On January 19, the Kashmiri Pandit community observes Remembrance Day, also known as Exodus Day, to mourn the loss of their homes, culture, and lives. This day marks the forced exodus of thousands of Kashmiri Pandits from the Kashmir Valley due to targeted attacks from militants. Despite disputed numbers, the harrowing reality of the violence and genocide against the minority community cannot be denied. The lack of intervention from the government and law enforcement agencies only adds to the pain and trauma of the Kashmiri Pandit community.
Conservative MP Bob Blackman has tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons to mark the 35th anniversary of the coordinated attacks on the minority Hindu population of Kashmir valley. The motion condemns the atrocities committed against the Kashmiri Pandit community and calls on the UK and Indian governments to recognize and acknowledge the genocide. It also urges the UK government to commemorate January 19 as Kashmiri Pandit Exodus Day. The motion has no supporting signatures as of now, making the first six MPs supporting the motion its sponsors.
In a scathing criticism of former Chief Ministers of Kashmir, Dr. Abhijeet Jasrotia of the BJP condemned Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti for their alleged divisive politics and failure to protect the rights and safety of minorities. He highlighted the ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pandits and the Nadimarg massacre, holding the leadership responsible for prioritizing political gains over justice. In contrast, he praised the BJP-led Government's inclusive development initiatives and called for rejecting divisive politics for the sake of peace and progress in the region.
The Jammu Development Authority has sparked protests after demolishing a dozen shops belonging to displaced Kashmiri Pandits in Jammu city without issuing notices. The demolition drive targeted shops built near the Muthi camp three decades ago, leading to demands for action against the officials responsible. Relief Commissioner Arvind Karwani has vowed to construct new shops for the affected families in the area.
In an exclusive interview, socio-political activist Sanjay Tickoo shares his views on the current state of Kashmiri Pandits and their rights in the upcoming Indian elections. As a Kashmiri Pandit himself who chose to stay in the Valley during the peak of terrorism, he sheds light on the struggles and issues faced by the community, including the lack of mention of their rehabilitation in the BJP manifesto. Tickoo's perspective offers a rare insight into the life of Kashmiri Pandits who stayed behind.
The MPs condemned the desecration of holy sites in Jammu and Kashmir and expressed concerns that those who fled persecution have not yet received justice or recognition for the atrocities committed against them.