A policeman sustained injuries on Monday as protests against the ₹250 crore Vaishno Devi ropeway project escalated into violence in Jammu & Kashmir’s Reasi district. The demonstration, involving shopkeepers, pony owners, and palanquin operators, turned chaotic when protesters clashed with police and resorted to stone pelting, according to reports from the news agency PTI.
The unrest began after the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board announced its plan to proceed with the ropeway project connecting Tarakote Marg and Sanji Chhat along the 12-kilometer trek route to the shrine. The project, estimated to be completed in two years, has sparked fears among local stakeholders about significant job losses and the disruption of their livelihoods.
Protesters Demand Project Scrapping or Compensation
Shopkeepers and operators of ponies and palanquins have been striking against the project since November 22, demanding either the cancellation of the ropeway or sufficient compensation to offset their losses.
Tensions flared when a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) vehicle attempted to pass through the protest area in Katra town, a base camp for Vaishno Devi pilgrims. Protesters reportedly hit the vehicle, breaking its windshield, and clashes intensified as security forces intervened. Demonstrators threw bricks, chased, and even manhandled police personnel during the confrontation.
Chanting slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” hundreds of protesters marched through Katra town and staged a sit-in, amplifying their demands for justice.
Officials Respond to Protesters
After an hour-long discussion with officials, the strike was suspended. Reasi Deputy Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan assured protesters that their grievances would be addressed through discussions with all stakeholders, including the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB).
“I have held talks with Bhupinder [Singh, protest leader]. We are aware of your demands and concerns. Bhupinder has given time till December 15 for discussions with all stakeholders to resolve the issues,” Mahajan said while addressing the protesters.
Senior Superintendent of Police (Reasi) Paramvir Singh acknowledged the challenges in maintaining law and order but affirmed ongoing efforts to peacefully resolve the matter.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who chairs the SMVDSB, stated that the “genuine” concerns of the protesters would be addressed. Sinha confirmed that a committee led by the divisional commissioner had been formed to engage stakeholders and build consensus on the project.
The ropeway project, aimed at improving accessibility to the Vaishno Devi shrine, has become a flashpoint for tensions in the region, with the livelihoods of many local workers at stake.
Sources By Agencies