Security jawans guard as women walk with their kid during a strike call given by separatist groups against proposed plans of establishing sainik colony and settlement for Kashmiri Pandits. (PTI Photo)
As Kashmir observed a complete shutdown on Thursday to protest against colonies for retired soldiers and exclusive settlements for Pandit migrants, the state government, which had started the process of acquiring land for the colonies is now asking for suggestions from separatist groups and the opposition.
"We have asked them to give us ideas. Everybody is free to give ideas... We have said that Pandits will come and live along with others," said Naeem Akhtar, minister and J&K government spokesman.
The process of acquiring land for Pandit colonies was started last year but the controversy began when it got mixed up with setting up of colonies for retired soldiers after some official documents were leaked recently. The ruling PDP's coalition partner, the BJP, however says nothing should come in the way of setting up of these colonies.
"It's one of the important demands of ex-servicemen who have served in Indian forces. What's wrong in it? We will convince our alliance partner," said Ravinder Raina, BJP legislator.
While several migrant Pandit groups want exclusive settlements, it is being opposed by many Pandits living in the valley. They say creating ghettos will create more problems than solving one.
"Separate colony for Pandits is to divide and create a wall of hatred. Hatred will start with that. Muslims society can boycott them. Horse cart puller can refuse to give a ride, Muslim women may refuse to sell vegetable and fish to Pandits," said Sampat Prakash, Kashmiri Pandit and well known trade union leader in Jammu and Kashmir.
While all political groups in Kashmir say Pandits are an inseparable part of Kashmir and they want them back, a controversy has started over how and where these people who are living in exile can be rehabilitated. The fluctuating stand of ruling PDP-BJP coalition on colonies for former soldiers and Pandits has added to the confusion.