Should the Centre Make Exceptions for PoK Women Married to Kashmiri Men?
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Synopsis
On April 29, Mehbooba Mufti, former J&K Chief Minister, urged the Government of India to reconsider the deportation of Pakistani nationals, particularly for women married to locals. This plea raises crucial humanitarian questions about family integrity and the long-term residents of Jammu & Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
- Mehbooba Mufti advocates for humanitarian consideration regarding deportations.
- Women married to locals are integral to J&K society.
- Long-term residents face emotional distress due to deportation policies.
- Many seek Indian citizenship after decades of residency.
- Husbands have abandoned militancy and contribute to society.
Srinagar, April 29 (NationPress) Mehbooba Mufti, the former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and current President of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on the Government of India to consider exceptions for women from Pakistan during the ongoing deportation of Pakistani nationals. These women, who have lived in India for 30-40 years, married local men, and established families, deserve special consideration.
The recent directive to deport all Pakistani nationals has sparked significant humanitarian concerns, especially in Jammu & Kashmir. Many of those impacted are women who have integrated into Indian society over decades.
“We appeal to the government to rethink this decision and adopt a more compassionate stance towards vulnerable groups such as women, children, and the elderly. Forcing those who have peacefully contributed to our nation for years to leave is not only cruel but will also result in severe emotional and physical distress for families who now consider India their home,” she stated.
It is important to note that numerous local youths who went to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) for militant training returned under a previous rehabilitation policy from the state government.
Many of these men married Pakistani women during their time in PoK, and these women have since resided in Kashmir without official approval.
Over the years, these women have sought to obtain Indian citizenship, as most are originally from PoK, which is recognized by parliamentary resolution as an integral part of J&K.
As of now, no definitive action has been taken regarding their citizenship status, and they continue to raise families and lead lives akin to any ordinary citizen of the Union Territory.
The husbands of these women have abandoned militancy and are now contributing positively to society through various professions, including business, agriculture, and education.
Point of View
The deportation of long-term residents raises ethical questions regarding family unity and the treatment of individuals who have contributed to society. The plea for compassion emphasizes the need for humane policies that consider the human element behind political decisions.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mehbooba Mufti's request regarding deportations?
Mehbooba Mufti has requested that the Government of India consider exceptions for women from Pakistan married to local men, emphasizing their long-standing contributions to society.
Why are there concerns about the deportation policy?
The deportation policy raises humanitarian concerns, particularly regarding the impact on families who have lived in India for decades and may face emotional and physical distress.
What is the status of Pakistani women married to Indians?
Many Pakistani women married to Indian citizens have lived in Jammu & Kashmir without official sanction and are seeking Indian citizenship.
What professions do the husbands of these women engage in?
The husbands of these women have transitioned from militancy to leading normal lives, engaging in business, agriculture, and education.
What has been the response from the government regarding these women?
As of now, no definitive action has been taken regarding the citizenship status of these women despite their ongoing pleas for recognition.
