SRINAGAR: Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Choudhary, on Sunday appealed to political parties to set aside their differences and unite in solidarity with the ongoing protests in Katra against the proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project at the Vaishno Devi shrine. The contentious project has stirred significant unrest among the local community, who see it as a threat to their livelihoods and cultural heritage.
Choudhary visited Katra, the base camp of the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, where he interacted with the protesters and expressed his support for their demands. Addressing the gathering, he urged leaders from all political backgrounds to prioritise the interests of the people over party lines. “The Vaishno Devi goddess is watching what is happening to the people who serve her. Do you think she will remain quiet and see the destruction of her devotees?” Choudhary remarked, emphasising the need for unity to safeguard the region’s traditions and economy.
The protests, spearheaded by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti, entered their fifth day on Sunday, with the Katra bandh extended for an additional 72 hours on Friday. Local shopkeepers, pony operators, and palanquin owners are at the forefront of the agitation, demanding the cancellation of the Katra-Sanji Chhat ropeway project and the release of detained demonstrators. The Samiti originally called for a shutdown on December 25 and has since intensified its efforts, including a hunger strike by five individuals.
Prominent political figures have joined the movement, further amplifying its visibility. Baldev Raj Sharma, BJP MLA from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi assembly constituency, lent his support to the protests and issued a stern warning that he would begin a hunger strike if the detained protesters were not released promptly. Sharma’s involvement reflects the growing concern among local leaders over the police’s handling of the demonstrations and the potential fallout of ignoring the community’s grievances.
The Deputy Chief Minister’s call for unity comes at a critical juncture as the protests highlight a broader debate over development and its impact on traditional livelihoods. Choudhary expressed hope that former legislators, ministers, and other leaders would join forces to advocate for the protesters’ cause, stressing the importance of preserving the spiritual and economic sanctity of Katra, a town deeply intertwined with the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage.
