Srinagar, Jan 19: Senior political leader and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah stated on Monday that the children of Kashmiri Pandits are unlikely to return to the Valley permanently, as they are now settled and pursuing education across India.

Talking to reporters, Abdullah said the younger generation has built lives outside Kashmir and would likely return only as visitors. He emphasized that the ground reality has changed over the years and must be acknowledged.

Abdullah recalled past efforts to encourage the return of Kashmiri Pandits, including assurances for proper rehabilitation. However, many did not return, and subsequent political developments further altered the situation.

He added that the matter of return and rehabilitation is no longer solely local and now rests with the Central Government.

The former Chief Minister noted that prolonged displacement has had a deep impact on generations of Kashmiri Pandits, particularly children who have grown up outside the Valley and established social, educational, and professional roots elsewhere.