On behalf of the Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum (JKPF), we wish to extend our deepest appreciation to the Government of India and the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir ,Lt Governor of j&K for their prompt and thoughtful response to the policy recommendations put forth by our organization. We are particularly gratified by the government’s decision to allocate 2.5% of Jammu & Kashmir’s annual budget for the return and rehabilitation of displaced Kashmiri residents. This crucial step represents a significant milestone in addressing the long-standing issue of displacement and provides much-needed hope for the affected families.
The allocation of 2.5% of the state’s budget for the rehabilitation of displaced families is a historic and far-reaching measure. It underscores the government’s commitment to restoring the dignity and security of those who have endured years of hardship and displacement. This decision will play an instrumental role in facilitating the safe return and resettlement of displaced families, enabling them to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to all those who have contributed to this progress, including the distinguished members of the Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum. In particular, we acknowledge the leadership and tireless efforts of all other esteemed members of the JKPF
Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to this cause have been invaluable in advocating for the rights and needs of displaced Kashmiri families. Their collective efforts have ensured that the plight of these families is brought to the highest levels of governance.
While the allocation of 2.5% of the annual budget is a momentous development, we respectfully urge the Honourable Prime Minister of India, the Honourable Home Minister of India, and the Honourable Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir , LT Governor of Jammu & Kashmir to consider additional provisions to accelerate the rehabilitation process. Specifically, we advocate for the allocation of free or subsidized land to displaced Kashmiri residents, which would facilitate the immediate implementation of the rehabilitation policy and expedite the return of these families to their ancestral lands.
In line with our ongoing efforts, the Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum has submitted a comprehensive list of 419 displaced families who are in immediate need of assistance. This list serves as a critical first step in identifying those families who require priority support for their safe return and reintegration. We appeal to all concerned authorities to prioritize these families’ needs and provide them with the necessary resources to rebuild their lives.
The Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum also wishes to express its deep concern and unwavering solidarity with the thousands of displaced individuals and families currently living in distress. Displacement is not merely a logistical issue; it is a profound human crisis. The pain and suffering endured by displaced families are not abstract statistics—they represent real human lives, and we stand in full support of their right to return to their homes and live in safety and dignity.
Satish Mahaldar, Chairperson of the Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum, stated:
“Every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves to live free from violence, fear, and deprivation. The displacement of families is not just a logistical challenge; it is a deeply tragic humanitarian crisis. The families affected by this displacement need our collective support, compassion, and immediate action. It is our shared responsibility to help them rebuild their lives and restore their hope for a brighter future.”
The Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum remains steadfast in its mission to promote peace, justice, and reconciliation for the displaced Kashmiri residents. We will continue to collaborate closely with the Government of India, the Jammu & Kashmir administration, and civil society organizations to ensure that the rehabilitation process is implemented effectively and efficiently. Our work will remain focused on advocating for policies that support displaced families and foster lasting peace in the region.
As we move forward, we reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous future for the people of Jammu & Kashmir. The government’s decision to prioritize the rehabilitation of displaced families is a vital first step, and we remain hopeful that further measures will ensure that all those affected by displacement are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives with dignity, security, and hope.
Contact: Satish Mahaldar
Chairperson, Jammu Kashmir Peace Forum
