SRINAGAR: A delegation of Kashmiri Pandits visiting the valley in connection with Meala Kheer Bhawani, called on APHC chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq at his Nigeen residence on Tuesday.
The delegation was led by Satish Kumar and Nathil Razdan who are a group of ordinary Kashmiris and not affiliated with any political organization. Members of the delegation told Mirwaiz that they and hundreds like them are extremely eager to return to their homeland and seek his help in this regard.
In a statement, Hurriyat spokesman said that they do not want to live in separate and segregated colonies as is being suggested by authorities. They further said that as land prices are much high than since before, hence would not be able to afford individual plots and homes. So they suggested that in each district of the valley some land may be allocated to them where they can build affordable flats in which they can live. They said that members of other communities can also buy flats there if they want. They do not want segregation but want to live together.
According to the spokesperson, the delegation told the Mirwaiz that they being a part and parcel of the Kashmir society and its composite ethos, are as much pained by what is happening here as there Muslim brethren. They said that many claims to represent them, but in reality, most are exploiting their situation and there the deep emotional desire to come back, rather than doing much about it.
Mirwaiz told the delegation that he empathises with their pining to return and assured them that all Kashmiri Muslims want them to come back and live together as before, as Kashmir belongs to them as much as it does to those who did not leave. He assured them of all help and assistance in their suggestion which he said he found sincere and sensible. He said he will help in building a consensus around it among all segments of people and will try to bring others on board.
At the end of the meeting, it was decided that members of the delegation will stay in touch with the Mirwaiz and work on the idea to concretize it and take it forward.