Mehbooba Mufti has said that the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley should not depend only on the government, but must also be led by Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits themselves through mutual trust and cooperation.
Speaking after attending a family function of a Kashmiri Pandit in Verinag, Anantnag, and later during the annual Kheer Bhawani mela in Ganderbal, the former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister stressed the need to leave the past behind and work towards a common future.
“We are one, not separate”
Addressing reporters, Mehbooba Mufti said, “We are one, not separate,” while appealing to Kashmiri Pandits to consider returning to the Valley.
She said, “We want our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters to forget what happened in the past and look forward to the future.”
Mufti highlighted that rebuilding relationships between the two communities was crucial for restoring Kashmir’s social fabric.
Kheer Bhawani mela seen as symbol of unity
Referring to the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela, Mufti described the scenes there as “heartwarming.”
She said the warmth between Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims during the mela showed that the bonds between the communities are stronger than political divisions.
In a post on social media, she wrote that the trust and affection visible at the temple “transcended walls of mistrust” built over the years.
Praises Kashmiri Pandit doctors serving the Valley
Mufti also praised Kashmiri Pandit doctors who continue to serve people in the Valley, especially those unable to travel outside for treatment.
She mentioned doctors like Sushil Razdan, U Koul and Sameer Koul for their contribution.
She said, “Their work is not just healing bodies; it is helping heal old wounds and rebuild bonds between communities.”
Mufti urged more young Kashmiri Pandit professionals to reconnect with their roots and return to the Valley.
Government asked to improve facilities for migrants
The PDP chief also called on the government to improve facilities for Kashmiri Pandits living in Kashmir, especially those employed under the Prime Minister’s package.
She pointed out that many families are living in cramped one-room accommodations and facing issues related to welfare schemes like the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
Mufti said the government should provide all facilities meant for migrant families and ensure better living conditions.
She also suggested building large residential facilities near important temples to make it easier for Kashmiri Pandits to visit and stay in the Valley.
Appeal against political exploitation
Mehbooba Mufti warned against using Kashmiri Pandits for political purposes.
She said, “Those who want to use Kashmiri Pandits as a weapon should be isolated. Pandits should maintain direct connections with Kashmiris.”
She emphasized that the relationship between Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits should be based on brotherhood, not politics.
