Protecting Amarnath yatris collective duty of Kashmiris, says Mehbooba

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti (PTI photo)

SRINAGAR: With the 57-day Amarnath Yatra set to begin on July 3, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti Monday said protecting the pilgrims was not just the responsibility of the security forces, but a collective duty of the people of Kashmir.“Every Amarnath pilgrim who visits us is a guest of Kashmir. They carry the story of our land, our people and our values to every corner of India. It is our responsibility to ensure they leave with memories of our love, warmth and hospitality,” Mehbooba said, addressing her party workers in Pahalgam.“Yatris are ambassadors who carry their experience of Kashmir back to their homes and communities. Every interaction is an opportunity to showcase Kashmir’s traditions of hospitality, compassion and coexistence.

The misinformation and prejudice directed against Kashmir and Muslims can best be challenged through genuine human outreach and a heartfelt welcome to every pilgrim,” she added.DGP Nalin Prabhat chaired a high-level review meeting on yatra preparedness in Srinagar on Sunday. Authorities are increasingly turning to technology for the yatra’s safety, with a network of CCTV cameras and RFID-based tracking systems part of the security arrangements, among other measures.