spiritual-leader-mirwaiz-vows-kashmiri-pandit-resettlement-in-valley

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has pledged to assist in facilitating the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Kashmir Valley. According to reports, a high-level meeting between migrant Kashmiri Pandit representatives and the Mirwaiz was held in New Delhi.

In his opening remarks, Mirwaiz emphasised the “shared sufferings” of both Kashmiri Muslims and Kashmiri Pandits over the decades.

In a statement released following the meeting, he acknowledged the “painful exodus” of Kashmiri Pandits in 1989-90, describing it as a chapter that continues to affect both communities.

He said that “the plight of Kashmiri Pandits is purely a humanitarian issue and must be addressed with care and urgency,” adding, “Kashmir is incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits.”

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“The suffering of Kashmiri Pandits must be addressed earnestly and honestly, and this has been a point I have raised repeatedly in my discourses,” he continued. “The younger generation from both sides must be made aware of Kashmir’s composite culture.”

In response, the Kashmiri Pandit delegation reminded Mirwaiz of the deep hardships they have faced as a community since their migration.

“We suffered in scorching heat, snake bites, sold all our belongings, and sacrificed to educate our children,” they said.

The delegation also extended their support to their Muslim brethren in times of distress. They highlighted that religious leaders, particularly Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, possess the moral authority to lead this initiative, given their influence across the region.

Furthermore, they reminded Mirwaiz that “as the spiritual leader of Kashmir, he represents not only the Muslim community but also all minorities, including the Pandits, Sikhs, and Christians living in the region.”

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.

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