West Pak refugees’ delegation calls on Dr Jitendra

New Delhi, July 18: West Pakistan Refugees (WPR) Thursday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for abrogating Article 370, thus granting them citizenship which was denied to them for seven decades.

They extended their gratitude when a delegation of ‘West Pakistani Refugees’ (WPR) Association led by Labha Ram Gandhi met the Union Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh this evening in New Delhi.

The refugees, during their meeting with Dr Jitendra, who is the Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Science and Technology; Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences besides being MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi for its unwavering support and assistance during their times of hardship and displacement.

As per a statement issued to the press, refugees said, “We are deeply touched by the kindness and generosity shown towards us, ensuring our well-being and integration into Indian society.”
Recalling the injustice served to them over seven decades, the Association accused the erstwhile previous governments of turning a deaf ear to their issues and problems. Refugees were also saddened over the fact they were deprived of their right to vote and lawful citizenship for political gains.

West Pakistani Refugees (WPRs) are those who migrated from areas in the West Pakistan in the wake of partition in the year 1947 and settled in the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir, mainly in Jammu, Kathua and Rajouri districts of Jammu division. These families migrated to Jammu in the wake of 1947 aggression by Pakistan.
The refugees claimed abrogation of Article 370, a historic move which brought justice to many unheard voices in Jammu and Kashmir. They also shared with the minister, who also represents Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency for the 3rd consecutive term, that the refugees would have a grand celebration on the eve of August 5 on completion of 5 years to the abrogation Of Article 370 which denied them citizenship and right to vote for so many years.
On the sidelines, the Association requested the minister to help in the expedition of compensation and redressal of other grievances.

Dr Jitendra assured them of swift action and time bound redressal of grievances.

The Association members thanked Dr Jitendra for his proactive efforts which not only alleviated their suffering but also gave them hope for a brighter future. “We pledge to contribute positively to our adopted homeland and strive towards its progress and prosperity. We thank the Government of India, for embracing us with open arms and granting us a chance to begin anew,” said the refugees.