The statement of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti that the security arrangements being made for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra were “against the people of Kashmir” is part of a calculated bid to vitiate the communal situation in the state.
According to Mufti, the security build-up is causing inconvenience to majority Kashmiris. However, J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik defended the security, saying that providing fool-proof security was the responsibility of the government.
Talking to reporters, the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) chief said, “Amarnath Yatra has been taking place for years. But, the arrangements made this year are against the people of Kashmir. I request the Governor to intervene in this matter.”
Referring to traffic curbs imposed on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway route, Mufti said Yatra was a symbol of brotherhood. This year, the arrangements are done to trouble the locals. They cannot use the highway even in emergencies… they are forced to wait for Yatris to pass.”
The governor said he cannot take chance on the security of Yatris. “You know what happened on the highway on February 14 (Pulwama attack). The restrictions are necessary for the safety of the pilgrims,” he added.
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