Urges support for victims, local businesses
SRINAGAR: A delegation from the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga, met with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday at Raj Bhawan to convey their profound condemnation of the recent gruesome terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 tourists and one local horseman. The delegation, which also included Junior Vice President Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Secretary General Faiz Bakshi, and Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, expressed that the heinous attack has deeply wounded the “soul of Kashmir,” leaving the community shattered.
During the meeting, Tenga emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is not the time to discuss business; it is about the devastating human losses that have affected all Kashmiris. We mourn every innocent life lost. These tragic deaths transcend economic considerations and strike at the very heart of society and shared humanity.”
The delegation, according to a statement issued here, conveyed their intention to visit the families of the Pahalgam victims to offer condolences and expressed their desire for the Lieutenant Governor’s support in facilitating this visit. The LG assured them of his support at the appropriate time.
Additionally, the delegation raised concerns over reports of harassment faced by Kashmiri students, businessmen, and residents living outside Jammu and Kashmir following the incident. They requested the Lieutenant Governor’s intervention with the central government and various state administrations to ensure that no Kashmiri experiences intimidation or threats outside the region. In response, the Lieutenant Governor informed the delegation that the issue of harassment of Kashmiris has already been brought to the attention of the Union Home Ministry, which has directed all states and union territories to prioritize the safety of Kashmiri students and businessmen.
Manoj Sinha expressed disappointment over the challenges posed by the Pahalgam incident, especially its impact on the recovering tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, the statement said. He condemned the attack as an attempt to disrupt peace and tranquility in the region, which had been revitalized through the diligent efforts of stakeholders and the government.
The delegation also brought to light the significant 80 percent reduction in the private Hajj quota across the country, highlighting the struggles faced by local private Hajj operators and the uncertainty surrounding intending pilgrims. KCC&I sought the Lieutenant Governor’s assistance in addressing these issues with the Ministry of Minority Affairs, to which the LG promised to engage with relevant authorities.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry reiterated its unwavering commitment to peace, progress, and development within Jammu and Kashmir, vowing to support all constructive initiatives aimed at building a more prosperous and harmonious future for the region. Tenga concluded the meeting by offering the Chamber’s full support in ensuring the success of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra.