JAMMU, 25 Nov. 24 –A peaceful protest by shopkeepers and laborers against a proposed ropeway project near the
Vaishno Devi shrine turned violent on Monday, injuring over a dozen people, including a police officer, in Katra.
Thousands of locals, including shopkeepers, pony operators, laborers, and porters, had gathered at Katra's main chowk, continuing a demonstration that began three days earlier against the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board's decision to proceed with the Rs 250-crore ropeway project.
The proposed ropeway, which would connect Tarakote Marg and Sanji Chhat along the 12-kilometer pilgrimage route, is expected to be completed within two years. Protesters fear it will jeopardize their livelihoods.
Amid chants of "Bharat Mata ki Jai," protesters organized a march and sit-in at the town, extending their initial 72-hour strike by 24 hours late Sunday night.
Tensions flared when a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) vehicle attempted to navigate through the protest site, triggering clashes.
Police said that some protesters damaged the vehicle's windshield, provoking a lathi charge to restore order. Protesters, however, accused the police of initiating unprovoked force.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Reasi) Paramvir Singh acknowledged the challenges in managing the situation, stating, “We are in discussions with the protesters to find a resolution.”
The protesters demanded either the cancellation of the ropeway project or compensation for those likely to be affected.
“The project threatens the livelihood of hundreds, including shopkeepers, pony operators, and palanquin carriers,” said Bhupinder Singh, a protest leader.
Deputy Commissioner Reasi, Vishesh Paul Mahajan, and Singh jointly announced the temporary suspension of the strike on Monday evening.
Addressing the protesters, Mahajan assured them their concerns would be prioritized. “We will immediately take up the matter with the shrine board. A comprehensive discussion on compensation and other demands will occur in the next few days,” Mahajan said.
Singh confirmed the strike's suspension until December 15, giving the government time to address their demands. “We hope the administration fulfills its commitments. If not, we will resume our protest,” he warned.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha assured that the legitimate concerns of the protesters would be addressed. “We will ensure the voices of the people are heard,” Sinha stated.
(With KNO Inputs)