Union Minister Piyush Goyal Assures Smooth Conduct of Amarnath Yatra Despite Terror Threats
Union Minister Piyush Goyal Assures Smooth Conduct of Amarnath Yatra Despite Terror Threats
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Friday assured that the Amarnath Yatra, set to begin on July 3, will proceed without disruption, despite rising security concerns following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Goyal expressed strong faith in the resilience of Kashmir and its people, emphasizing that violence would not hinder the region’s progress.
"Amarnath Yatra will be conducted successfully": Piyush Goyal in wake of Pahalgam terror attack
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“The people of India are capable and determined enough to ensure that tourism resumes soon. The Amarnath Yatra will be held successfully, and no one can stop Kashmir from moving forward on its path of development,” Goyal said.
The deadly attack earlier this week at Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam claimed the lives of 25 Indian tourists and one Nepalese citizen and injured several others, marking one of the most severe attacks since the 2019 Pulwama tragedy.
The incident has sparked anxiety among thousands of pilgrims planning the sacred journey to the Amarnath cave shrine. Some have already canceled their trips, adding uncertainty to this year’s pilgrimage season.
Religious tourism plays a crucial role in Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, particularly during the summer when the shrine attracts massive crowds. However, following the attack, many prospective pilgrims are adopting a wait-and-watch approach before finalizing their plans.
Despite the tense situation, preparations for the pilgrimage are in full swing. The yatra will commence from both the Pahalgam route in Anantnag and the Baltal route in Ganderbal district, concluding on August 9, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan. Registrations have been open since April 15 at 533 branches of Punjab National Bank, State Bank of India, Jammu & Kashmir Bank, and Yes Bank.
Meanwhile, Goyal also confirmed that the government has revoked visas for Pakistani nationals and has ordered them to leave India.
Strongly condemning the attack, the minister reiterated that India would not compromise with terrorism in any form and ruled out the possibility of resuming trade ties with Pakistan.
Following the attack, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited Srinagar on Friday to review the security situation. Additionally, a high-level all-party meeting was held on Thursday to deliberate on a coordinated response to the tragic incident.
