Srinagar, May 15(KNS): Ashok Bhan urged the Union Government to initiate a structured dialogue with all stakeholders, including the exiled Kashmiri Pandit community, for a lasting resolution of the Kashmir issue and the safe return of displaced Pandits to the Valley.
Speaking at an extended executive council meeting of the Kashmir Policy and Strategy Group, Bhan said sustainable peace and reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir could not emerge solely through administrative or security measures, but required political outreach, democratic engagement and restoration of public confidence across communities.
He said the continuing anger, alienation and political unrest among sections of people in Kashmir highlighted the need to rebuild trust through dialogue and inclusive participation.
According to Bhan, the younger generation in Jammu and Kashmir seeks dignity, political empowerment, economic opportunities and assurance that democratic institutions remain responsive to their aspirations.
He said silence, political vacuum and absence of sustained engagement deepen mistrust between people and institutions of governance.
Bhan asserted that the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community has an “existential and civilisational stake” in Kashmir and must be an integral part of any meaningful dialogue concerning the future of the region.
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“The dignified, secure and sustainable return of Kashmiri Pandits to their homeland should form an essential component of any comprehensive political settlement,” he said.
Calling for political outreach, Bhan urged the Centre to create a credible framework for engagement involving mainstream political parties, civil society groups, youth representatives, minorities and displaced persons.
He said durable peace in Jammu and Kashmir could only be achieved through democratic dialogue, constitutional accommodation and restoration of faith in participatory politics.
Referring to remarks attributed to RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale on keeping channels of engagement with Pakistan open, Bhan said the government should consider the advice with political and strategic wisdom.
“The path to reconciliation lies not in confrontation or exclusion, but in engagement, empathy and national resolve to preserve Kashmir’s pluralistic and inclusive identity,” he said.(KNS).