Find it Absurd: J&K CM as Helicopter Service Not Allowed in Amarnath Yatra Route
The upcoming Amarnath Yatra has been shrouded in controversy, with the latest development being the declaration of the Yatra route as a ‘no flying zone’ due to security concerns. This move has sparked a heated debate, with Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressing his disagreement with the decision. In a recent statement, Abdullah referred to the decision as “absurd” and expressed his concerns about the message it may send to the rest of the nation about J&K’s situation.
The Amarnath Yatra, one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimages, is set to begin on June 30. The trek, which takes devotees from Pahalgam in Anantnag district to the Amarnath shrine in South Kashmir, is a 45-kilometer journey that is expected to attract thousands of pilgrims from across the country. However, the recent decision to ban helicopter services in the Yatra route has left many pilgrims and locals alike feeling frustrated and concerned.
The decision to declare the Yatra route as a ‘no flying zone’ was made by the Centre, citing security concerns. According to reports, the move was taken to prevent any potential threats to the Yatra, which is considered a sensitive and high-profile event. The Centre has also deployed additional security forces in the region to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
However, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his disagreement with the decision, terming it “absurd”. In a recent statement, Abdullah said, “This could send a wrong message to the rest of the nation about J&K’s situation. We have been working hard to improve the security situation in the state, and this decision will only create confusion.” Abduallah also added that he is happy that the Yatra is going to start soon, and that the state government is fully committed to ensuring its smooth conduct.
Abdullah’s comments have sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the wisdom behind the decision. While the security concerns are understandable, many feel that the ban on helicopter services will only lead to inconvenience and frustration for pilgrims. The ban will also affect the local economy, as many locals depend on the helicopter services for their livelihood.
The Amarnath Yatra is a significant event in J&K, and its conduct is closely watched by the Centre and the state government. The Yatra is not only a symbol of faith for millions of Hindus, but it also provides a boost to the local economy. The ban on helicopter services will not only affect the pilgrims but also the local vendors and shopkeepers who rely on the Yatra for their income.
On the other hand, the security concerns are genuine, and the Centre has taken a cautious approach to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. The deployment of additional security forces in the region is a welcome move, and the state government is working closely with the Centre to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
In conclusion, while the decision to ban helicopter services in the Amarnath Yatra route may have been taken with the best of intentions, it has sparked a heated debate. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s comments have added fuel to the fire, with many questioning the wisdom behind the decision. As the Yatra approaches, it is essential to find a balance between security concerns and the needs of the pilgrims. The state government and the Centre must work together to ensure the smooth conduct of the Yatra, while also addressing the concerns of the pilgrims and the local community.
News Source: https://x.com/ANI/status/1935016610705924238
