Tahir Bhat Banhali
The demand for a “one-place settlement at the land of Kashyap Bhoomi” for displaced Kashmiri Pandits in the Kashmir Valley, the sacred land, is not merely a plea for rehabilitation, it is a clarion call for justice, identity, and survival. This long-standing demand underscores the community’s right to live with dignity in their ancestral land and symbolizes their unyielding bond with Kashmir’s cultural, spiritual, and historical fabric.
Kashmir, known as the land of Kashyap Rishi, is the spiritual cradle of Kashmiri Pandits. For centuries, the community thrived as the torchbearers of Kashmir’s rich culture, heritage, and knowledge. The forced exodus in 1990 shattered this bond, turning them into refugees in their own country. This tragic displacement uprooted an ancient civilization from its sacred soil, causing irreparable damage to their co–existence and identify in the valley.
A one-place settlement would not just provide a home but also restore their deep-rooted connection to their land, temples, traditions, of ancestors. It would serve as a testament to their resilience and determination to reclaim their rightful place in history.
The 1990 exodus was marked by targeted killings, threats, and violence. Scattered resettlement increases vulnerability and poses challenges in ensuring collective security. A concentrated settlement ensures enhanced security measures, allowing the community to live without fear and with a renewed sense of safety.
Kashmiri Pandit culture is a treasure trove of ancient knowledge, art, and philosophy. Scattered living dilutes cultural practices, traditions, and identity. A single settlement would act as a hub for the revival and preservation of Kashmiri Pandit culture, language, rituals, and festivals. It would become a center of cultural renaissance, radiating knowledge and wisdom.
The displacement fragmented the community, dispersing them across the country and the globe. This fragmentation weakened their social structure and mutual support system. Living together in one place fosters unity, mutual support, and collective growth, essential for their socio-economic and emotional revival.
A unified settlement can house schools, colleges, and training centers tailored to the needs of the community. These institutions would not only nurture the younger generation but also serve as centers for skill development and knowledge dissemination. Additionally, such settlements can become hubs for entrepreneurship, handicrafts, and local industries, ensuring economic self-reliance and dignity for the displaced population.
A one-place settlement sends a strong message that the Indian state acknowledges and rectifies the injustices inflicted on Kashmiri Pandits. It restores faith in the principles of equality, justice, and secularism. For the global community, it showcases India’s commitment to protecting and nurturing its minorities, setting an example of inclusive governance.
Kashmir is not just a geographical location for the Pandits; it is their spiritual and philosophical nucleus. The ancient temples of Martand, Kheer Bhawani, and Shankaracharya embody their faith, while the teachings of great saints like Lalleshwari and Abhinavagupta reflect their intellectual legacy. A one-place settlement enables the community to revive their spiritual practices, re-establish their pilgrimage traditions, and reconnect with their divine roots.
Moreover, the land of Kashmir, nurtured by the sacred river Vitasta (Jhelum), holds symbolic importance as a land blessed by Rishi Kashyap. Reclaiming this heritage is not just a right but a duty for the community.
The resettlement of Kashmiri Pandits at one place in valley is not just a community issue; it is a matter of national importance. The return of this educated, peace-loving, and progressive community to the Valley can serve as a catalyst for socio-economic development. Kashmiri Pandits, known for their contributions to education, science, and administration, can play a pivotal role in shaping a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir.
Their presence in the Valley would also reinforce India’s commitment to save their, culture ethos and religion, showcasing its resilience against divisive forces. It would serve as a symbol of integration and unity, strengthening the fabric of the nation.
Returning to the Kashmir Valley in a safe and sustainable manner allows the Pandits to reclaim their identity as the original inhabitants and custodians of Kashmir’s heritage. Their collective presence would reaffirm their role as an integral part of the Valley’s history and culture.
The exodus left deep psychological scars on the community. Resettling in their ancestors land as a united community provides a sense of closure and collective healing. It offers the displaced generations a chance to reconnect with their roots and rebuild their lives with dignity.
One place Resettlement of Kashmiri Pandit community in valley can never act as a hurdle,but a bridge to rebuild trust with other communities in Jammu and Kashmir. Their peaceful and progressive values can foster a spirit of coexistence and mutual respect, paving the way for lasting peace in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.
The government must act decisively and expeditiously to fulfill this legitimate demand of one place settlement in Kashmir valley turning the pain of exile into a story of hope, revival, and triumph. For the Kashmiri Pandit community, it is not just about going home, it is about reclaiming their rightful place in the land of Kashyap, where their identity, culture, and existence are eternally rooted.
Such a settlement would not only uplift the Kashmiri Pandits but also serve as a beacon of India’s resolve to uphold its constitutional values and protect its diverse heritage. This is a journey that must begin now, for the sake of justice, for the preservation of history, and for the restoration of humanity.
[ Kundan Kashmiri ]
Community Sevak & President Kashmiri Pandit Conference (KPC)
Mobile No: 8702167955
Email: kundankashmiri@gmail.com