A Historic Meeting at Raj Bhawan: Former President of India Kovind Lends an Ear to the ‘Silent Cries’ of Kashmiri Pandits

Chandigarh, April 26, 2024: In a landmark event that resonated deeply with the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, author Kuldeep Kashmiri, renowned for his poignant book “Silent Cries,” was invited to Raj Bhawan Punjab by Former President of India, Ram Nath Kovind. This unprecedented meeting marked the first time the unspoken tragedy of the Kashmiri Pandits, as articulated by a member of the community, found a receptive audience in the highest echelons of power.

Former President Kovind’s invitation was a commendable gesture acknowledging the enduring patience and unwavering solidarity of the victims of terror who have endured exile for over three decades. It symbolized a significant step towards fostering greater understanding and empathy towards the plight of the Kashmiri Pandits.

Following the meeting, Kuldeep Kashmiri expressed his profound gratitude to Former President Kovind for the generous and profoundly meaningful audience. He shared, “His Excellency listened with genuine concern as I elucidated the multifaceted challenges confronting our community. He acknowledged the suffering we have endured and expressed his commitment to addressing our grievances.”

During their conversation, Kuldeep Kashmiri meticulously detailed the hardships faced by the Kashmiri Pandits, emphasizing the urgent need for concerted action to alleviate their plight. He implored the Former President to expedite measures that would enable their return to their homeland and ensure their safety and well-being.

Accompanying Kuldeep Kashmiri were his wife, Tota Kumari, and his brother, Dr. KK Pandita. Their presence underscored the collective resolve and determination of the Kashmiri Pandit diaspora to reclaim their rightful place in their motherland Kashmir.

As they departed from the hallowed halls of Raj Bhawan Punjab, a palpable sense of hope filled the air. The Kashmiri Pandit community felt their voices had finally been heard and that tangible steps would be taken to bring about meaningful change. This meeting served as a beacon of hope, signalling a commitment to address the long-standing grievances of the Kashmiri Pandits with the seriousness and urgency they deserve.