Let’s journey back to the darkest day in the history of Kashmiri Pandits to find out what happened on 19 January 1990 in Kashmir.

19 January 1990 had a profound impact on the lives of Kashmiri Pandits. I can still vividly remember waking up to an unsettling silence, only to be confronted by the chilling messages from loudspeakers. Ralliv, Tchaliv Ya Galliv “Convert to Islam, leave Kashmir, or face grave consequences.

In the midst of this turmoil, prominent members of the community received notices to quit Kashmir. Frequent broadcasts of incendiary and provocative speeches. From mosque loudspeakers became a common occurrence. Thousands of audiocassettes, filled with similar propaganda, were played across the Valley, aiming to instil fear into the already terrified Kashmiri Pandit community.

Reflecting on these events, the former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir, Police, Shri M M Khajooria, stated, “The trouble in the summer of 1989 that began with notices served to prominent community members, demanding their departure from Kashmir.” The letters bore a clear message: “This land is only for Muslims, and Sikhs and Hindus cannot stay here. Leave immediately, or your children will suffer.” The killing of Tika Lal Taploo, Justice Neelkanth Ganjoo, Sheela Kaul, Ajay Kapoor, Premnath Bhat, Baldev Raj Dutta, and others aimed to create panic among the minority community

The Urdu Daily “Aftab” and Alsafa played a significant role in spreading the threat against Kashmiri Pandits. Aftab published a press release issued by Hizb-ul-Mujahideen on January 4,1990, demanding the immediate departure of all Pandits from the Valley. This was later republished by Alsafa.

Jagmohan’s Role in the Kashmiri Pandit Exodus

In response to the escalating tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Jagmohan, a seasoned administrator, assumed office as the Governor of the troubled region. Recognizing the urgency
of the situation, he immediately began working towards restoring peace and stability in the region. Fully aware of the challenges ahead, Jagmohan appealed to the people, extending a helping hand and offering assistance in navigating the turmoil. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, urging the residents not to take matters into their own hands. His intention was to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among the diverse communities residing in the region.

However, despite Jagmohan’s earnest plea, certain sections of the population in Kashmir chose to defy the instructions and resort to acts of intimidation and violence. In particular, there were instances where sacred mosques were misused to target and intimidate Kashmiri Pandits, exacerbating the already volatile situation.

Role of Mosques

In response to the escalating tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, Jagmohan, a seasoned administrator, assumed office as the Governor of the troubled region. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, he immediately began working towards restoring peace and stability in the region.

Fully aware of the challenges ahead, Jagmohan appealed to the people, extending a helping hand and offering assistance in navigating the turmoil. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, urging the residents not to take matters into their own hands. His intention was to foster a sense of unity and cooperation among the diverse communities residing in the region.

However, despite Jagmohan’s earnest plea, certain sections of the population in Kashmir chose to defy the instructions and resort to acts of intimidation and violence. In particular, there were instances where sacred mosques were misused to target and intimidate Kashmiri Pandits, exacerbating the already volatile situation.

Impact on Kashmiri Pandits” Psyche

The daily routines they once took for granted were disrupted. Walls were plastered with posters dictating strict Islamic rules that they were expected to follow. The dress code was enforced, banning anything that didn’t align with their ideology. Cinemas and video parlours, once sources of entertainment and leisure, were condemned. The lives they knew were being forcibly reshaped, stripped of the freedom and diversity that had defined them for generations.

The impact of these events was far-reaching. Families were torn apart as they grappled with the impossible choice before them. Elderly parents worried for the safety of their children, while young adults faced the agonizing decision of leaving behind their ancestral homes. The atmosphere of uncertainty and danger pushed them towards a path they never envisioned—exile.

Exile became Kashmiri Pandits’ unwelcome companion as they were forced to scatter across different parts of India. Their community was torn apart and displaced, enduring the pain of separation from their beloved Kashmir—the land that shaped their identities.

The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits on 19 January 1990 is one of the most tragic events in the history of the region. It is a reminder of the dangers of religious extremism and the importance of protecting minority communities. The stories of Kashmiri Pandits are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. They have endured unimaginable hardship, but they have never given up hope. They continue to fight for their right to return to their homeland, and they refuse to let the violence of the past define their future.
For more information on what happened on 19 January 1990, Refer to my book “Uprooted and Forlorn: The tale of Kashmiri pandits in exile.” and “Kashmiri Pandits: A tale of Solitude and Survival”

Habba Kadal ” Symbol of Loss- . The Old Habba Kadal is a
poignant reminder of the harrowing events that unfolded on that fateful day on 19 January, 1990

The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits stands as a painful and tragic chapter in the history of Kashmir. The forced exodus of Kashmiri Pandits from the beautiful valley in the late 1980s and early 1990s not only shattered lives but also disrupted the cultural and social fabric of the region. This blog aims to shed light on the events leading up to the exodus, the consequences it had on the Kashmiri Pandit community, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the atrocities committed against them.

The Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits

The Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits  in 1990 was a result of a series of targeted attacks, threats, and intimidation by extremist elements. The Pandit community faced a grave risk to their lives and were left with no choice but to leave their homes and seek refuge elsewhere. This forced migration not only uprooted families but also had a profound impact on the cultural and social fabric of Kashmir.

The Exodus of Kashmiri Pandits had far-reaching consequences for the Kashmiri Pandit community. Families were separated, properties were abandoned, and the community’s heritage was left vulnerable. The loss of lives, and livelihoods, and the disintegration of a vibrant and inclusive society left an indelible mark on the collective memory of Kashmir. There was a planned genocide of Kashmiri Pandits, which unfortunately is continuing even after 34 years.

The Tragedy of Genocide: The term “genocide” accurately describes the campaign against Kashmiri Pandits. The targeted violence and persecution they faced in the late 1980s and early 1990s fit the United Nations’ definition of genocide. This violence, driven by Islamic extremism, sought to eradicate the Kashmiri Pandit community based on their religious and cultural identity. The brutality included targeted killings, rape, torture, and the destruction of homes and properties, with the ultimate goal of forcing them out of the region.

Denial of Justice: Despite 34 years of exile, justice has remained elusive for the Kashmiri Pandits. The mass murders, organized crimes, looting, and killings have gone unpunished, with no one held accountable in a court of law. The failure of government agencies to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of violence has allowed terrorists to evade arrest and perpetuate a culture of impunity. Even the Indian Supreme Court’s refusal to conduct investigations into the murders of Kashmiri Pandits in recent years highlights the systemic challenges faced in achieving justice.

Violence Against Women: Numerous Kashmiri Pandit women fell victim to rape and murder during this period. Girija Tikoo, Sarla Bhat, and many other unfortunate Kashmiri Pandit women endured brutal acts of rape and murder. The manner in which these crimes were committed, such as using a mechanical saw to dismember bodies, is unparalleled in the history of brutality.

It is crucial to acknowledge that violence, especially when directed at women, is completely unacceptable, and those responsible must be held accountable for their deeds. Despite enduring 34 years of exile, justice for these heinous crimes remains elusive.

Despite the widespread killings, organized crime, looting, and murders of Kashmiri Pandits, no one has ever faced trial in a court of law for convictions except Yaseen Malik, who has been convicted by Delhi court, though, there have been instances where terrorists have openly admitted on national television to killing dozens of Kashmiri Pandits.

The Need for Accountability: The failure of political parties, civil society, and the courts in India to address the issues faced by Kashmiri Pandits has only exacerbated their suffering. The lack of accountability and the inability to ensure their safety have led to an increase in targeted attacks, compelling even those who had not initially migrated in 1990 to flee from Kashmir. The demand for justice, security, and a safe return to their homeland remains unfulfilled.

Will the Kashmiri Pandits ever be able to return home?

Conclusion:
The exodus of Kashmiri Pandits in exile is a tragic reminder of the immense pain and loss suffered by the community. The pursuit of justice for the atrocities committed against them is an ongoing struggle that requires unwavering commitment from all stakeholders. The restoration of peace, security, and the rebuilding of trust and harmony within the region are crucial steps toward healing the wounds of the past. It is imperative that the voices of Kashmiri Pandits are heard, their suffering acknowledged, and measures taken to ensure their safe return and a just future. Let us collectively work towards a society where such exoduses are no longer a reality and where justice and peace prevail.

This is the excerpt from my book – Uprooted and Forlorn: The Tale of Kashmiri Pandits in Exile.
The book narrates the story of My Shattered Roots: A Heartbreaking Account of Exile and Loss.

It was a bright and hot day of June 1992 The clock was striking at 2 PM. I was just woken up to my drowsy medicines, my mom said,” Two respected people from my native village have come down to seek my welfare” These two men were AbdulAhad Wani and Ghulam Hassan Parry.

Seeing me alive was the hardest thing to believe and they hugged me so tightly as if they have never seen me before. I could sense the warm, affectionate love in their eyes. Tears were rolling down from their eyes in Jubilation. Wiping those tears from their eyes, Abdul Ahad Wani hugged me again saying affectionately that I would live for two hundred years.

I could not understand the mystery behind it; It was very hard for me to decode the message. Though I was curious to understand what transpired for them to hug me so tightly in awe with their moist eyes, I was unable to get any clue. Curiosity has its reason for existence and it was enough to try merely to comprehend this mystery before my dad revealed it all My Dad told me that in my village Qazigund, a rumour started that I died of my illness.

