Srinagar, 24 June (H.S.): Bhartiya Janta Party Rajya Sabha Member Parliament (MP) Ghulam Ali Khatana today praised Kashmiris for showing exemplary unity against terrorism in the wake of April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 25 tourists and a local guide.

Addressing a press conference in Sonamarg, where he met with local associations and officials, Khatana said the entire Kashmiri society-including youth, religious leaders, journalists, and content creators-had unanimously condemned the “inhumane and tragic” attack. “This incident has shaken the Valley and deeply impacted Kashmir’s tourism sector, both general and religious. I am visiting major tourist destinations including Sonamarg, to get first-hand feedback from the ground,” he said.

The MP emphasized restoring tourist confidence, ensuring safety, and preserving Kashmir’s fragile environment. “Our tourist destinations must be upgraded to global standards without harming the ecosystem. Protection of flora, fauna, and animals must be central to all development,” he added.

Khatana said the upcoming Amarnath Yatra is expected to boost employment and economic activity in the region. He also pointed to the central government’s focus on youth empowerment through schemes like Startup India and Stand-Up India, which he said are yielding positive results in Kashmir. “The Prime Minister and the Home Minister are deeply concerned about the welfare of Kashmiri youth, especially the unemployed. We have gathered feedback and will raise these concerns at appropriate forums,” he said.

He claimed the BJP had not engaged in political manipulation in Jammu and Kashmir. “We have held panchayat, assembly, and parliamentary elections without a single incident of rigging. Those elected are now serving the people,” he said. He urged the government to promptly address citizens’ daily issues. He also promised to raise the concerns of trekkers and others burdened by loans in relevant forums.

Khatana witnessed large participation from locals, tourism professionals, students, SHG members, and dignitaries. As a symbolic step to revive adventure tourism, he flagged off a trekkers’ group for the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek and launched sanitation drives along trek routes and pilgrimage zones to promote eco-friendly tourism. “This is a promise to revive tourism, empower locals, and restore Kashmir’s cultural and economic glory,” he said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar