Ganderbal, Jun 22 (KNO): National Conference President, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Member Parliament Sat Sharma (CA), BJP J&K President, along with BJP General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul and Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti visited the revered Mata Kheer Bhawani Shrine at Tulmulla in Ganderbal on Monday on the occasion of the annual Kheer Bhawani Mela.
NC President Farooq Abdullah while talking to the reporters, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said it is the blessings of Mata Kheer Bhawani that communal harmony and brotherhood are strengthening. He said people across Kashmir want Kashmiri Pandits to return and live peacefully with their fellow residents.
He said that necessary measures have been taken by the government, including the Centre, to facilitate their return and expressed hope that the community would soon be able to resettle in their native places.
The BJP leaders also paid obeisance at the holy shrine and offered prayers for lasting peace, communal harmony, prosperity, and the well-being of the people of Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.
Interacting with devotees, Sat Sharma extended his greetings to the Kashmiri Pandit community and all pilgrims participating in the annual mela. He highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of the Kheer Bhawani Mela, describing it as a symbol of Kashmir's rich heritage and centuries-old traditions of faith and harmony.
Ashok Koul said the annual pilgrimage reflects the deep-rooted spiritual ethos of Jammu & Kashmir and reaffirmed the party's commitment to preserving and promoting the region's cultural and religious heritage. He appreciated the efforts of the administration and all stakeholders in ensuring smooth arrangements for the devotees.
The leaders prayed for peace, progress, and a brighter future for Jammu & Kashmir, while extending their best wishes to all devotees visiting the revered shrine.
PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said, “I am very happy to see our Kashmiri Pandit brothers and sisters arriving here. They should look forward to the future and forget what happened in the past. I believe young Kashmiri Pandit doctors should come to Kashmir and connect with people here. The J&K govt should provide them with facilities. Brotherhood should be maintained.”—(KNO)