Kashmir: SIT directed to investigate unlawful sale of temple land

Manoj Sinha, the lieutenant governor of Jammu and Kashmir, has ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to look into the unauthorised leasing of and usage of temple properties in Kashmir. This matter was first raised up by Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Sam.

Aadil Fareed, Assistant Commissioner with Divisional Commissioner, citing a communication from LG’s office has written to all deputy commissioners in Kashmir to ascertain any instance of illegal lease of temple property in the district and necessary action taken under the rules with intimation to this office. Moreover, provide the updated inventory of Religious Minority Properties as temple, Gurdwara, and others to this office within a week’s time.

A copy of the said communication has also been sent to Satish Mahaldar, president of JK Peace Forum, a migrant Kashmiri Pandit organisation working for the restoration of Kashmiri Pandits in Kashmir.

Hundreds of properties belonging to temples in Kashmir had become riotous after the relocation of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir in the 90s. Many such possessions were rented or sold by land sharks in Kashmir supposedly in involvement with revenue officials.