Sensitive issues like the one which has affected Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra these days viz. the ropeway agitation, are required to be handled with great care as allowing delay could escalate the problem thus leading to deterioration of the situation. Already much time has been wasted and things are going out of hands as arrests of some of the protestors have brewed tension in the region and the dillydallying policy could prove deleterious because there are entities which might instigate people against the government for satiating their vested interests without thinking about the damage which the escalation of situation can bring.
It is recommended that authorities should stop the entities having vested interests from manipulating public sentiment for their own purposes as it could lead to widespread unrest or instability. The authorities should act swiftly but thoughtfully because engaging with the stakeholders, seeking a dialogue, and attempting to resolve the issue through peaceful means before it escalates into a larger crisis is the need of the hour. Ignoring the potential repercussions of a delayed response can indeed prove deleterious, not only to the region’s peace but also to the long-term credibility of the government in handling sensitive issues.
It is unfortunate that reportedly the ongoing protest against the proposed ropeway project in Katra town has been extended for two more days as the Sangharsh Samiti leaders did not receive any written assurance from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board or the Reasi administration to shelve the project.
It is pertinent to mention that the protest, called on December 25, was initially extended for 72 hours on Friday night. Although the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has claimed that his administration has been open to talks with all stakeholders on the Katra Ropeway project and a high-level committee is already in place for the purpose. But on ground, things seem to be going contrary to what is being broadcast. As it looks that the people who are going to be affected are getting alienated and losing confidence in the authorities. Especially after the arrests of some of the protestors and the cold response of the concerned quarters. Which apparently seem to be adamant on the issue despite claiming otherwise.
Timely intervention is critical to restore public confidence, maintain regional harmony, and uphold the sanctity of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra.
