Kashmiri Pandits/Hindus in the UK organised Exodus Day by holding a special meeting in the House of Commons, London on Thursday 17 January, which was joined by Hindu organisations, British politicians, senior officials from the High Commission of India and students of the National Hindu Students Forum.
The meeting started with a recital of a prayer by Dr Girdhari Bhan, followed by a minutes silence to pay homage to the innocent civilians, prominent Kashmiri Pandits and the Indian Armed Forces who sacrificed their lives. The guests were welcomed by Krishna Bhan, President Indo-European Kashmir Forum.
The selective killings of the Kashmiri Pandits/Hindus in the Valley in 1989-1990 resulted in their mass exodus from the land of their ancestors on 19 January, 1990. Kashmiri Pandits were subjected to terror aimed at ethnic cleansing, they became victims of genocide. The massacres carried out by militants were barbaric and inhumane.
Bob Blackman MP mentioned his visit to Jammu and Kashmir three years ago and highlighted the appalling living conditions of the displaced community, living in two room makeshift apartments in Jammu.Virendra Sharma MP, speaking on this occasion stressed the need for the Kashmiri Hindus to remain proactive in carrying out their struggle in seeking justice. The complete video recording of all speeches will follow shortly. A vote of thanks was given by Shri Satya Minhas, Co-Chair, Hindu Council UK.
