Deputy CM says government committed to addressing concerns of Kashmiri migrants through proper assessment.
J&K Govt Reviewing Relief Benefits for Kashmiri Migrants, Says Deputy CM
Jammu and Kashmir’s government announced on Tuesday that the relief benefits for around 1,250 Kashmiri migrants are under review by a screening committee, formed on October 11, 2024. The issue was raised during the ongoing budget session in the Legislative Assembly, where several legislators demanded a streamlined process to support displaced migrants, including political workers.
MLA Kulgam, M.Y. Tarigami, sought details on the government’s measures for Kashmiri migrants, including Kashmiri Pandits and others who fled due to security threats. Responding in the Assembly, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, speaking on behalf of the Minister for Disaster Management, Relief, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction, outlined existing government efforts.
He highlighted the Rs 1,618.40 crore rehabilitation package announced in 2009, which includes housing, transit accommodation, cash relief, student scholarships, employment, and assistance for agriculturalists and horticulturalists. Under this package, 6,000 government jobs were sanctioned, with 5,868 appointments completed and 132 posts in the final selection process.
Regarding accommodation, 6,000 transit flats were approved in 2015 for Kashmiri migrant employees, with 3,120 flats completed and 2,040 still under construction. The government plans to begin work on the remaining 840 flats soon.
Tarigami pressed the government to create rehabilitation arrangements at district headquarters for those willing to return. In response, Choudhary acknowledged past migration challenges and reiterated efforts to ensure a dignified return. He emphasized that rehabilitation is not limited to Kashmiri Pandits but also includes other displaced communities.
Legislators also raised concerns about political workers who fled due to security threats, arguing that their relief had been stopped for the past two years. Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri suggested allocating funds for renovating the homes of Kashmiri Pandits willing to return, rather than constructing separate accommodations.
The discussion saw input from both National Conference (NC) and BJP legislators, who urged fair relief distribution and expedited rehabilitation measures.
Assuring the House, Deputy CM Choudhary said all concerns will be reviewed, acknowledging that displacement affected multiple communities. “I come from a family divided after 1947. All suggestions will be examined, and we will do whatever is possible,” he stated.
