Jammu, May 6: Displaced Kashmiri Pandits staged a protest in Jammu against their integration into the National Food Security Act (NFSA), with minor scuffles reported as police stopped them from marching towards the Relief Commissioner’s office.
Hundreds of protesters, including members of Panun Kashmir and the United Alliance of Kashmiri Displaced Community, gathered outside the office raising slogans against the move. Police later dispersed the crowd after brief pushing incidents.
The administration has begun integrating migrant ration cards into the NFSA database, with over 17,500 cards already included and around 50,000 families expected to be covered.
Protesters termed the move a threat to their identity, alleging it would dilute their status as displaced persons. Community leaders demanded rollback of the decision and continuation of the existing relief system.
Panun Kashmir convenor Agnishaker called the move unjust and raised concerns over recognition of their identity in future processes. Another leader, Arvind Kaul, alleged restrictions on their right to protest and sought permanent rehabilitation.
The protesters warned of intensifying agitation if their demands are not addressed.
