JAMMU, Jun 16: A meeting of the All India Migrant Camps Coordination Committee (AIMCCC) was held at Jagti Township under the chairmanship of B.K. Raina. During the meeting, members strongly criticized a recently held heritage-related programme organized under the banner of a global diaspora initiative, describing it as an attempt to divert attention from the longstanding issues faced by the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community.
Addressing the gathering, AIMCCC leaders alleged that certain self-styled leaders and vested interest groups are attempting to shift focus away from the real concerns of Kashmiri Pandits. They stated that while some participants of such programmes had earlier supported narratives presented in The Kashmir Files, they are now claiming that no one was responsible for the mass exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the Valley in 1989-90.
The committee alleged that these individuals, supported by certain NGOs, are seeking to establish leadership within the community despite having little or no connection with the struggles faced by displaced families, particularly those from rural backgrounds. AIMCCC leaders said that the community continues to fight for survival, while others are pursuing personal interests, publicity, tourism promotion and business opportunities.
The organization challenged the participants of the heritage programme to an open public debate at Srinagar’s Lal Chowk on issues related to the exodus, migration, genocide narrative, and the current heritage discourse. AIMCCC maintained that displaced Kashmiri Pandits, especially migrants living in camps and townships, are the real stakeholders of Kashmir and have been consistently raising their concerns since migration.
The committee further stated that many of those participating in such events have remained absent from grassroots struggles concerning migrant rights and welfare. AIMCCC leaders emphasized that their organization continues to work on ground-level issues affecting migrants, including sanitation, drinking water, ration supply, employment opportunities, and other basic rights. They also reiterated their opposition to discrimination and issues arising under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
Speaking on the occasion, AIMCCC leaders questioned why participants in the Srinagar programme remained silent on matters such as the exodus, migration and alleged genocide of the Kashmiri Pandit community. They argued that if complete normalcy has returned to the Valley, those advocating such narratives should consider resettling in their original homes and reconnecting with their local communities.
The meeting concluded with an appeal to Kashmiri Pandits and migrants to remain vigilant against what AIMCCC described as “double standards” and attempts to mislead the community. The organization asserted that it will continue to work for the welfare, rights and dignity of displaced Kashmiri Pandits and oppose any effort that, in its view, weakens their cause.