Examiner Bureau | Anantnag:
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday urged the people of Kashmir to view the upcoming Amarnath Yatra as an opportunity to strengthen communal harmony and counter negative perceptions about the Valley and its people.
Speaking in Pahalgam, one of the main base camps for the annual pilgrimage, Mufti said every Amarnath pilgrim visiting Kashmir should be treated as a valued guest and an ambassador who carries back stories of the region’s culture, traditions and hospitality to different parts of the country.
“Every Amarnath pilgrim who visits us is a guest of Kashmir. They carry the story of our land, our people and our values to every corner of India. It is our responsibility to ensure they leave with memories of our love, warmth and hospitality,” she said.
Mufti stressed that ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the Yatra should not be seen solely as the responsibility of security agencies, but as a collective duty of the people of Kashmir.
Highlighting the importance of the pilgrimage in fostering social cohesion, she said that at a time of increasing polarization and mistrust, the Amarnath Yatra provides a valuable opportunity to build bridges, strengthen human connections and promote mutual understanding.
According to Mufti, pilgrims act as ambassadors who share their experiences of Kashmir with their families and communities upon returning home. She noted that every interaction with yatris presents an opportunity to showcase Kashmir’s long-standing traditions of hospitality, compassion and coexistence.
The PDP leader also asserted that misinformation and prejudice directed against Kashmir and its people can be effectively challenged through genuine human outreach and a heartfelt welcome extended to visitors.
Calling for greater local participation, Mufti said the Amarnath Yatra should be a locally supported and locally protected initiative that reflects the true spirit of Kashmir and its people.
The annual Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to commence next month amid extensive security and logistical arrangements being put in place by the administration.
