Find it Absurd: J&K CM as Helicopter Service not Allowed in Amarnath Yatra Route
The Amarnath Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage to the cave shrine of Amarnath in Jammu and Kashmir, is one of the most revered and popular pilgrimages in India. Every year, lakhs of devotees from across the world undertake this grueling journey to pay homage to Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. However, this year’s yatra has been marred by controversy, with the Jammu and Kashmir government declaring the entire route as a “no flying zone” for helicopters.
In a surprising turn of events, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed his reservations about this decision, calling it “absurd”. In an interview, he stated that he finds the decision to ban helicopter services in the Amarnath Yatra route absurd, adding that it could send a “wrong message to the rest of the nation about J&K’s situation”.
The ban on helicopter services was announced by the government in a bid to improve security measures for the yatra, which is expected to begin on June 29. The decision was taken in consultation with the security agencies and the shrine board, who claimed that the helicopters posed a threat to the pilgrims and the shrine.
However, CM Abdullah’s statement has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the logic behind the decision. “What’s the need to ban helicopters? It’s not like we’re providing a free service. Pilgrims pay for the service, and it’s a convenient way for them to reach the shrine,” he said.
Abdullah’s concerns are not unfounded. The Amarnath Yatra is a challenging and arduous journey, with pilgrims having to trek through treacherous terrain and harsh weather conditions. The addition of helicopter services has made it easier for pilgrims to reach the shrine, especially for those who are elderly, infirm, or have mobility issues.
Moreover, the ban on helicopter services has also raised concerns about the logistics and infrastructure of the yatra. With the number of pilgrims expected to be high this year, the lack of helicopter services could lead to congestion and chaos on the roads, making it difficult for pilgrims to reach the shrine.
While CM Abdullah’s statement has sparked controversy, it’s clear that he is concerned about the impact of the ban on the yatra. In the same interview, he expressed his happiness that the yatra is going to start soon, indicating that he is eager to see the pilgrims embark on this sacred journey.
The government’s decision to ban helicopter services has also sparked debate about the role of security in the yatra. While security is a top priority, many feel that the measures taken by the government are excessive and may not be necessary.
In conclusion, the decision to ban helicopter services in the Amarnath Yatra route is a complex issue that has sparked debate and controversy. While the government’s concerns about security are understandable, it’s clear that the decision has not been well-received by the people. Omar Abdullah’s statement highlights the absurdity of the situation, and it’s clear that a more thoughtful and inclusive approach is needed to ensure the success of this sacred pilgrimage.
