In the latest development surrounding the Vaishno Devi ropeway row, two representatives of labourers and shopkeepers were detained on Wednesday during fresh protests at the Katra base camp in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district.
The protests were in opposition to a proposed ropeway project along the trek to the Vaishno Devi shrine, which has sparked significant unrest among local stakeholders.
Vaishno Devi ropeway protest escalates
The detained individuals, identified as Bhupinder Singh and Sohan Chand, were leading a rally against the ropeway project when the demonstration turned confrontational.
Officials reported that police intervened to stop the protesters from advancing, which led to clashes. Singh and Chand were taken away in a police vehicle, and the protesters were dispersed from the scene.
FIRs registered after Monday’s clash
The protests follow Monday’s violent clashes in Katra that left a policeman injured. An FIR was registered on Tuesday, implicating protest leaders, including Bhupinder Singh Jamwal (alias Pinku Miya), Sohan Chand, and others, for inciting violence.
According to the FIR, demonstrators blocked roads at Fountain Chowk, disrupting vehicular movement and hindering the passage of pilgrims (yatris) en route to the shrine.
Allegations of violence
Police alleged that protesters assaulted on-duty personnel with fists, blows, and weapons, including bricks and stones, during Monday’s unrest. They also reportedly tore police uniforms and damaged vehicles.
The station house officer (SHO) and other officials injured in the clashes were treated at a community health center in Katra. The FIR further noted that the actions of the protestors endangered the lives of pilgrims and the general public.
Stakeholders express concerns
Shopkeepers, pony operators, and palanquin providers have voiced strong opposition to the ropeway project, citing concerns over its potential impact on their livelihoods.
The strike was temporarily called off after the district administration assured the protestors of holding discussions with various stakeholders, including officials from the Shrine Board, to address their grievances.
Authorities respond
Despite the unrest, the Udhampur DIG (Reasi Range) Rayees Bhat clarified that the detained individuals were not formally arrested. Meanwhile, the Shrine Board has maintained its stance on the project, emphasising the need for development while pledging to consider the concerns raised by the local community.
Vaishno Devi latest news: Balancing development and livelihoods
The Vaishno Devi ropeway row highlights the tension between development projects and local livelihoods. While authorities reiterate their commitment to advancing infrastructure for the benefit of pilgrims, affected stakeholders continue to protest, demanding safeguards for their economic interests.
The situation remains dynamic as further talks are anticipated in the coming days.
Also Read: Clashes in J&K’s Katra during anti-ropeway agitation
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