 Early Times Report
JAMMU, June 12: Gratitude Expressed to LG and Leadership After Successful Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra Despite Recent Challenges The Vishwa Kashmiri Samaj, under the banner of the Shri Mata Kheer Bhawani Ji Welfare Society, held a press conference today at the Press Club Jammu to express heartfelt gratitude for the successful conduct of the Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra 2025.
Following the tragic incident at Baisaran, Pahalgam, there was deep apprehension within the community, and hopes of conducting the annual pilgrimage were dim. However, thanks to the unwavering efforts of the civil administration, security agencies, and the Kashmiri Pandit community, the Yatra was held peacefully and successfully - reflecting resilience and faith in the face of adversity.
The organization extended sincere thanks to the Hon'ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, former Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, and the entire administration. Special appreciation was extended to Chief Secretary Shri Atal Dulloo and Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner Shri Arvind Karwani for their dedicated efforts. The roles played by the Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir and the District Development Commissioners of Jammu, Udhampur, Ramban, Anantnag, Kulgam, Srinagar, and Ganderbal were also acknowledged and appreciated.
The organization emphasized its hope for the dignified return and rehabilitation of the Kashmiri Pandit community in the Valley - on their own terms and in a secure environment.
Shri Kiran Wattal, Convenor, presented a detailed report on the community's ongoing issues.
Major concerns highlighted include:
Enhancement of Monthly Relief: The current assistance of ?3,250 per soul per month is insufficient. This amount has remained unchanged for years and must be revised urgently.
Pending Ex-Gratia Payments: Almost 50% of rightful beneficiaries are yet to receive compensation.
Unassessed Losses: Horticultural and agricultural losses suffered during the 1990s genocide remain unaccounted for to date.
Incomplete PM Package: Announced in 2008-09, a large portion of the promised employment is still pending. The community demands fresh recruitment of at least 5,000 posts across sectors without conditional barriers.
Pending Accommodation for Employees: A significant number of PM package employees lack proper housing in Kashmir.
Conditions in Jammu Migrant Camps: There is an urgent need for improvement in basic facilities, including drinking water, roads, building maintenance, healthcare, and sanitation.
Shri M.K. Yogi, General Secretary of Vishwa Kashmiri Samaj, strongly urged the government to treat these issues with utmost seriousness and take concrete action in the interest of displaced families.
The press conference was also attended by prominent community members and office bearers including:
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