Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha praised the perseverance of Kashmiri Pandits in upholding the essence of Kashmir amidst challenges. He unveiled a book by Prof. Ashok Koul titled ‘Kashmir — Nativity Regained’, shedding light on the Kashmiri Pandit exodus and the hardships faced during that period. Sinha emphasized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to ensuring the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits.
The Lt Governor highlighted the significant transformation in Jammu and Kashmir since 2019, thwarting attempts to disrupt the region’s progress. He expressed optimism about the eradication of terrorism from the land and the restoration of its ancient glory. Sinha lauded Prof. Kaul’s book as a crucial step in breaking the silence surrounding past events.
Reflecting on the pain of displacement experienced by Kashmiri Pandits, Sinha underscored the lasting impact of the violence and killings in 1989–90. He denounced the terrorists responsible for the atrocities and emphasized the importance of remembering the past while moving towards reconciliation. Sinha also mentioned the launch of the Kashmiri Migrant portal in 2021 to assist in reclaiming properties encroached upon.
The Lt Governor stressed the need for the younger generation to acknowledge the sufferings of both Kashmiri Pandits and Muslims at the hands of terrorists. He noted ongoing efforts to provide justice and support to affected families, including addressing employment needs. Sinha praised Prof. Kaul’s work for highlighting the resilience and cultural heritage of the Kashmiri Pandit community.
In a period of reconstruction, Lt Governor Sinha emphasized the integral role of the Kashmiri Pandit community in Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural narrative. The book release ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, literary figures, and students, underscoring the importance of preserving and honoring the region’s diverse heritage.
