Congress Slams 'Repressive Measures' Over Katra Protests

The Congress criticizes authorities for repressive actions against Katra protests over the Vaishno Devi ropeway project. They demand the lieutenant governor's intervention for detained leaders' release. Emphasizing dialogue, Congress seeks to resolve the crisis amicably, urging consideration for local stakeholders and affected groups.

The Congress has raised concerns over the government's aggressive tactics in handling protests at Katra, the base camp of Mata Vaishno Devi. Criticizing these 'repressive measures,' the party has called for immediate action from the lieutenant governor to release detained protest leaders. They stress the importance of creating a favorable environment for dialogue as a sincere step toward resolution.

The agitation in Katra, which centers on the controversial Vaishno Devi ropeway project, has drawn strong criticism from the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) President, Tariq Hameed Karra. He expressed disappointment over the administrative approach, accusing them of further disrupting the atmosphere for dialogue with their resistance and alleged ill-treatment of protest representatives.

Karra highlighted that Congress intervened from the onset, sending delegations to support the protesters. He questioned the alleged selective permission for political visits and urged the lieutenant governor to ensure fair treatment for Congress leaders and stakeholders. He voiced concerns about the local economy's impact, specifically on pony-walas, vendors, and traders, urging a considerate approach.

(With inputs from agencies.)