Kashmiri Pandits Issue Urgent Call to Release Delayed Migrant Relief Funds

Jammu, April 15, 2025: Several social organizations and socio-political activists have voiced serious concerns over the delayed disbursement of March’s cash relief to the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community. An urgent meeting was convened in Jammu today to address this issue, bringing together notable community leaders and activists to demand immediate action from the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Secretary of Jammu & Kashmir. Participants urged the immediate release of the monthly cash assistance to the affected migrants, many of whom are entirely reliant on these funds and face significant financial hardship.

Addressing the gathering, senior Kashmiri Pandit leader Shri M.K. Yogi appealed to the Government of India to formulate and implement a comprehensive rehabilitation policy for Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. He emphasized that this long-standing demand must be addressed promptly to bring an end to their protracted 37-year exile. Yogi also advocated for an increase in the current meager cash assistance, proposing a raise from ₹13,000 to ₹27,000 per month to account for the rising cost of essential goods. He further urged the Relief Commissioner for Migrants to expedite the processing of public grievances, eliminating unnecessary delays.

Vinod Pandita highlighted other critical issues, including the urgent need for a new job package aimed at employing educated, unemployed Kashmiri Pandit youth and the immediate release of the delayed March cash assistance to all eligible recipients. He also called for the swift passage of the Temples and Shrines Bill to ensure the proper upkeep and maintenance of religious sites in the Kashmir Valley.

The meeting was attended by a large number of community members and leaders, including Ashwani Bhat, Ashok Ji Dhar, Rajesh Labroo, Virender Sathoo, Vishal Jotshi, Bal Krishan Bhat, Krishan Ji Koul, T.K. Koul, Rattan Lal Bhat, Hira Lal Bhat, Anil Ji, Harmindar Singh, Ab Wayoom Wani, Ashook Ji, Chand Ji, Raj Kumar Bhat, Deelip Ji, and Shuban Ji Raina, among others. Their collective voice serves as a powerful call for urgent government intervention to address the immediate needs and long-term concerns of the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community.