The Unspoken Truth: Why Kashmiri Pandits' Return Remains a Priority

The question of why Kashmiri Pandits do not feel that their return to Kashmir is a priority remains a complex and deeply sensitive issue. While the reasons are multifaceted, the history of violence, lack of government support, and the fear of safety continue to be key factors.

Historical Context

Tensions in Kashmir have persisted for decades, with the constant presence of military forces and external influences exacerbating the situation. Since 1990, over 44,167 families have been displaced from Kashmir for security reasons, according to Indian government records. These figures detail a history of displacement but often omit crucial events, such as the Gawkadal Massacre on January 21, 1990, where 280 innocent and unarmed people were killed by the Indian Central Reserve Police Force. This horrific event, along with the subsequent Handwara incident on January 25, 1990, where innocent citizens were shot at by the Border Security Force, underscore the depth of violence.

The Handwara Incident: A Turning Point

Exactly four days after the Gawkadal Massacre, approximately 10,000 people gathered in Handwara to protest. The Indian government’s response to these peaceful protests by spraying bullets was indeed a turning point. The police registered an FIR under sections 307, 151, 53, 427, 336, 449, 448, and 436, A but faced with the untraceability of the accused CRPF and BSF personnel, there was no justice delivered. It is a testimony to the lack of accountability that the government still has no answer for the Kashmiri people regarding these atrocities. Decades of witnessing brutality without justice have hardened the stance of Kashmiri Muslims, making the return of Kashmiri Pandits appear as an unrealistic proposition to many.

Political Context and Propaganda

The political dynamics in India, particularly under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rule, have further complicated the situation. In 2000, 35 Sikhs from Chittisinghpura were massacred with the intent of fomenting anti-Muslim sentiment. The BJP’s history of spreading communal hatred, including the destruction of the Babri mosque in 1992, has left a deep stain on its legacy. Additionally, the current prime minister, who held the position of chief minister of Gujarat during the 2002 religious riots, is directly implicated in hate campaigns against Muslims. These actions have created a narrative of communal enmity that Kashmiri Pandits feel does not allow for the safe return to their ancestral homes.

Current Government Inaction

The lack of unity and the absence of proactive measures from the Indian government to address these issues further fuel the skepticism and mistrust among Kashmiri Pandits. There have been no meaningful initiatives or compensation packages that would reassure the community and prompt their return. The government's failure to address the historical wrongs and provide a sense of security for the Kashmiri Pandits has contributed to their reluctance.

The Kashmiri Muslim Perspective

It is also important to acknowledge the perspective of Kashmiri Muslims. The Kashmiri Muslim community claims that the Kashmiri Pandits were forced to leave due to extremist actions, which they claim were supported by the Indian government. Their stance is that security is a significant concern, and they are hesitant to accept the Pandits until the root causes of the violence and displacement are addressed.

Conclusion

The question of whether Kashmiri Pandits should return to Kashmir is deeply rooted in a web of historical, political, and humanitarian issues. While the Indian government’s approach to addressing these issues is crucial, the safety and security of the Kashmiri Pandits must be the top priority. Only by addressing the underlying causes of displacement and fostering a culture of peace and justice can the vision of the safe return of the Kashmiri Pandits be realized.