The fact was my illness was seriously overstated and spread by some miscreants in Kashmir. It was true that I was suffering from a vague headache for the last two years. By then I have consulted many physicians, neurologists, and ENT specialists but was of little help. Since some people from Kashmir visited intermittently to seek my parents’ welfare in Udhampur ( Jammu Division) they got to know of my headache which was exaggerated to a level that reprobates exaggerated it to declare my death. Since my dad was loved immensely in Kashmir for guiding and educating people of the area.

I was also loved by the whole village alike. Many families exhibit great grief at my death and did not prepare their usual food the day my death was announced. Many families decided altogether to condole my death by visiting my parents in Udhampur. They decided to hire a bus before they were stopped by Abdul Ahad Wani- One of the most respectable heads of my village agreed that a couple of people would understand the situation to see if death was the reality, then only others would follow accordingly.

As this had turned out to be a hoax, they were thrilled to see me alive hugging and kissing me incessantly. I was overwhelmed by their love and good wishes showered on me. The event took me back to the flashback memory of citing the reason for my headaches, which was still not understood by then. I went back to recall the dark cold night of 19th January 1990 when I was chilling to enjoy my winter with Uncle ( Mama Ji) in Chota Bazar to prepare the two remaining papers in English and Mathematics

From Exile to Enlightenment Welcome: A Literal Journey

From Exile to Enlightenment Welcome: A Literal Journal is a comprehensive account of my community’s experiences. This website is devoted entirely to celebrating and documenting the various aspects of my community’s journey, from the challenges of exile to the triumphs of enlightenment.

I am a Kashmiri Pandit author who has written several books on a wide range of topics, including the heartbreaking exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, the sacred teachings of the Upanishads, the world of yellow journalism, thrilling mysteries, heartwarming short stories, and thought-provoking essays.

My goal is to inspire, educate, and entertain readers with my writing. I believe that stories have the power to change the world, and I am committed to using my voice to tell stories that matter.

Uprooted and Forlorn: The Tale of Kashmiri Pandits in Exile

My book “Uprooted and Forlorn: The Tale of Kashmiri Pandits in Exile” is a personal account of the forced displacement of my community. I was born in Kashmir in 1970, and I witnessed firsthand the violence and chaos that led to the exodus of over 300,000 Kashmiri Pandits from their homeland.

In this book, I share the stories of my family and friends, as well as the stories of other Kashmiri Pandits who have been forced to live in exile. I also explore the political and historical factors that led to the exodus, and I discuss the challenges that Kashmiri Pandits continue to face today.

Kashmiri pandits: A tale of solitude & Survival
Kashmiri pandits: A tale of solitude & Survival is  one another book, which a reflection of the journey that my community has taken. We have been forced to live in exile for over 34 years, but we have not given up hope. We continue to fight for justice and equality, and we believe that one day we will be able to return to our homeland.

Upanishad: The Concentrated Wisdom

One more book that I discovered and
which is dedicated to my community is “Upanishad: The Concentrated
Wisdom.” As I began to delve into its pages, I found a treasure trove of
ancient philosophical insights from India. The Upanishads, with their profound
teachings, have always held a special place in our culture.

Within its sacred verses, I came
across profound dialogues between sages and their disciples, exploring the
deepest aspects of existence. The Upanishads reveal the essence of the Vedic
teachings, guiding us towards a better understanding of reality, the self
(Atman), and the ultimate truth (Brahman).

As I read on, I found myself drawn
into the world of meditation, karma, and dharma. The Upanishads emphasize the
importance of self-inquiry and direct realization, urging us to seek truth with
an open mind and heart rather than merely accepting beliefs blindly.

I feel truly blessed to have come
across this invaluable source of wisdom that resonates deeply with our
community’s beliefs and values. It has provided me with a renewed sense of
purpose and a greater understanding of life’s mysteries. I am eager to share
its teachings with my fellow community members, as I believe it holds the
potential to bring about positive transformations in our lives.

I dedicate all my books to my community because I want to forge a strong bond of solidarity among us. I don’t just want to write stories; I want to give a voice to those who have been silenced, ensuring that our struggles and aspirations are recognized and acknowledged. I want our history to be remembered, our identity celebrated, and our dreams cherished.

Each word I pen in these books is a testament to my unwavering dedication to my community. I believe that by sharing our stories, we can create understanding, empathy, and support from the wider world. It is my humble way of giving back to my community, preserving our legacy, and leaving a lasting impact for generations to come. Together, we stand united, from exile to enlightenment welcome, embracing our shared journey with hope and resilience.