JAMMU AND KASHMIR, June 23, 2026 (The Hindu): Buoyed by the improvement in the security situation, a record number of displaced Kashmiri Pandits converged on the Kheer Bhawani temple in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal on Monday (June 22, 2026). They were welcomed by local Muslims and regional parties, including the ruling National Conference (NC) and Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The Pandits have pledged to return every year and continue the tradition.

Over 214 buses ferried the displaced Kashmiri Pandits to the temple over the past few days. Most devotees said the security situation had changed for the better: Kashmir was “free of fear” and “it was possible to travel even at night”. The Mata Kheer Bhawani Ji Yatra Welfare Society served over 10,000 devotees at its langar a day before the festival on Sunday. “A record number of devotees participated in this year’s pilgrimage,” said M.K. Yogi, general secretary of the society. NC president Dr. Farooq Abdullah, while pressing for “the dignified return of Kashmiri Pandits,” said, “The annual mela is a symbol of Kashmir’s age-old tradition of communal harmony and brotherhood. I pray for the restoration of coexistence and strengthening of social bonds among all the communities.”

More at source.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/jammu-and-kashmir/buoyed-by-improved-security-displaced-pandits-converge-on-kashmir-temple-in-their-thousands/article71134174.ece/amp/

Post Views: 65