Srinagar, June 30: People’s Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Tuesday said that the people of Kashmir are eagerly waiting to welcome the pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, reaffirming the Valley’s age-old tradition of hospitality, communal harmony, and mutual respect.
In a statement issued here, Hakeem Yaseen said Jammu and Kashmir has always been known across the country and the world for its warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and the spirit of coexistence among people of different faiths. He said Kashmir has a glorious legacy of respecting every religion and extending wholehearted support to all visitors, especially pilgrims visiting the Valley for spiritual purposes.
He said the Amarnath Yatra is deeply rooted in the social and cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir and is not something new for the people of Kashmir. For decades, local residents have played an important role in facilitating the pilgrimage by offering services, assistance, and support to the Yatris.
“The Amarnath Yatra has been taking place for decades, and the people of Kashmir have always welcomed the pilgrims with open hearts. Even during difficult and challenging times, the Yatris were never abandoned and continued to receive warmth, cooperation, and support from locals,” he said.
Hakeem Yaseen said that the arrival of Yatris is awaited with great enthusiasm by people across Kashmir, particularly those associated with tourism, trade, transport, and service sectors, who consider it both a spiritual and humanitarian responsibility to assist the pilgrims.
While appreciating the efforts of the administration under the leadership of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for improving infrastructure, strengthening security arrangements, and enhancing facilities for the pilgrims, he said the local population is equally committed to ensuring the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
He said all necessary arrangements are being put in place to facilitate the pilgrimage and ensure the safety and comfort of the devotees. He emphasized that cooperation between the administration and the people remains crucial for the successful completion of the Yatra.
“The people of Kashmir are eagerly waiting for the Yatris. We are fully ready to serve them whenever there is a need. We stand firmly with the LG administration and all concerned agencies in ensuring a safe, peaceful, and successful Amarnath Yatra,” he added.
Hakeem Yaseen further said that the Amarnath Yatra symbolizes faith, devotion, and unity, and serves as a strong reminder of Kashmir’s inclusive ethos and centuries-old tradition of brotherhood. He expressed hope that this year’s Yatra will pass peacefully and further strengthen the bonds of love, unity, and mutual respect among people from different parts of the country.
