Katra, 15 January (H.S.): Katra witnessed a massive protest as members of the Sangarsh Samiti staged a strong demonstration against the Mata Vaishnio Devi Ropeway Project.

The demonstrators took out a protest march from Fawwara Chowk, Katra and proceeded towards the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board head office, where they sat on dharna. They were raising slogans against the Shrine Board.

The protesters alleged that while discussions were underway with the High-Powered Committee regarding the ropeway issue, the Shrine Board carried out ropeway-related work secretly. They accused the Shrine Board of taking decisions that have already diluted the essence and sanctity of the holy Yatra.

The Sangarsh Samiti members asserted that the Yatra should be allowed only through the traditional route, warning that any deviation would hamper the religious and spiritual importance of the pilgrimage. They demanded immediate suspension of the ropeway work until a consensus is reached through proper dialogue.

Later, police officials reached the spot and held talks with the protesters, assuring them that their concerns would be conveyed to the higher authorities.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar