'Hopeful about future,' say Kashmiri Pandits who returned home after years of exile
Jammu, Aug 2
The rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in their homeland, Jammu and Kashmir, remains a far-fetched dream for now, but those who have returned are hopeful of a bright future for the community and see the abrogation of Article 370 as the foundation for "unprecedented changes" in future.
Several Kashmiri Pandits and local residents say the return of displaced families to the Valley reflects changing times after the revocation of Article 370.
Several members of the community said that they are witnessing noticeable changes and feel more hopeful about the future.
One Kashmiri Pandit, whose family left Kashmir during the migration of 1990 and lived in Jammu for decades, shared that although they built a life elsewhere, their hearts always remained in Kashmir.
"We migrated from here in the 1990s and settled in Jammu, but even while living there, our hearts always remained with our home in Kashmir. After the abrogation of Article 370, we got an opportunity to return. The situation is no longer what it used to be, and with the new government, I believe there has been a significant positive change," said a Kashmiri Pandit.
"We are happy with the changes we have seen. The situation today is not what it was in the past, and we feel there is now a sense of hope," he added.
Local residents are also expressing support for the cause. They pointed to recent examples, including a Kashmiri Pandit family opening a business outlet in Handwara, calling it a positive step that symbolises growing confidence and normalcy.
According to the locals, such developments strengthen social harmony and encourage more displaced families to consider returning to their ancestral homes.
A local resident said, "Members of the Kashmiri Pandit community have not only returned to Kupwara but are also working here as teachers, engineers and clerks. This year, many visited their temples in large numbers. We want more of them to return. Whenever we see them in government offices, it makes us happy. We did not witness those times ourselves, but we have heard from our elders about the atmosphere of brotherhood that once existed here, and we truly miss it."
Another resident made an appeal saying, "This is your home, your roots, your heritage. Everything that belongs to you is here. We request all Kashmiri Pandits to come back and be a part of Kashmir's future."
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is a very emotional topic for so many families. I'm glad to see the local Kashmiri residents welcoming them back with open arms. The appeal from the local resident—"This is your home"—is so touching. It shows the inherent brotherhood that exists in Kashmir, beyond politics. Let's hope for lasting peace.
While it's great that some have returned, we must not forget that Article 370 abrogation is only a step. The real test is ensuring complete security, economic opportunities, and a sense of belonging for every community. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves; the ground reality is still complex. But the optimism is a good sign.
It's really nice to see stories of hope and reconciliation from Kashmir. The cultural fabric of the valley is so rich, and having the Pandit community back enriches it further. Really hope this trend continues and more families feel safe enough to return. Best wishes to all!
As a Kashmiri Pandit whose family lives in exile in Delhi, this brings tears to my eyes. We never lost hope. The local Muslim brothers and sisters welcoming us back shows the true spirit of Kashmiriyat. This is the India we believe in. 🙏
I'm from the US and have been following the Kashmir situation for years. The narrative of returning and reconciliation is often lost in the headlines. It's uplifting to read about local support and the rebuilding of lives. Here's hoping for sustained peace and prosperity for all Kashmiris.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.