REASI/JAMMU, Dec 30: The shutdown in Katra opposing the proposed Vaishno Devi ropeway project has reached its sixth day as youth engage in a hunger strike, calling for the release of several individuals detained by police during the protests.
The Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti initiated the shutdown on Wednesday, declaring that all activities would cease during the bandh in Katra, which serves as the base camp for Mata Vaishno Devi.
Shivani Jamwal, spouse of detained Samiti leader Bhupinder Singh, joined the demonstrators and threatened to self-immolate if her husband and others are not released immediately, stressing that their health is declining in police custody.
For the sixth consecutive day, all shops, restaurants, and businesses remained closed, with traffic absent from the streets, following the Samiti’s call for protest.
This bandh has severely disrupted daily life in one of the country’s busiest towns, where thousands of pilgrims arrive daily to visit the cave shrine. The number of devotees has noticeably decreased due to the ongoing shutdown.
The Samiti spokesperson stated, “The bandh will persist until the government abandons the ropeway project. This is a fight for survival and dignity, ensuring the pilgrimage continues via Mata’s traditional route.”
He accused the government of intentionally exacerbating the situation by refusing to release detainees or engage in discussions with the Samiti.
Five young activists have been on a hunger strike since Wednesday night, demanding the release of 18 members of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, who were taken into custody during a protest march against the ropeway project in Katra.
Many protesters, including two Samiti leaders—Bhupinder Singh and Sohan Chand—were among those detained by law enforcement during the protest on Wednesday.
Shivani Jamwal stated, “I will self-immolate if my husband and others are not released by this evening.”
She expressed concern over the deteriorating health of the detainees, noting, “They have lost weight and are in very poor health.”
Criticizing political parties for exploiting the situation, she said, “They come here to politicize the issue but have failed to secure the release of our loved ones.”
Jamwal appealed to the Lieutenant Governor and local authorities to intervene, emphasizing that some detainees have serious health conditions that necessitate their immediate release.
Last month, the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board announced plans for the installation of a ropeway aimed at easing access to the temple for senior citizens, children, and others who find the 13-km trek to the cave shrine challenging.
The proposed ₹250-crore ropeway project will connect Tarakote Marg to Sanji Chhat, leading up to the cave shrine located in Reasi district.
