The ongoing debate surrounding the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley reveals a stark divide within the community. While a section is in favor of returning, a larger group raises pertinent questions: ‘Why were we forced to flee in the first place, subjected to violence, and terrorized by extremists? What guarantees are there that we won’t face the same fate as we did 33 years ago?’
The idea of creating a separate homeland for Kashmiri Pandits within the Valley is appealing in theory but fraught with challenges in practice. Even if the government allocates land for such a settlement, the enormity of developing the necessary infrastructure—housing, education, employment opportunities, healthcare, transportation, and security—is daunting.
Unlike the cases of newly formed states like Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana, where boundaries were redrawn without mass displacement, the situation in Kashmir is unique. Here, the displaced Pandits would need to return from across the country and resettle in a volatile region. Providing them with adequate facilities and ensuring their security would require substantial time, resources, and commitment.
This predicament reminds me of an incident from 1966. Having secured a new job in Rajasthan through the Public Service Commission, I found myself in a city and among people unfamiliar to me. In our staff room, conversations about Kashmir were common. Many colleagues would remark: “Nehru made a mistake by not removing Article 370. People from across India should be allowed to settle in Kashmir. It’s such a beautiful place!”
For a long time, I merely listened. But one day, I responded: “If anyone truly wishes to settle there, give me your name.”
The reaction was predictable. My colleagues looked around sheepishly before replying: “We’re content here. Why would we leave? We have jobs, homes, businesses, and family ties here. Why take such a risk?” This reaction mirrors the current sentiment of many displaced Kashmiri Pandits. After over three decades of exile, they and their younger generations have painstakingly rebuilt their lives. They’ve established themselves in new regions through hard work and resilience. Understandably, most are reluctant to uproot their lives once again to face an uncertain future.
Over 33 years of exile have imparted invaluable lessons to the Kashmiri Pandit community, transforming them into a resilient, self-reliant, and resourceful group. Wherever they have settled, they’ve excelled and carved out a niche for themselves. However, the cost of this displacement is evident in the gradual erosion of their cultural heritage. Without a concentrated cultural hub, the community risks losing its distinct identity over time. There may come a day when only names and surnames remain as remnants of a once-thriving culture.
The harsh truth is that governments often prioritize vote banks in their decision-making. For most political parties, Kashmiri Pandits are not a significant vote bank but rather a tool to generate political rhetoric. Consequently, their plight does not receive the attention or action it truly deserves.
In conclusion, while the idea of returning to the Valley or creating a separate homeland may seem noble, the practical and emotional barriers are immense. The Kashmiri Pandit community’s resilience and success in exile are commendable, but the long-term loss of cultural identity remains a pressing concern that requires introspection and genuine efforts for preservation.
The writer is former Fellow, IIAS Shimla.
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