Dy CM calls for unity in support of Katra ropeway protests

The Deputy Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Surinder Choudhary, on Sunday urged political parties to put aside their affiliations and unite in support of the ongoing protests in Katra against the proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project at the Vaishno Devi shrine.

Choudhary visited Katra, the base camp of the pilgrimage, and met with the protesters. He emphasised that it was time for leaders to set aside political differences and come together to support the local community in their demand for the scrapping of the Katra-Sanji Chhat ropeway project.

The Katra bandh entered fifth day on Sunday after being extended for 72 hours on Friday. The local shopkeepers, pony and palanquin owners are protesting against the Katra-Sanji Chhat ropeway project under the banner of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti.

The Samiti had initially called for the shutdown on December 25 and extended the strike to press for its demands, including the cancellation of the ropeway project and the release of detained protesters.

Choudhary, while interacting with the locals, said, “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?” He added, “This is not the time to showcase political affiliations but to unite and save Katra from destruction. I hope that former MLAs, ministers and other leaders will join hands with me to help the locals.”

The protests have also drawn attention to the involvement of local political leaders. The BJP MLA from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi assembly constituency, Baldev Raj Sharma, joined the protesters and demanded the release of those detained during the demonstrations. He further stated that he would go on a hunger strike if the detained protesters were not released. Currently, five individuals remain on a hunger strike, calling for the release of those detained by the police.