An important development in the state Jammu and Kashmir has been made on Tuesday, the administration has created a portal for Kashmiri Pandits to reclaim their properties that were left behind. A recent order by the J&K administration to fully implement the Immovable Property Act for Kashmiri Pandits led to the action regarding the properties. The implementation was ordered by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on August 13.

The administration has taken the decision to ensure rehabilitation for Kashmiri Pandits within the Union Territory. This also comes as another major decision by the administration after the abrogation of Article 370. In the aftermath of the exodus, thousands of Kashmiri Pandits left behind their properties in the erstwhile state that were subsequently encroached or sold at throwaway prices.

Reports indicate that a mechanism has been put in place by the administration to ensure that District Commissioners have devolution of authority. In addition, some amendments have been made to the laws, particularly, the laws of 1976 and 1997. Also, the District Commissioners are now responsible for monitoring illegal encroachment even if no complaint has been filed. In the meantime, the owners who left must be registered on the portal and must mention where their property is located and the year when they left the property. In addition, they have also been asked to mention if anyone has encroached on the property.

Earlier in August, Jammu and Kashmir's Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had ordered the full implementation of the Immovable Property Act for Kashmiri Pandits. Sinha directed the authorities to take action against anyone violating the J&K Migrant Immovable Property Act 1997.

Further, the administration has ensured that it will take timely action against any violation of the Act including with respect to religious properties, as well as ensuring their eviction, custody, and restoration of such properties. They are preventing possible encroachment on Kashmiri Pandit’s immovable assets in the valley by taking this action. Sinha had also ordered the authorities to conduct surveys and take stock of properties left behind by the migrants.

Reacting to the decision, Kashmiri pandit activist Ashoke Pandit spoke to weigh in on the move. He urged the Centre to involve the community in the decision-making process. He said, "One of my friends has 3-4 acres of orchards and he is not able to reclaim that while staying in Kashmir. I am not doubting the intention of the present government. We are very lucky to have PM Modi, Amit Shah and the entire government to take a lead in resettling Kashmiri pandits. But the reclamation of land and rehabilitation of Kashmiri Hindus is a tiring job. I request the Government to involve us- Kashmiri Hindus in the entire process."

Image source: Swarajya