Pratiksha Ghosh
Pahalgam, May 28:In a significant political statement against terrorism, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a special cabinet session in Pahalgam , weeks amid the town witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent memory.
Omar told reporters following the meeting that “This is more than governance. It’s a message,”and “We are here to affirm that Jammu and Kashmir will not be cowed by acts of terror. Development and peace are our response.”
The meeting, held at the Pahalgam Club, was the first cabinet session that was conducted outside the capitals of Srinagar and Jammu. It was also intended to thank the people of Pahalgam for their resilience amid the April 22 ,terror attack that took 26 lives.
Omar also acknowledged the symbolic nature of the gathering but said it also addressed tourism concerns.
The chief minister met with a group of over 60 tour operators from Maharashtra, who are visiting key destinations in the Valley. He praised their confidence and described tourism as a “conflict-neutral” industry that should be protected from political interference.
Mr Omar further stated that “We’ve initiated a security audit of all tourist destinations,”and “Of the 48 currently closed locations, many may be reopened soon with appropriate measures.”
Addressing the financial hardships faced by tourism stakeholders, he stressed that the discussions with the Union Government were underway to assist those who have taken loans to invest in the sector. From homestays to transport operators, many face uncertainty due to the drop in tourist footfall.
He also revealed plans to participate in major travel fairs in Kolkata and Ahmedabad, aiming to project J&K as a safe and welcoming destination. “We want the world to know that Kashmir is open for tourism again,” he said.
Omar confirmed that he had discussed the issue directly with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the recent NITI Aayog meeting. While details remain confidential, the CM also hinted at upcoming initiatives from the Centre aimed at reviving tourism in the Valley.
