Warmth of hospitality during Amarnath yatra will defeat politics of hate: Mehbooba Mufti

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti appeals to local residents in Pahalgam on Monday (June 15, 2026) to give a warm welcome to Amarnath Yatra pilgrims. | Photo credit: ANI

Former J&K Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday (June 15, 2026) urged locals to educate Amarnath pilgrims and tourists about the importance of dialogue on Kashmir and fight the current politics of hate with warm hospitality.

Calling for a Mahatma Gandhi-like satyagraha, Ms Mufti said, “Kashmir remains a shadowy issue due to the fear of guns, batons and frequent raids (by security agencies). But instead of stones and guns, satyagraha is needed. We must treat the pilgrims as family members and ensure that they become ambassadors.”

Ms. Mufti made the announcement while addressing the locals of South Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which will host the yatra from July 3 this year.

Referring to the alleged hate crimes against Kashmiri students and scarf sellers in mainland India, Ms Mufti said: “The Amarnath Yatra is our opportunity to defeat the hatred and mistrust that is spreading about Kashmir across India. Protecting the Yatra is not just the responsibility of the security agencies, it is our collective duty.

She urged for a peaceful people’s initiative to ensure that every Yatri feels welcome, respected and protected. “If every Yatri leaves with a positive experience, it will bring the true story of Kashmir to every corner of India, the story of warmth, humanity, coexistence and the enduring spirit of our people,” Ms. Mufti said.

Ms Mufti said she had written an open letter to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah “to call an all-party meeting and convince the Prime Minister and the Home Minister to engage in dialogue with the political parties of J&K”.

“Omar Sahib rejected the idea. He did not even reply to my letter. I want the people to take this initiative. Even if the Indian government is not talking to them, they should talk to the people of the country,” Ms Mufti said.

Published – 16 Jun 2026 03:58 IST