Jammu, March 19: A delegation of Kashmiri Pandits, led by Ranjeet Gurkha, President of Shri Jagat Amba Sharika Chakreshwari Sanastha Trust , Devi Angan, Srinagar, met J&K Chief Secretary Atul Dulloo in Jammu on Wednesday to advocate for the recognition and preservation of their sacred sites.
As per a statement issued here, the delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting key demands, including–inclusion of Shri Sharika Chakreshwari Devi Temple on J&K’s official tourist map – believed to be over 5,100 years old, the temple at Devi Angan, Hari Parbat, Srinagar, is considered the presiding deity of Kashmir and holds immense cultural and spiritual importance. The delegation also demanded restoration of the historic Gulmarg temple. “The delegation requested that the temple be handed over to the Sanastha for rehabilitation, citing growing demand from devotees,” the statement said, adding that it also called for timely completion of approved projects. “The delegation urged the government to expedite pending restoration and development works,” the statement said. Chief Secretary Atul Dulloo assured the delegation of necessary action, reaffirming the government’s commitment to preserving the religious and cultural heritage. The delegation also included M.L. Suthoo, Vijay Qazi, J.K. Khar, Advocate Arun Dhar and B.L. Jalali.
