Srinagar, June 28 (JKNS): Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday chaired a high-level meeting with civil, police, and religious leaders to review preparedness for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, stating that joint coordination and public participation were key to the pilgrimage’s peaceful conduct.
LG Manoj Sinha, as per JKNS, chaired the meeting which witnessed the presence of civil society members representing key sectors such as transport, trade, tourism, and religious organizations.
The meeting, as per JKNS, was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Principal Secretary to the LG Mandeep K. Bhandari, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Special DG Police SJM Geelani, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir V.K. Bidhuri, Inspector General of Police Vidhi Kumar Birdi, Commissioner Secretary Tourism Yasha Mudgal, Waqf Board Chairperson Dr. Darakhshan Andrabi, and other senior officials.
The meeting aimed at seeking inputs from stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and well-coordinated Yatra.
Addressing the gathering, LG Sinha, as per news agency JKNS, said, “I’m thankful to all of you for your presence. For the past few months, we’ve been holding regular meetings to review preparations for the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.”
Referring to terrain and weather challenges, he noted, “There are tough terrains and unpredictable weather conditions, but our collective aim is to make this Yatra as smooth and successful as possible.”
He appreciated the decades-long commitment of those involved in the pilgrimage. “You have all been tirelessly working for this Yatra for years, and your contribution is deeply appreciated,” LG said, as per news agency JKNS.
Speaking on faith and harmony, LG Sinha invoked a traditional Kashmiri phrase, “Khudai Chu Ekh, Naav Chis Setha.” “There is only one God with many names.” He said the Yatra represents a shared spiritual culture and peaceful coexistence.
Referring to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, he said, “What happened in Pahalgam and how spontaneously people came out in protest — I have not seen anything like this in my five years as LG.”
He further said, “While the fight against terrorism is a major challenge, the security forces are fully committed. But people of Kashmir also have a role to play in this fight.”
On pilgrim turnout, he said, “This year, we’ve seen a 10.19 percent drop in Yatra registrations. However, 85 percent of those who registered before April 22 said they still intend to undertake the pilgrimage.”
Calling for local involvement, he said, “We need the participation of local people to make this Yatra a success. Their involvement is crucial not just for logistics but also for building trust and security.”
Commenting on earlier remarks by the Chief Minister, LG Sinha said, “The Pahalgam attack has brought Kashmir under national and international focus. The world is watching us. This increases our responsibility.”
He added, “We have taken all the suggestions from stakeholders in the meeting. We will implement the essential ones.”
LG Sinha said that while many religious leaders wished to welcome the devotees, it may not be formally possible this time. “In their personal capacity, anyone is free to meet devotees,” he added.
Meanwhile, talking to reporters after the meeting, as per JKNS, LG Sinha said, “On June 26, I discussed the Amarnath Yatra and Muharram with all senior leaders of Jammu & Kashmir at Raj Bhavan. Today, I met with members of civil society, religious leaders, and traders. Everyone has assured their cooperation in making the Amarnath Yatra successful.” (JKNS)
