By Tehelka Web Desk
Srinagar, Sep 24: Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor on Thursday voiced support for PDP MLA Aga Syed Muntazir’s Private Member’s Bill on the return and reintegration of Kashmiri Pandits, describing it as an important cause that he has supported for a long time.
Muntazir is scheduled to introduce the Kashmiri Pandit and Migrant Re-integration Private Bill in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
In a post on X, Tharoor said, “I look forward to Mehdi’s proposal being introduced tomorrow and hopefully, considered by the Assembly in due course. I hope the Assembly has a substantive and constructive discussion on this important issue, with reconciliation, dignity and the restoration of a sense of belonging at its heart.”
Tharoor said the safe, dignified and sustainable return and reintegration of Kashmiri Pandits was a cause he had supported for years and that he had also attempted to legislate on the issue through a Private Member’s Bill in Parliament.
“My own Bill on the same subject, which is slightly different, was first submitted in 2022 and resubmitted in 2024 after the constitution of the 18th Lok Sabha,” he said.
He added, “After years of waiting, it was finally listed for introduction in March this year, but could not be taken up amid disruptions and the Government’s failure to facilitate meaningful Private Members’ Business.”
Tharoor also praised Muntazir for taking up the issue.
“I commend my young friend for taking up this important cause and wish him well,” he said.
The proposed bill is aimed at addressing the return and reintegration of Kashmiri Pandits and migrants, and is expected to come up for discussion in the Assembly.
