SRINAGAR: Former Chief Minister and PDP President Mehbooba Mufti today addressed a gathering of local businessmen, taxi drivers, hoteliers, ponywalas, and civil society members in Pahalgam, stressing the collective responsibility of every Kashmiri in ensuring a peaceful and secure Amarnath Yatra. She reiterated the region’s tradition of Hindu-Muslim unity and called for the immediate reopening of key tourist spots in Pahalgam.
Mehbooba Mufti highlighted the historical role of Pahalgam residents in fostering communal harmony, stating, “The people of Pahalgam have kept Hindu-Muslim unity alive in the country. For centuries, the people of Kashmir and Pahalgam have welcomed Amarnath Yatris with open hearts, and this legacy will continue with the same spirit and sincerity.” She said the security of Amarnath Yatris is a shared responsibility, adding, “No matter how many security forces are deployed, the actual responsibility for a peaceful Amarnath Yatra lies with every inhabitant of Pahalgam.”
In her address, Mufti urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Lieutenant Governor to take immediate steps to reopen popular tourist destinations such as Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Betab Valley, and other parks in Pahalgam. She questioned the delay, saying, “I want to ask Omar Sahab, no one stops you from giving jobs to retired people or transferring officers as you wish. If you can exercise your authority freely in these matters, why can’t you ensure these parks are opened to the public?”
Expressing concern over inaction, she added, “We, in the opposition, can only raise our voice. But if you, despite being in government, only make statements, what’s the difference between you and us?” Her remarks reflect the growing concerns of local stakeholders who depend on tourism for their livelihood.
The PDP President called for unity and collective effort to ensure the success of the Amarnath Yatra and urged the administration to prioritise reopening tourist spots to support the local economy and uphold Pahalgam’s legacy of hospitality.
