Srinagar, Jun 02: Peoples Democratic Party president and former J&K Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Monday advocated for political reservation for Kashmiri Pandits, stating that addressing their marginalization would also help erase the long-standing stain unfairly associated with Kashmiri Muslims.
Speaking to media persons at her Gupkar residence following her meeting with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Mehbooba as per news agency JKNS said, “Kashmiri Pandits should be given representation through proper reservation, not symbolic nominations. True empowerment will pave the way for reintegration.”
She said she placed several concerns before the LG, including the demand for the release of individuals detained under minor charges ahead of Eid and ensuring local involvement in managing the annual Amarnath pilgrimage.
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Mehbooba said that the return of the displaced community would only be possible through their political and social empowerment. “The time has come to collectively correct the historical narrative and show solidarity with our Pandit brethren,” she said.
She also said that the importance of involving local people in Yatra arrangements, noting their long-standing role in facilitating the pilgrimage. “Locals have always supported smooth conduct of the Yatra and must remain part of the process,” she added.
She said, “Those with no serious allegations should be released on the occasion of Eid, and those jailed outside J&K must be brought back closer to home.”
Asked about the current government, Mehbooba took a swipe at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. “Unfortunately, he’s undermining his own elected setup. Instead of raising important issues like the Waqf Bill, he chose to welcome a Union Minister at the Tulip Garden.”
She said that she had also conveyed these concerns to Omar Abdullah and was hopeful the administration would act on them. (JKNS)
