NewKerala.com

"Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus Was Our Biggest Loss," Says Farooq Abdullah

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah stated that the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits was the biggest loss to the region, appealing for their return. He emphasized that Kashmir belongs to all communities, including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs. Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir LG Manoj Sinha linked the region's drug trade to terrorism, announcing a 100-day campaign. The campaign focuses on disrupting supply chains, raising awareness, and providing rehabilitation.

Key Points: Farooq Abdullah: Kashmiri Pandits' Exodus Was Biggest Loss

  • Farooq Abdullah calls Kashmiri Pandit exodus biggest loss
  • He appeals for return of all communities
  • LG Sinha links drug trade to terrorism
  • New 100-day campaign launched against narco-terror
2 min read

Kashmiri Pandits' departure was biggest loss to this region: Farooq Abdullah

Farooq Abdullah appeals for return of Kashmiri Pandits, calls their exodus the biggest loss. LG Sinha links drug trade to terrorism in J&K.

"Their departure was the biggest loss this region has suffered. - Farooq Abdullah"

Srinagar, May 3

National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Saturday appealed for the return of the Kashmiri Pandit community, reiterating that valley belongs to people of all communities.

Speaking at the book launch of prominent Kashmiri Pandit Dr. Sushil Razdan, the JKNC President stated that the exodus of the Kashmiri Pandit community was the biggest loss caused to the region.

"I pray to Allah that those who left this place are brought back to their homes to live in prosperity once again. We have lost so much; their departure was the biggest loss this region has suffered. Kashmir belongs to all communities, Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs alike; that is what defines Kashmir. Let us hope that one day, we see that Kashmir restored," former J-K Chief Minister said.

Due to onset of militancy in 1990, most of the Kashmiri Pandit families along with some families of Sikhs and Muslims migrated from Kashmir Valley [total of about 57,000 families] to Jammu, Delhi and other places of the country.

Meanwhile, in a stern address regarding the rising tide of substance abuse in the Union Territory, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has linked the region's drug trade directly to terrorism.

Announcing a rigorous new offensive, the LG detailed a comprehensive plan to dismantle what he termed a "serious threat" to the youth of J-K.

Building on the foundation of the national 'Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan' launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020, LG Sinha emphasised that the challenge in Jammu and Kashmir carries a darker, more strategic layer.

To combat this, the J-K administration launched a specialised 100-day campaign on April 11, focusing on a holistic "3-P" approach: Disruption by decimating the supply chain and narco-terror networks; Awareness through grassroots education to reach every single individual; and Recovery through treatment and rehabilitation for those already victimised.

LG Sinha credited the "some success" already achieved to the seamless coordination between the administration, the police, and the general public. He noted that the initiative has moved beyond government policy to become a community movement.

As the 100-day campaign progresses, the administration aims to not only rehabilitate those struggling with addiction but also to secure the border against the "supply chain" that fuels both dependency and militancy.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see a political leader acknowledge the loss so openly. The drug problem linked to terrorism is equally concerning—targeting youth through addiction is a silent war. The 100-day campaign sounds promising, but sustained effort will be key. Hope the ground reality matches the rhetoric.
P
Priya S
Yaar, this is heartbreaking. My grandmother used to tell me stories of Kashmir where everyone celebrated festivals together. The Pandits leaving was like losing a part of our family. But I'm skeptical—will they really feel safe returning? Need concrete security guarantees, not just speeches. Also, linking drugs to terrorism is an important angle LG Sinha is highlighting. 👏
M
Michael C
Three decades and still no resolution—how many more generations will lose their homeland? Abdullah's words are welcome but hollow without implementation. The narco-terrorism nexus is a real threat; glad to see it being addressed with a structured campaign. Let's hope both issues get the serious attention they deserve.
V
Vikram M
Honestly, respect to Farooq sahab for saying this publicly. The composite culture of Kashmir was what made it heaven on earth. But I worry about the youth being pulled into drugs and extremism—it's a double-edged crisis. The 3-P approach is a good start, but rehabilitation centers need to be world-class. Kashmir needs healing, not just politics.
E
Emma D
The parallel between cultural loss and the drug crisis is striking. When communities fracture, vulnerabilities increase. Abdullah's acknowledgment of loss is important, but I'd like to see cross-community initiatives that rebuild trust. The drug-terror connection isn't new, but a 100

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50