A Pandit braved militant threats and stayed back in the Valley just to serve a noble cause: To impart quality education
SRINAGAR: For those who preach hatred, this should be the eye-opener. A Pandit braved militant threats and stayed back in the Valley just to serve a noble cause: To impart quality education to poor Muslim children.
Seventeen years on, 47 year-old M L Bhat is a most respected resident of Ganpatayar, once a hub of militancy, where he runs Lal Ded Memorial High School set up by revered poet Dina Nath Nadim of Bambooro Bamboora fame.
The story dates back to 1990 when Kashmir started smouldering. Bhat, 30, was forced to close down his own school Sher-e-Kashmr Public School because of turmoil and joined Lal Ded School. It was a big risk as the area was the hub of militancy and most of the Pandits living in the area had migrated.
"One of the Pandit teachers of a neighbouring school was shot dead by the militants. This made things more complicated. But I decided to stay put and continue with my mission because the students studying in this school belonged to lower middle class families," said Bhat.
Bhat too was not spared and attempts were made to send him packing. "I remember an incident when two of my students chased me issuing threats. I did not respond then, but could recognise their voice. The next day I deliberately asked the students to answer the queries loudly. I got them; they were students of ninth class. I did not disclose anything, but gave a lecture on morality, respect and ethics. They realised it later and became my devoted students," he said.
His initial stint with the school was short lived. He served it for four years and then left in a huff.
During his absence the school suffered immensely. The J&K Board of School Education derecognised the school, the number of students dwindled and the staff was not paid for seven months.
"Then I was approached by the people of the locality who wanted me to join again. I joined back in 2000 and started a new innings," Bhat said.
Today the school has 324 students and 25 staff members, and majority of them are Muslims
"The school has done well after Bhat joined. The school has a library and computer facilities," said B L Shah, one of the trustees of the school.
Even students are feeling the change. "Earlier we were lacking in exposure. When Bhat Sir came we were taught different things. Now we can participate in debates, symposiums and extracurricular activities. I was myself shy but Bhat Sir gave me confidence and now I participate in these activities," said Nasreena, a class 10th student.
Locals too are experiencing the benefits. "Under his guidance the school has prospered by leaps and bounds. It is for the first time that the school is reached to such dizzy heights", said Jana, a local resident who works as peon in the school.
The story does not end here. Bhat is offering free education to the students whose parents cannot afford it. "Every year we give free education to 20 students who are orphans or living below the poverty line,” Bhat added.
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