Srinagar

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said that the responsibility of facilitating the return of displaced Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley lies more with the people of both communities than with the government.

Speaking to reporters in Anantnag district, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits must work together to rebuild trust and strengthen social bonds.

“In my view, the government has a limited role, while Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits together have a much larger responsibility. We are not separate communities; we are one. I appeal to our Kashmiri Pandit brothers not to dwell on the past but to look towards the future,” she said.

Mehbooba Mufti made the remarks while attending a ‘Mekhal’ ceremony of a Kashmiri Pandit family in Omooh village in Verinag, South Kashmir.

Highlighting examples of Kashmiri Pandit doctors such as U Koul, Sushil Razdan and Sameer Koul, she said many continue to serve patients in Kashmir and are respected by people irrespective of religion.

“When a Kashmiri Muslim meets a Pandit doctor anywhere in the country, he is welcomed with warmth. The doctor does not refuse treatment on the basis of religion,” she noted, adding that young Kashmiri Pandit professionals should feel encouraged to return and contribute to the Valley.

She also urged the government to improve facilities for Kashmiri Pandits, including those employed under the PM Package who are currently residing in Jammu and other areas.

“They face hardships in places like Jagti in Jammu, but I am glad that one of our Pandit brothers came back here for a family function. I hope more will return,” she said.

Mehbooba further suggested the construction of guest houses near major temples in the Valley to make visits and stays easier for Kashmiri Pandits.

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“Kashmir, the land of saints, should once again flourish with the presence of Kashmiri Pandits,” she added.