Panun Kashmir Calls for Accurate Classification in Census 2027: 'It's About Rights, Not Migration'

The self-enumeration process for Census 2027 in Jammu and Kashmir has commenced with Panun Kashmir highlighting significant concerns over the classification of displaced Kashmiri Pandits. The group argues that labeling them as 'migrants' distorts their forced displacement as voluntary.

Tito Ganju, the newly appointed chairman of Panun Kashmir, has emphasized the need for Kashmiri Pandits to be recognized as internally displaced genocide victims. According to Ganju, anything less dilutes their plight and misrepresents decades of struggle. The organization insists on a separate homeland within Kashmir, seeing it as essential for constitutional safeguards.

Ganju, a lawyer, also critiqued national welfare legislations that implicitly discriminate against displaced populations. He pointed out the need for specific provisions in the Census that accurately reflect the displacement and its causes, advocating for legislative changes to support their rights.

(With inputs from agencies.)