Civil Society, Religious Leaders, Traders Pledge Support for Smooth Pilgrimage
FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, June 28: In a significant outreach ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha convened a high-level interaction with members of civil society organisations, religious leaders, elected public representatives, and the business community to review preparations and seek their cooperation for the smooth and peaceful conduct of the holy pilgrimage.
The meeting, held in Srinagar, was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Special DG (Coordination) S.J.M. Gillani, Principal Secretary to LG and CEO of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Bidhuri, senior police officials, administrative secretaries, and other civil and security stakeholders.
Welcoming the inputs and suggestions from participants, LG Sinha emphasized that “Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is not just a religious event—it is a vibrant celebration of spirituality, unity, and the centuries-old cultural ethos of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Calling it a “Peoples’ Yatra,” the Lieutenant Governor said every citizen is a key stakeholder in the holy pilgrimage, which carries immense spiritual, cultural, and socio-economic importance.
“I appeal to civil society, public representatives, religious leaders, and the trade and business fraternity to make this yatra a symbol of harmony and togetherness. Let us work collectively to ensure a peaceful, safe, and spiritually uplifting experience for the devotees,” LG Sinha urged.
Highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s legacy of communal harmony and inclusiveness, the LG said the yatra reinforces the spirit of togetherness by welcoming devotees from all parts of the country. “The peaceful conduct of this sacred journey will send a strong message of unity from the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the world,” he said.
LG Sinha appreciated the unwavering efforts of the civil society, religious leaders, and the business community in preserving and promoting the region’s inclusive spiritual tradition. He said their cooperation is vital for the success of the annual pilgrimage.
He also outlined major initiatives taken by the Shrine Board, civil administration, security agencies, and J&K Police to improve pilgrim-centric infrastructure and ensure safety during the yatra. Special emphasis was laid on travelling in designated convoys for enhanced security.
“I have personally reviewed the ground situation and inspected facilities developed along the yatra tracks. With the increasing number of registrations this year, we are expecting a record footfall of devotees,” the LG noted.
The LG reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir has always embraced every faith and religious tradition with dignity and acceptance. He appealed to all stakeholders to carry forward this legacy by making this year’s yatra a seamless and joyful spiritual journey.
The meeting witnessed active participation from Waqf Board members, DDC Chairpersons, MLAs, religious and community leaders, as well as representatives from various trade and business bodies. Several delegates expressed their views and pledged wholehearted support for the smooth and successful conduct of the yatra.
Responding to the concerns and suggestions raised, the Lieutenant Governor assured the gathering that appropriate measures will be taken to address issues and fulfill public expectations.
