Kashmir Pandits to intensify struggle for 'homeland'

Jammu, Nov 13 (UNI) The Kashmiri Pandits are all set to strengthen their struggle to return to the Valley.

Speaking to mediapersons, Ashwani Kumar Chrungoo, President, Panun Kashmir Movement (PKM) said Kashmiri Pandits community had decided to speed up the battle for their rights and they will return to the Valley soon.

With an aim to intensify the struggle, 'Sankalp Yatra', the first phase of political pilgrimage had been introduced, he said.

''After covering many religious places in Kashmir, the 'Yatra' reached Jammu today. We will also visit sacred places here and meet people of the Pandit community living in migrant camps,'' Mr Chrungoo said.

He said a nine-member delegation is also a part of the 'Sankalp Yatra' that commenced from Sheetalnath in Srinagar and reached Jammu today.

''The 'Yatra' will conclude here on November 25 after visiting a number of places and interacting with the people,'' he asserted.

''During my three-day visit to Kashmir for the 'Yatra', I found Kashmir to be the same as we left it in 1989. But I think the atmosphere is yet not conducive for the Pandits to return to the Valley,'' Mr Chrungoo said.

UNI