October 7, 2016
Dear Indian citizens and foreign nationals,
As you may know, for over 27 years of conflict in the Kashmir valley, a few Kashmiri Pandits have taken a brave and principled stand to stay, preserving their home, culture and hearth. The Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti (KPSS) represents them and is led by Mr Sanjay Tickoo, its dynamic President. (Please see details in articles below).
The escalation of conflict in recent months this year has left the Pandits particularly vulnerable. 808 Pandit families still live in the valley, according to the KPSS, of which 125 are facing a deep economic crisis today. Their subsistence depends upon the private sector. With offices shut and salaries not paid, starvation looms. Besides, sufferers of chronic ailments need help with medical expenses.
Yesterday, I had a call from Mr Sanjay Tickoo. In his quiet and dignified way he explained the dire circumstances. I urged him to write the requirements in detail. They are basic needs — food and medicines. He has suggested a transfer of donations into his personal bank: he promises full details of the disbursement. Since the amounts are modest but urgently needed, I urge that we do not delay. Mumbai alone can claim the humanitarian credit for responding. And quickly.
I request that you kindly copy Citizens for Justice & Peace on any communication you may have with Mr Sanjay Tickoo of the KPSS so that we can monitor how this appeal has been received.
Immediate needs:
Financial assistance, for monthly minimal rations, for at least 35 Kashmiri Pandit families living in Kashmir Valley @ Rs.5000/- per family per month. Please consider supporting for at least 4 months initially since winters in the Valley are fierce.
Rs. 5,000 x 35 families= Rs. 1,75,000
Rs. 1,75,000 x 4 months = Rs 7,00,000 (Seven Lakhs)
Financial assistance, for monthly medical expenses, for at least 52 patients living in the Kashmir Valley @ Rs.3000/- per patient per month. Again, please consider supporting at least for 4 months initially through winter.
Rs.3,000 x 52 patients = Rs. 1,56,000
Rs. 1,56,000 x 4 months = 6,24,000 (Rs. Six lakhs, Twenty-four thousand)
Contact Details:
Sanjay K. Tickoo, President, Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti (KPSS)
Mobile: 09906564741
Email: sanjay tickoo <kpss.kashmir@gmail.com>
Bank Account Details:
Sanjay Kumar Tickoo
State Bank of India
Branch Srinagar Residency Road
SB A/C No 33807621676
IFSC Code: SBIN0000722
The Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti (KPSS) has written to the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and to the Home Minister, Rajnath Singh, for the urgent implementation of a rehabilitation package tabled before Parliament in 2009 and 2014.
We would be extremely grateful and obliged if you respond compassionately to this appeal.
Sincerely,
Teesta Setalvad
Secretary & Trustee
