Amarnath Yatra to commence from July 3
Hindu event gets massive security while Muslim religious gatherings face curbs
Srinagar: With preparations underway for the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, the Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir administration has intensified efforts for the conduct of the 57-day pilgrimage scheduled to commence on July 3, 2026.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Ansul Garg chaired a high-level review meeting in Pahalgam to assess readiness of departments and agencies involved.
Senior civil, police and military officials attended the meeting. Garg said registrations from across India have shown an encouraging trend and a substantial turnout of devotees is expected.
“Our objective is to ensure that every pilgrim undertakes the sacred journey in a safe, comfortable and well-managed environment,” he said. The meeting reviewed arrangements for accommodation, healthcare, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, traffic regulation, communication and disaster response along both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.
Security grid, crowd management and emergency response plans were also assessed. Deputy Commissioner Islamabad briefed the meeting on lodging facilities, sanitation and healthcare preparedness, including deployment of medical teams and emergency units given the high-altitude terrain.
However, observers pointed out the stark double standard in IIOJK, where a Hindu religious event like the Amarnath Yatra is provided with massive security, multi-layered coordination and state resources to ensure “hassle-free” conduct. In contrast, Muslims in the occupied territory and India face curbs, arrests, and surveillance during their own religious occasions, including Eid, Friday congregations, and Muharram processions, with authorities often citing “security” to justify restrictions. The disparity was further highlighted by repeated issues faced by Kashmiri Hajj pilgrims, including delays, curtailment of quotas, and administrative hurdles imposed by Indian authorities, while state machinery is mobilized to facilitate the Amarnath pilgrimage.
Authorities said all pending works are being expedited to ensure facilities are operational before the arrival of the first batch of pilgrims.
