the Congress.
In a statement to reporters, Wani urged other Kashmiri Pandit groups to join the Congress, citing dissatisfaction with the BJP-led central government's efforts over the past decade. He accused the BJP of exploiting the community's plight for political gain, without delivering on promises.
Bhan highlighted the support provided to Kashmiri Pandits during the tenure of the former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh-led administration. He criticised the BJP for failing to address the needs of the community.
With a sizable Pandit Diaspora community in Jammu, comprising an estimated 1.13 lakh registered Kashmiri Pandit migrant voters, their support becomes crucial in the upcoming elections. The move to align with Congress is seen as an effort to appeal to this demographic.
The Lok Sabha elections in Jammu are scheduled for April 26, and the Congress hopes to increase its chances by addressing the concerns of Pandit voters in the region.
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