Ganderbal, June 22 (KNS): National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Monday expressed hope that Kashmiri Pandits would soon return to the Valley and live alongside the local population, saying people in Kashmir want them back.

Abdullah made the remarks while visiting the revered Kheer Bhawani temple at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district on the occasion of the annual Mela Kheer Bhawani.

Speaking to reporters, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said the return of the migrant community would strengthen the bonds of brotherhood in the Valley.

“It is the blessings of this deity that brotherhood, which had been missing for many years, is visible again. We pray that the day is not far when Kashmiri Pandits return to their homes and live among us,” he said.

Asked about the possibility of the community’s return, Abdullah said efforts were needed from both sides and that the Pandits should also take the initiative.

“I believe a person has to make an effort himself. If he does not try, how can he return? Everything else is here. We also pray that the day comes soon,” he said.

Thousands of devotees from Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of the country visited the temple shrine on Monday to participate in the annual festival, one of the most significant religious events for the Kashmiri Pandit community.

The Kheer Bhawani temple, dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, attracts devotees every year who offer prayers and seek blessings during the mela.(KNS).