The All Party Migrant Coordination Committee (APMCC) has decided to go ahead with the pilgrimage to the sacred Kaunsarnag Lake in South Kashmir's Pirchanchal ranges and has sought security from the state government.
"APMCC has once again applied for security arrangements for a group of 20 Kashmiri Pandits to visit the sacred Lake, also known as 'Kramsaras-Vishnupaad Tirtha'," APMCC chairman Vinood Pandit said today.
APMCC, an organisation of displaced Kashmiri Pandits working for renovation and rebuilding of temples damaged in 25 years long militancy in Kashmir, has organised the yatra.
He said that yatra would be undertaken in the forthcoming holy 'Pitra Pakhsha' in September to pray for the peace of the departed souls of the community as also for world peace.
A fresh letter written by APMCC chairman Pandit to the Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam district, with copies also sent to the Chief Minister, Union Home Minister and PMO, has sought security for 20 Kashmiri Pandits willing to take the yatra.
Pandit said since the Chief Minister had categorically blamed his own administration for mishandling of the affair last time and that the state government was not averse to Pandits visiting the lake, the organisation has decided to submit fresh application for security cover.
APMCC had earlier applied for security to some Kashmiri Pandits which was accepted by the administration, but was later withdrawn at the last moment apparently under pressure from separatists. It was, however, laid to rest with the Chief Minister himself prompting them to apply afresh.
APMCC General Secretary Arun Kandroo hoped that the district administration would extend the facilities for the 20 Kashmiri Pandits this time.
