Panun Kashmir Slams Centre, Says Gulf Investment Invite Radicalising Youth

In a scathing critique, Panun Kashmir, an organisation representing displaced Kashmiri Pandits, has accused the Indian government of fueling radicalisation among Kashmiri youth by inviting investments from Gulf nations. The group claims that Gulf capital is promoting religious extremism, threatening India’s secular values, and worsening the marginalisation of Hindu minorities in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K).

Why Gulf Investments in J&K Are Controversial

Since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, the Centre has aggressively courted foreign investments to boost J&K’s economy. Delegations from UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf states have been invited to invest in tourism, real estate, and infrastructure. While the government touts this as a game-changer, Panun Kashmir warns of hidden risks.

“Gulf money brings ideological baggage,” said Dr. Agnishekhar, Panun Kashmir’s convenor. “These nations promote Wahhabism, a rigid Islamic ideology linked to global radicalisation. We see its impact on Kashmiri youth.”

Growing Signs of Radicalisation

The group highlights rising religiosity among Kashmiri youth, including:
– Adoption of conservative dress codes
– Influence of Salafist preachers
– Revival of separatist narratives

They allege that Gulf-funded mosques, madrasas, and charities are reshaping Kashmir’s socio-religious fabric, pushing it toward extremism.

“Economic growth shouldn’t erase indigenous culture,” Dr. Agnishekhar stressed. “The government must vet funding sources to stop ideological indoctrination.”

Government Denies Risks, Experts Divided

Officials from the Home Ministry and J&K administration dismiss these concerns, stating that investments undergo strict security checks.

“Our focus is jobs and infrastructure,” an MHA official said. “No evidence ties Gulf funds to radicalisation.”

However, security experts are split:
– Some argue investments are purely economic.
– Others, like counter-terrorism analyst Ajai Sahni, warn of soft power influence: “Gulf NGOs and religious bodies often push geopolitical agendas.”

Kashmiri Pandits Fear Erasure of Identity

For displaced Kashmiri Pandits, the issue is personal. Many fear Gulf-backed Islamisation will erase their heritage and block their return.

“We fled terrorism in the 1990s,” a community member said. “Now, the same forces return as ‘investors’.”

Demands for Accountability

Panun Kashmir urges:
✔ Parliamentary probe into foreign funding in J&K
✔ Stricter oversight of religious institutions
✔ Priority investments from secular nations & Indian firms

Key Takeaways

• Economic vs. Ideological Risks: Gulf investments may boost growth but risk deepening religious divides.
• Security Concerns: Critics demand transparency to prevent radicalisation under the guise of development.
• Kashmiri Pandit Anxiety: The community fears further marginalisation in their homeland.

The debate underscores a critical question: Can Kashmir’s economy grow without compromising its social harmony?

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