Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 4: – Prem Nath Bhat Memorial Trust (PNBMT) organised a protest demonstration here, today seeking the immediate passage of the long-pending Temples and Shrines Bill, for the protection of the ancient religious heritage of Kashmiri Hindus.
The demonstration saw enthusiastic participation from members of Barnai, Anuradha Puram, Bantalab and senior leadership of the Trust including some socio -political activists. The gathering raised slogans demanding legislation to safeguard the temples and shrines of Kashmir, many of which continue to face neglect and encroachment.
The programme was attended by prominent community members, including C.L. Bhat, Anil Pandita, Ravinder Koul, Roshan Lal Hangloo, Surinder Kumar Bhat, Jai Krishna Bhat, Avtar Krishna Dhar, Shivani Koul, Inder Krishna Raina, and Romesh Marhatta.
Addressing the gathering, C.L. Pandita, vice chairman of PNBMT, presented an elaborate report of the Trust’s recent outreach programmes held at Jagti, Muthi Village, and Gole Gujral. He informed that people in these areas assured massive participation in the forthcoming Chetna Diwas. He said that during these programmes, residents raised several issues, including matters related to rehabilitation and the urgent need for legal protection of temples in Kashmir.
In his remarks, senior leader Kashmiri Lal urged community members to participate in such programmes and demonstrate collective strength in numbers. He also made a special appeal to the youth to come forward and take responsibility for community causes.
Virender Raina president, Panun Kashmir (PK) highlighted that the consistent campaign of PNBMT has significantly increased public awareness about the endangered temples of Kashmir. “As a direct result of our efforts, the Government has initiated renovation works in many temples across the Valley. Today, even cases of encroachment are halted and removed promptly”, he said.
Chairing the function, Chand Ji Bhat emphasised the need for a strong political engagement to ensure the passage of the Temples and Shrines Bill. He stated that peaceful protest demonstrations remain an effective method to build sustained pressure on policymakers and keep the issue alive.
The proceedings were conducted by Shadi Lal Koul Rais, general secretary of the Trust.
Trending Now
E-Paper
Follow our WhatsApp channel