Katra ropeway venture: Sangarsh Samiti begins 72hr shutdown, 20 protesters detained – Occasions of India

JAMMU: Life got here to a standstill within the holy city of Katra in Jammu on Wednesday in response to a 72-hour shutdown name by Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti protesting the proposed ropeway venture from Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat. All enterprise institutions remained closed whereas visitors stored off roads. Cops intercepted the protesters from advancing in the direction of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board workplace, resulting in a minor scuffle between each side. Police detained 20 agitators, two of whom had been later launched whereas the opposite 18 remained below detention.
Led by Samiti leaders Bhupinder Singh and Sohan Chand, agitators raised slogans towards Shrine Board and the administration, marching by means of the city’s principal market. They alleged that the venture wouldn’t solely destroy the livelihoods of native enterprise homeowners but in addition disrupt the unique type of the Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra as written in historical scriptures, additional claiming that the Board was adopting a cussed method as an alternative of in search of an answer.
Singh alleged that J&Ok govt was derailing the problem and forcing individuals of Katra to take to the roads. “We demand the shelving of this venture to avoid wasting the livelihoods of a whole bunch of households. As an alternative of negotiating with us on the problem, as promised by the administration earlier, they (govt) are utilizing pressure to silence our voices,” he claimed.
“The 72-hour shutdown by pony homeowners, shopkeepers and different native stakeholders started Wednesday,” mentioned a Samiti spokesperson, including: “A delegation of protesters met the Reasi deputy commissioner, who sought extra time to seek the advice of increased authorities. It simply appeared an try to purchase time, so we have now determined to proceed with the strike.”
Former minister Jugal Kishore criticised the “use of pressure” towards the protesters. Accusing the administration of sideling a peaceable resolution by means of dialogue, Kishore mentioned, “As an alternative of holding talks, they’re aggravating the scenario.” BJP’s native unit in Reasi in addition to Congress supported the continued protest. BJP members led by former J&Ok minister Ajay Nanda joined the agitation.
The Shrine Board has deliberate to put in the ropeway to facilitate senior residents, kids and others who discover the 13km-trek difficult, entry the shrine. The proposed venture, which might be constructed at a price of Rs 250 crore, goals to attach Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat.