Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary expressed hope that the Amarnath yatris would be greeted in a full-fledged state next time, rather than a Union Territory. He made these remarks on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, while welcoming the first batch of pilgrims in Banihal.
Choudhary, accompanied by NC MLA Sajad Shaheen and District Development Council Chairperson Ramban Shamshad Shan, received the initial group of 5,892 yatris. This batch had been flagged off earlier in the day by Lt Governor Manoj Sinha from the yatra base camp in Jammu’s Bhagwati Nagar. The 38-day pilgrimage to the 3,880-meter high shrine is set to begin on July 3.
“Today, we are welcoming them to a Union Territory. But we pray to Bhole Shankar (Lord Shiva) to be kind and listen to our collective yearning so that the next time these pilgrims come, we welcome them not in a UT, but in a full-fledged state,” the Deputy Chief Minister stated to reporters.
Choudhary also mentioned a slight delay in the pilgrims’ departure due to a special puja organized by the Lt Governor for their safety. He highlighted the “beauty of Jammu and Kashmir, its brotherhood and hospitality,” noting that Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs had gathered in Banihal to welcome the pilgrims.
Regarding the arrangements, the minister assured that security forces and the civil administration are working to ensure a smooth yatra. While the Lt Governor is overseeing security, the Jammu and Kashmir government is managing other aspects like water and electricity. Choudhary affirmed that the yatra would be “successful and peaceful,” emphasizing the bravery of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and their unwavering support for the country. He conveyed a message that Jammu and Kashmir is “as beautiful and safe as any other region in the country” and that visitors should “feel at home.”
When asked about restrictions on local movement during pilgrim convoys, the Deputy Chief Minister committed to discussing the issue with the Chief Minister to find a solution, acknowledging the difficulties faced by residents, including the sick and students.
