Jammu, Jan 19:
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway witnessed a massive disruption on Sunday evening as thousands of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, under the banner of Youth 4 Panun Kashmir (Youth 4 PK), staged an intense protest at the Jagti township. The blockade, which lasted deep into the night, resulted in a total standstill of traffic stretching as far as the Ban Toll Plaza and Sidhra bridge.
The Core Demand: “Separate Homeland with UT Status”
The protest marks a significant escalation in the 36-year-long struggle of the community. Led by senior leaders of Youth 4 PK, the demonstrators are demanding a permanent settlement in a separate homeland in the Kashmir Valley with Union Territory status, as envisioned in the 1991 Margdarshan Resolution.
Key Demands Raised:
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Genocide Recognition: Passage of a Parliamentary Bill officially declaring Kashmiri Pandits as victims of genocide.
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Constitutional Protection: A “separate homeland” to the North and East of the Jhelum river where the Indian Constitution is applicable in letter and spirit.
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Institutional Security: Passage of the Shrines and Temples Bill to protect religious properties.
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Welfare Enhancements: Increased cash relief, a fresh job package for youth, and safer allotment of quarters for employees currently working in the Valley.
Stalemate Between Protesters and Police
Senior police officials rushed to the spot to pacify the crowd, but the protesters remained adamant. Chanting “Enough is enough,” leaders like Vithal Choudhary and Digamber Raina stated that the community would no longer settle for “stoic silence” or generic rehabilitation promises.
“Lakhs of Kashmiri Hindus became refugees in their own country in a single night in 1990. We have waited 36 years. We need concrete assurance, not just words,” said Vithal Choudhary.
Casualty Reported: The protest took a somber turn when a local resident, identified as Ajay Chaman, sustained grievous injuries after falling from a culvert at Kerly Chowk during the agitation. He was immediately shifted to GMC Jammu for treatment.
Asht Bhairav Jagadamba Mahayagya
The highway blockade followed the culmination of a three-day Asht Bhairav Jagadamba Mahayagya that began on January 16. The religious event was attended by Maha Manddleshwars, saints, and sages from across India to invoke spiritual strength for the community’s “do or die” battle for justice.
Political Reactions
The protest has already triggered political ripples. National Conference President Farooq Abdullah reacted to the agitation today, stating that Kashmiri Pandits are always welcome to return, but added, “I don’t think they want to live in the Valley permanently,” a comment that has sparked further debate within the community leadership.
National Highway: Traffic restored early Monday after a night-long blockade. Genocide Bill: Currently a Private Member’s Bill in Rajya Sabha; community demands Government sponsorship. Security Grid: Heightened vigilance in Jagti and other transit camps.
