The return of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland remains one of the most important unresolved issues in the history of Jammu and Kashmir. Thousands of families had to leave their homes, ancestral properties and familiar surroundings under extremely difficult circumstances. More than three decades later, the aspiration to return with dignity, security and confidence continues to be strong. Any meaningful effort towards reconciliation and lasting peace in Kashmir Valley must address this long-standing concern. The inauguration of 1,416 transit accommodation flats at Zewan in Srinagar, Kakan Maran in Budgam and Kulangam Bagh in Kupwara is a step in this direction. The facilities have been constructed for employees appointed under the PM Package. With these additions, the Government has taken a step towards providing better living conditions to Kashmiri Pandit employees serving in the Valley. The larger project envisages 6,000 flats across 20 locations in 10 districts. More than 5,200 flats have been completed, while over 3,800 have already been allotted. These figures indicate progress in creating residential infrastructure for the displaced Pandit community. “Kashmir is incomplete without Kashmiri Pandits and it is deprived of a precious part of its soul. Dignified return of Kashmiri Pandit families is a commitment to restoring the historical heritage and human dignity of the Kashmir Division. This entire region’s natural, cultural, and spiritual beauty will attain completeness only when Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters return to their homeland with respect, security, and confidence,” Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said after inaugurating the facilities on Sunday. Emphasising that the completion of the flats marked the beginning of a new responsibility, the Lieutenant Governor called for uninterrupted electricity and water supply, robust security arrangements, effective waste management and prompt grievance redressal. While transit accommodation primarily addresses the immediate residential needs of employees appointed under the PM Package, the larger challenge is to create conditions in which displaced families can voluntarily return to their ancestral homes and rebuild their lives without fear or uncertainty. The distinction between providing temporary accommodation for employees and facilitating the permanent return of families must be recognised. Security remains a major concern. Families who have lived outside Kashmir for decades need assurance that their lives, livelihoods and properties will be protected. Equally important are employment opportunities, educational facilities, healthcare, civic amenities and a sense of social acceptance. A return cannot be sustainable if people remain confined to residential complexes without meaningful interaction with the wider community. They must be able to live, work and participate in the social and cultural life of Kashmir. Equally necessary is a comprehensive rehabilitation policy that addresses the concerns of displaced families, including property disputes, compensation and livelihood opportunities. Kashmiri Pandits are an inseparable part of Kashmir’s history and identity. Their contribution to its literature, language, scholarship, spiritual traditions and cultural heritage is immense. Rebuilding trust between communities is equally important. Kashmir Valley’s civilisational strength has always rested on its diversity and shared traditions. Reviving that spirit requires sincerity, dialogue and sustained efforts.
Dignified Return
