Kashmiri Pandits’ return possible after a sense of safety is fully restored: Omar Abdullah

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday (April 1, 2026) said the return of displaced Kashmir Pandits was possible “only after a sense of safety is fully restored” and showed willingness to have a fresh legislation on protection of Hindu shrines and religious sites.

“The migration of Kashmiri Pandits in the 1990s took place under extremely difficult circumstances after their security was compromised. Their return cannot be expected unless a sense of safety is fully restored,” Mr. Abdullah told the J&K Assembly.

He was speaking on a private member bill submitted by ruling National Conference (NC) legislator Arjun Singh Raju. The Bill seeks to provide for better management, protection, administration and governance of Kashmiri Hindu Shrines and religious places in J&K.

Mr. Abdullah said protecting the properties and religious shrines of displaced Kashmiri Pandits remained a key responsibility of the government until their safe and dignified return.

“While narratives around the plight of Kashmiri Pandits often gain attention, there are instances where local Kashmiri Muslims have safeguarded temples in their absence. The government is open to enacting a law on the issue, provided there is broader consensus within the community,” Mr. Abdullah said.

He underlined that successive governments both at the Centre and in J&K have reiterated their commitment towards facilitating their dignified return.

“After the 1996 elections, the then NC government had introduced legislation to prevent distress sale or transfer of properties belonging to Kashmiri Pandits,” said Mr. Abdullah.

Mr. Raju withdrew the bill in response to the Chief Minister’s response. 

Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) too have moved a private members bill for reintegration of Kashmiri Pandits. Submitted by PDP legislator Agha Syed Muntazir Mehdi, the PDP said, “It offered an opportunity for all to contribute towards healing the wounds of Kashmiri Pandits for 36 years with dignity, justice and collective will.”

The PDP has appealed to NC, BJP, and all others “to rise above political divides and extend their full support to this effort”. The Bill is yet to come up before the House.