Amarnath Yatra kick starts, security set

Union Home Minister expresses satisfaction over security & other arrangements for Yatra.

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh has expressed satisfaction over the security and other arrangements put in place by the State government and Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) for the smooth and peaceful conduct of annual Amarnath Yatra which began today. Shri Rajnath Singh visited the holy cave shrine early this morning to take stock of the security situation and also inspected arrangements for the smooth conduct of Yatra. He said he is satisfied with the feedback from the pilgrims on-the-spot who expressed happiness over befitting arrangements and facilitation mechanism for them. Shri Rajnath Singh paid obeisance at the Cave shrine and had darshan of Shiv Lingam.

The Union Home Minister reiterated his commitment to extend all support, assistance and encouragement to the Jammu & Kashmir Government to make the Amarnath Yatra safer, secure and eco-friendly. He complimented the State Government for taking excellent measures for the comfort of pilgrims.

Union Home Minister also met Governor N.N. Vohra at the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar and had extensive discussions about issues relating to external and internal security management. They also discussed matters relating to relief and rehabilitation of the flood victims and the arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.

Speaking to the media, Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated the Centre’s commitment to extend all support and assistance to the victims of the September 2014 flood. He said the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is keen to see J&K as fully rehabilitated and prosperous state.

The Union Home Minister said the Centre is ready to listen to all having grievances and issues, however, he unequivocally rejected violent and anti-national activities. Shri Rajnath Singh expressed the hope that improvement in overall security situation in Jammu and Kashmir will lead to a point where there will be no requirement of AFSPA.

Shri Rajnath Singh said India is committed to maintain cordial and friendly relations with Pakistan and other neighbouring countries while expressing the hope that Pakistan responds positively. He said as of now there is no proposal of any talks with the separatist Hurriyat Conference in Kashmir.

Before leaving for Delhi, Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Dargah Hazratbal Shrine and prayed for the peace and prosperity of the State