Srinagar, Aug 20 (KNS): Chairman of the Kashmir Policy and Strategy Group Ashok Bhan on Thursday welcomed US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor’s remarks during his Srinagar visit that Jammu and Kashmir is an “important part of India”, saying the statement was significant and reflected changing ground realities in the region.
Bhan said the envoy’s observations on the improving security situation and his appreciation of the efforts of the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration were also welcome.
“His indication that the United States may review its travel advisory for J&K is a positive recognition of the changing ground realities and the growing confidence in peace, stability and normalcy in the region,” Bhan said in a statement.
He said the remarks should encourage greater international engagement with Jammu and Kashmir centred on development, democracy, economic opportunities, tourism and the aspirations of its people rather than through the prism of conflict and terrorism.
“The people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve peace, prosperity, dignity and full participation in India’s democratic, economic and constitutional journey,” Bhan said.
At the same time, he said the development should strengthen the resolve to address the remaining political and humanitarian challenges within the constitutional framework.
Bhan said restoration of democratic institutions, reconciliation among communities and the dignified and secure return of people forced into exile should remain important components of the process of healing and rebuilding Jammu and Kashmir.
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He particularly stressed the need for the return of the exiled Kashmiri Pandit community, saying it should be an integral part of the larger process of peace, reconciliation and reconstruction in the region.
“The Government of India and the J&K administration should evolve a time-bound, secure, dignified and community-sensitive return and rehabilitation module,” he said.
Such a framework, he said, should include assured physical security, protection of property and cultural heritage, livelihood and housing support, besides mechanisms for restoring legitimate rights and community institutions.
Bhan said the objective should go beyond rehabilitation of displaced families outside Kashmir and focus on enabling the safe and honourable return of exiled natives to their ancestral homeland.
He proposed that such a return programme could initially focus on three smart cities in district headquarters — Srinagar, Baramulla and Anantnag — with adequate safeguards and support.
“The future of J&K must be defined by peace, pluralism, constitutional democracy and an empowered people,” Bhan said.(KNS).