JAMMU, Sep 13: The All State Kashmiri Pandit Ekta Munch today observed September 13 as a Black Day for the Kashmiri Pandit community at Jagti Township, Jammu. The programme was organised under the banner of the All State Kashmiri Pandit Ekta Munch to remember the suffering, struggle and tragedy faced by the community in Kashmir.
The programme was held under the leadership of President Chand Ji Khair, Chairman Ashok Ji Koul, Chand Ji Bhat, General Secretary Vijay Saproo and Ramesh Kumar Raina, along with other senior members of the community. Members from Nagrota, Muthi, Durga Nagar, Purkhoo, Buta Nagar camps and various non-camp areas participated in the programme. Prominent participants included Kuku Ji Koul of Purkhoo Camp, Vimal Hangloo, Rattan Lal Pandita of Buta Nagar Camp and Avtar Krishan Naag of Muthi Camp, among others.
Addressing the gathering, the leaders said that September 13 is observed to remember the pain, struggle and tragedy endured by the Kashmiri Pandit community in Kashmir. They said the day serves as a reminder of the targeted killings and atrocities against innocent members of the community, which ultimately contributed to the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley during 1989-90.
The leaders said that even after 36 years, a large section of the community continues to await justice, rehabilitation and an opportunity to return to their homeland with dignity, honour and security. They stressed the need for concrete measures to address the long-standing concerns of the displaced community and ensure a secure and dignified future for Kashmiri Pandits.
On the occasion, rich tributes were paid to all those who lost their lives and sacrificed themselves for the community. The participants also observed a two-minute silence in memory of the departed souls and prayed for their peace.
The Munch called upon the J&K Government and the Government of India to frame a comprehensive policy for the economic, political and social development of the Kashmiri Pandit community. It also demanded a proper survey of the properties left behind by Kashmiri Pandits in the Kashmir Valley and sought compensation for properties that have been damaged or encroached upon.
The organisation further demanded that all PM Package employees working in the Valley be provided secure accommodation in accordance with the per-person accommodation provision of 2008. The Munch also urged the Government of India to officially recognise September 13 as a day of remembrance and take concrete, time-bound measures for the return and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in their homeland.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks.