By May 1990, Islamic terrorism was at its peak in the Kashmir Valley. Hindus were leaving their homes and land to save the lives of their dear ones. We know of many such heart-wrenching stories and the people who either witnessed the barbaric act of terrorism in the valley during the 90s or fell prey to Islamic terrorism. However, another big truth is that Pakistan-backed terrorists could not have succeeded in their evil plans, had the locals not supported them. The radical Islamists betrayed the innocent Kashmiri Hindus in the name of confidants, neighbors, friends, colleagues, and acquaintances and were thus equally involved in many such brutal killings. The killing of Chaman Lal Pandita of Kavusa Khalsa village in Budgam district on May 21, 1990, too was a result of such a conspiracy.

 

A school teacher posted at Mazhama in Badgam, Chaman Lal Pandita was kidnapped and brutally tortured before being murdered. His body bore multiple torture marks when it was recovered from where he was hanged to death. Chaman Lal’s Muslim neighbors had taken him into confidence by advising him to not abandon his home on the promise that they will provide him full protection. Seeing the worsening situation in the valley back then, Pandita had made up his mind to leave his home along with his family. But his Muslim neighbors with whom he resided for years stopped him from doing so and gave him their words, "Do not leave the valley, we will together protect you." Some even said that they will sacrifice their children, but will not let Chaman Lal's family suffer. To this, Chaman Lal changed his mind to leave the valley. However, when he was abducted by the terrorists no one came forward.

 

On May 20, 1990, at around 9:30 am on Sunday, the terrorists first kidnapped teacher Chaman Lal Pandita. None of his neighbors opposed the terrorists or stepped forward to his rescue. On the following day, Chaman Lal's body was found hanging from the tree. His bones were broken. He was mercilessly tortured. His nails were filled with mud that showed how hard Chaman Lal must have fought to save himself. Another life was taken away by the killers, however the killers were never caught. After this barbarous murder, the very helpless Pandita family also left the valley.