Pahalgam, Jun 15 (KNO): Former Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said the annual Amarnath Yatra should be seen as an opportunity for the people of Kashmir to counter hate, strengthen bonds with the rest of India and showcase the Valley’s centuries-old traditions of hospitality and communal harmony.
Speaking to reporters here, Mufti, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said every pilgrim visiting Kashmir for the Amarnath Yatra is not only a guest but also an ambassador who carries back stories about the people, culture and traditions of the Valley to different parts of the country.
She stressed that ensuring the smooth and peaceful conduct of the pilgrimage is not solely the responsibility of security agencies and the administration but a collective duty of the people of Kashmir as well.
“Every yatri who comes here should return with memories of warmth, compassion and coexistence. The people of Kashmir have always welcomed guests with open hearts, and it is important that this tradition continues,” she said.
Mufti said that genuine human interaction and hospitality remain the most effective response to misinformation, prejudice and negative narratives about Kashmir and its people. "Personal experiences of pilgrims often help break stereotypes and foster greater understanding between communities," she said.
The PDP chief urged residents across the Valley to extend every possible support to pilgrims and ensure that they feel safe, respected and welcomed during their stay.
Referring to the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Mehbooba said she had written to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, urging him to lead an all-party delegation to meet the Union Government and raise issues concerning the people of Jammu and Kashmir, on the lines of the engagement process undertaken in Ladakh.
“I had requested the Chief Minister to initiate an all-party effort and take the concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the Centre. However, as of now, I have not received any response to my letter,” she said.
Despite this, Mufti said that dialogue and outreach should not remain confined to political leaders alone. She called upon the people of Jammu and Kashmir to take the initiative at their own level and engage with people across India.
Drawing a parallel with the mass outreach movements led by Mahatma Gandhi, she said meaningful change often begins with ordinary citizens connecting with one another.
“People themselves must reach out, talk to fellow citizens across the country and build understanding. Just as Gandhi started the Satyagraha movement through public participation, efforts to bridge distances and remove misunderstandings should also come from the people,” she said.
The former CM reiterated that greater interaction, dialogue and people-to-people contact were essential for strengthening trust and promoting lasting peace, adding that Kashmir’s culture of hospitality and inclusiveness can play a significant role in fostering national unity and mutual respect—(KNO)