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Do not ignore Kashmiri Pandits: Pallone

By Sridhar Krishnaswami

WASHINGTON, AUG. 25. The Democratic lawmaker, Frank Pallone, has written to the Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, expressing concern that Indian Government did not make a mention of the Kashmiri Pandits as part of its policy on Kashmir.

The lawmaker from New Jersey urged Dr. Singh to include the Pandits in any future policy discussions.

"Given the urgency of addressing the plight of Kashmiri Pandits, I was disappointed that the new Government did not mention the Pandits as a part of its policy on Kashmir. I urge you to include the Pandits in any negotiations with Kashmiri constituents and in developing the future course of action in Jammu and Kashmir," Mr. Pallone wrote in his letter.

Beleaguered community

"As you know, the Pandits have suffered more than any group as a result of the conflict in Kashmir...Along with violence, the indifference of previous and current state administrations has inflicted irreparable harm to this beleaguered community...Today, Kashmiri Pandits are on the verge of losing their identity, culture and homeland in Kashmir," Mr. Pallone said.

Founder of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, Mr. Pallone said that by ignoring the Pandits' pleas and "skirting responsibilities" the past and present administrations had brought the situation to a "critical" juncture. "It is more important now than ever for a public commitment from your administration to include the Pandits in future policy discussions. By doing so they will be ensured a much-needed voice in determining the future of their security and return to the Valley."

Mr. Pallone commended the Indian Government for its "seamless transition" in continuing the talks with Pakistan and hoped that negotiations between the two countries lead to progress on a variety of issues.

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