Peoples Democratic Party president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday urged the people of Kashmir to extend warmth and hospitality to pilgrims undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra, saying the pilgrimage presents an opportunity to strengthen bonds between Kashmir and the rest of the country.
During her visit to Sonamarg in Ganderbal district, Mehbooba met local stakeholders and listened to their concerns regarding challenges faced during the Yatra period.
She reiterated the message she had earlier delivered in Pahalgam, emphasizing that ensuring the safety and smooth conduct of the pilgrimage is not solely the responsibility of security agencies.
“Safeguarding the Yatra is not merely the responsibility of security agencies but a collective duty of the people of Kashmir,” she said.
The PDP chief urged all stakeholders to ensure that every pilgrim feels welcomed, respected and protected during their stay in Kashmir.
“We must ensure that every devotee returns home as an ambassador of Kashmir’s hospitality, warmth and humanity,” she said.
Describing the Yatra as a bridge between people from different regions of the country, Mehbooba said, “The Yatra is an opportunity for us to connect with people from across India. Our hospitality, kindness and compassion should be our answer to prejudice and mistrust.”
She said the annual pilgrimage offers Kashmiris a chance to showcase the values of coexistence and communal harmony that have long defined the region.
“Let every devotee who visits Kashmir leave with a deeper understanding of our values, our faith, and our people. This is our chance to show the true spirit of Islam and Kashmir,” she added.
The Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to commence on July 3 through the twin routes of Pahalgam and Baltal amid extensive preparations by the administration and security agencies.
