"Kashmiri Pandits are a component of Kashmiri society. Their return will be honourable, but it will take some time. Unless there is a proper social order in place, rehabilitation is difficult. We will work to create that order first," BJP MLC Ambardar told PTI.
Lashing out at separatist leaders, he said that while they aim to radicalise Kashmiri youth, they will soon lose their relevance.
"The space occupied by separatists is shrinking and they will soon become irrelevant. I don't think they are a stakeholder," added Ambardar.
He said it was the "utter failure" of the previous National Conference-led government -- especially during the devastating floods, when it appeared to be in a "complete shambles" -- and the Narendra Modi wave that had brought about a change of guard in the state.
"BJP's mission is to change the political turf in the Valley. We will now predominantly focus on development and issues concerning the youth and women in order to make serious inroads there," he said.
Ambardar said that BJP will work to revive the composite culture of Kashmir while noting that moves were afoot for a joint township.
"Asking Kashmiri Muslims to vacate homes for the Pandits after they had bought them during the exodus of the latter will give rise to a new conflict. The concept is not to create a separate township but a joint township where people from all religions can live in harmony," he said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
