Kashmiri Pandits Urge Action on M-Forms Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls  

Jammu, February 18, 2024: A meeting of Prominent Socio-Political activists of the Kashmiri Displaced community was convened today under the leadership of senior leader M.K. Yogi. The gathering shed light on various genuine problems faced by the community, residing in forced exile for over three decades in Jammu, Udhampur, and other parts of the country, particularly addressing the significant issue of the M-form system, which has deprived the community of exercising their voting rights for more than three decades.

In his address at the meeting, M.K. Yogi emphasized that the introduction of the cumbersome and unnecessary M-form system has deliberately kept Kashmiri Pandits away from the voting system during their exile, thereby depriving them of their fundamental rights. He urged for the immediate removal of this barrier to ensure justice and equity for the community.

Yogi commended the central government for its historical decisions and developments aimed at the welfare of the nation and expressed hope that the issues plaguing the helpless community would be addressed in the future as well.

Highlighting the urgent need for a concrete and time-bound rehabilitation policy for the displaced community’s return to the valley with honour and dignity, Yogi also called for the implementation of the Immovable Migrant Act of 1997. He reiterated the community’s unwavering faith and high hopes in the present government.

Among the prominent figures who voiced concerns and highlighted various community issues were Vinod Pandita, Sunil Pandita, Pran Pandita, Ashwani Bhat, Tej Dhar, Ashok Kumar Koul, Balkrishan Bhat, Bittoo Ji, Vishal Jotshi, and others.

As the Lok Sabha polls draw nearer, the Kashmiri Pandit community’s appeal for the resolution of longstanding grievances, particularly regarding the M-form system, resonates with a call for inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process.

The community stressed the urgency of addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by Kashmiri Pandits, including issues of employment, education, and healthcare. They called for targeted initiatives and support from the government and relevant authorities to uplift the community and ensure their holistic development.

With Lok Sabha polls on the horizon, Kashmiri Pandits remain hopeful that their voices will be heard, and concrete steps will be taken to address their longstanding grievances, fostering a sense of inclusivity and empowerment within the community.