Migrant Kashmiri Pandits visit homes in Sopore after 18 years

Srinagar, May 9 (UNI) Several Kashmiri Pandits today visited their homes in the once militancy-hub Sopore area of Baramulla district, more than 18 years after their migration from the Valley.

The Kashmiri Pandits visited Sopore on an invitation from state Handicrafts Development Corporation Chairman and local legislator Haji Abdul Rashid Dar.

The Kashmiri Pandits visited their native villages of Bumai and Zanipora in Sopore area and interacted with the Muslims who accorded a warm reception to them.

The group expressed satisfaction on the rehabilitation process initiated by the state government and sought several other measures to ensure early return of the Kashmiri Pandits to the Valley.

The Kashmiri Pandits also expressed a strong desire to return to their homes.

On the occasion, Mr Dar granted Rs two lakh from his constituency development fund for erection of fencing of a temple located in Bumai. ''Pandits are indispensable part of Kashmiri culture. One and all are feeling their long absence from the Valley,'' he added.

The Kashmiri Pandits later offered prayers in Bumai temple. They prayed for peace and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.

UNI