Jammu Tawi, December 28: The Yuva Rajput Sabha (YRS) held a press conference today at the Press Club Jammu, expressing strong support for the residents of Katra who are protesting against the proposed installation of a ropeway from Katra to Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan. The Sabha condemned the arrest of peaceful protesters who are advocating for their legitimate demands.
Raghubir Singh, Chairman of YRS, criticized the actions of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) and the administration for detaining the protesters. He stated, “The people of Katra, who have been peacefully fighting for their rights, were unjustly detained. These individuals are advocating for their livelihoods and religious sentiments. The Shrine Board is harassing them instead of honoring those who contributed large portions of land for the sacred shrine.”
Singh issued an ultimatum to the government, demanding the immediate release of all detained protesters.
Vikram Singh Vicky, President of YRS, criticized the Shrine Board for prioritizing commercial ventures over the welfare of pilgrims and locals. He remarked, “Since its establishment in 1986, the Shrine Board has favored commercial projects over the welfare of the pilgrims. Services like the helicopter and battery car, originally meant for the elderly and physically challenged, are now being exploited by affluent individuals while those in real need suffer.”
Vicky also extended YRS’s full support to the Mata Vaishno Devi Ji Sangharsh Samiti, the committee leading the agitation, and urged the LG administration to release the 18 detained individuals immediately. He emphasized, “If our demands are not addressed within 24 hours, YRS will mobilize the people of Jammu and march to Katra in solidarity with the protesters.”
Former YRS President Rajan Singh Happy highlighted the neglect of Katra’s youth, who have been fasting for three days without any support from local leaders or elected representatives. He appealed to political and social leaders to rise in support of the Dogra community and the residents of Katra.
Other prominent leaders present at the press conference included Rajinder Singh (Chief Patron, YRS), Pushvinder Singh, Mohinder Singh, Mesha Singh, Ranjeet Singh, Balbir Singh Kaku, Rajesh Singh Billu, and other members of the state body.
