New Delhi, Nov 03: Terming migration of Kashmiri Pandits out of the valley 14 years ago as a "tragic painful event", several separatist leaders have issued a joint appeal to majority Muslims to "welcome" their return and assured that whatever could be done at their level would be done. "It is our sincere desire that the Kashmiri Pandits return to their homes and hearths with dignity and respect," said the appeal by Hurriyat chairman Abbas Ansari, his colleagues Abdul Ghani Bhat, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Yasin Malik and Democratic Freedom Party leader Shabbir Shah.
"Whatever can be done in this regard by us and the Muslims of the valley will be done," said the appeal, also signed by state CPI (M) leader Yusuf Tarigami and released by the National Commission for Minorities here today.
The leaders said, "Our hearts bleed at their plight in which they are leading a homeless life in Jammu, Delhi and other cities, deprived of even the basic facilities."
The appeal said Kashmiri Pandits were "a part of ourselves and we are incomplete without them" and "they deserve our sympathy in every way. Not only our houses, but our hearts are open for them always”.
It said they expected "our compatriots and appeal to them to welcome the return of to the valley”.
"At the same time we appeal to the authorities responsible to provide them with all the facilities needed for leading a secure, peaceful and comfortable life," the joint statement said. Bureau Report