In a historic address in Parliament, Union Home Minister Amit Shah commended the reconstruction of the Sharda Temple and a Sikh Gurdwara near the Line of Control (LoC) in Teetwal, Karnah, Kupwara. Describing it as a “momentous achievement after 75 years,” Shah emphasized the restoration’s significance in preserving India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Highlighting the temple’s importance, Shah remarked, “The Sharda Temple is not just a sacred site but a testament to India’s ancient tradition of knowledge and spirituality. Its reconstruction has reignited the pride and faith of devotees worldwide.”
The Sharda Temple, dedicated to Goddess Sharda, has historically been a prominent seat of learning and spiritual enlightenment. Its revival was widely celebrated by religious and cultural groups, who view it as a key step in reclaiming Kashmir’s historical and cultural identity.
Amit Shah also reaffirmed the BJP government's commitment to addressing the concerns of Kashmiri Pandits and announced plans to work on opening the Sharda Corridor at Teetwal crossing points in collaboration with Pakistan. "The revival of Teetwal’s Sharda Temple marks the beginning of a greater mission to reclaim the Sharda Sarvagnya Peeth in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK)," Shah stated, highlighting the government’s broader vision for preserving India’s sacred sites.
In past media briefings, Shah consistently underlined the BJP’s dedication to solving the challenges faced by Kashmiri Pandits. He noted that these efforts align with the government’s strategy to foster unity, cultural rejuvenation, and peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Save Sharda Committee, which has been actively advocating for the revival of Sharda heritage, expressed gratitude to the government for prioritizing the reconstruction. The organization emphasized that the restoration reflects a broader commitment to unity and cultural revival in Jammu and Kashmir.
The reclamation of sacred sites like the Sharda Temple is not only a symbol of India’s spiritual resilience but also a beacon of hope for fostering peace and shared heritage in the region.
