Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 1: On the eve of commencement of Shri Buddha Amarnath Yatra from Jammu, the administration discussed necessary arrangements with Shri Buddha Amarnath Yatri Nayas, here today.
Principal Secretary to Governor and CEO of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board Naveen Choudhary, Director Tourism Jammu Soujanya Sharma, IGP Jammu Rajesh Kumar and other officers took part in the meeting-cum interaction that took place at Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas.
Representative of Hindu organizations, including national spokesperson of Bajrang Dal Parkash Sharma, head of the Buddha Amarnath Nayas Surinder Aggarwal, VHP leader Rajesh Pandey and VHP State president Rama Kant Dubey, put forth some suggestions before the administration for smooth conduct of the yatra.
Speaking on the occasion, Naveen Choudhary extended all possible support to the Yatri Nayas for the pilgrimage. “Following Uttarakhand tragedy, a fear psychosis had gripped the pilgrims all over the country but the Government made ensure that no unfortunate incident could take place here,” he explained.
However, he expressed inability of Shri Amanrath Shrine Board to take control of the management of Buddha Amarnath Yatra since a proper legislation was needed for the same.
Referring to media reports over melting of holy Icelingam at Amarnath cave, Mr Choudhary opined that such matters should not be reported in such a casual way since sentiments of millions of people are attached to the sacred pilgrimage.
In a lighter vein, Mr Choudhary dubbed Dr Rama Kant Dubey as Angry Old Man who used to criticize the administration over the yatra arrangements. “However, his criticism also helps us to further improve the arrangements,” he added.
Director Tourism Soujanya Sharma offered to permanently hand over the TRC at Poonch Mandi to Buddha Amarnath Yatri Nayas. “The Tourism Department is ready to permanently hand over this TRC for the pilgrimage if Yatri Nayas agrees for its renovation, he added.
On the occasion, Naveen Choudhary announced token contribution of Rs one lakh from the Governor and Rs 51 thousand from Jammu Tour and Travel Agents Association towards the Yatri Nayas.
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