After the April 22 Pahalgam tragedy, Abdullah meets with civil and police officials to assure the public and restore confidence in Kashmir’s tourism sector. Plans include local tourism initiatives and school picnics.
By Pravin Kumar
Jammy, May 28: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday underscored the division of responsibilities in the Union Territory, stating that while he can promote tourism, develop infrastructure, and ensure a positive experience for visitors, the security of tourists lies with the Lieutenant Governor (LG).
“I can promote tourism, build infrastructure, and ensure tourists have a good experience, but the security of tourists currently falls under the LG’s powers,” Abdullah said.
He emphasized the need for collaboration to prevent a recurrence of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. “The Union Government, the elected government here, and the Raj Bhavan need to work together to ensure what happened on April 22 does not happen again,” he stressed.
Interacting with the media persons after chairing a meeting with senior civil and police officials in Gulmarg, Omar said these back-to-back meetings were organised to restore confidence in Jammu and Kashmir tourism sector and reinforce the region’s readiness to welcome visitors.
Addressing speculations about strained ties with the Raj Bhavan, Abdullah dismissed suggestions of discord. “You only need a thaw if relations are frozen. When have I alleged a freeze? I’m simply saying we need to work together moving forward,” he said.
READ: Biren Singh Memo Meanders into History, Silent on Justice
The remarks were made following a meeting with senior civil and police officials, including the Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, focused on reviving tourism and reinforcing safety measures in the region.
Addressing the “Boycott Kashmir” campaign, Abdullah urged the Central Government to investigate and halt it, emphasizing that Kashmiris should not be held responsible for the attack. “The people of Kashmir did not carry out this attack. It was not done with our permission or for our benefit. If you punish Kashmiris by boycotting them, what shall we do? The Centre must use investigative agencies to stop this campaign,” he said, noting that unlike past incidents, Kashmiris spontaneously protested, condemning the attack.
Abdullah revealed that the cabinet has decided to build a memorial for the Pahalgam attack victims, with the Roads and Buildings Department tasked with inviting design proposals. “Once the expressions of interest are received, we will take it forward,” he added.
#CM @OmarAbdullah‘s journey is inspiring — from being a pillar of strength in every crisis to now pedaling through #Pahalgam, promoting #Peace #Tourism & #unity. Visiting temples, meeting people, launching schemes — he’s redefining leadership with heart#JammuKashmir#Kashmir pic.twitter.com/Zii3tTsvO3
— Upma Sharma (@UpmaSharma2608) May 27, 2025
READ: BJP, Allies Meet Governor, Call for Restoration of Elected Government in Manipur
He expressed gratitude to tourism delegations from across India assessing the situation to revive Kashmir’s tourism sector, which has been hit hard, with some destinations like Doodhpathri, Pahalgam parks, and Betaab Valley fully closed and others partially restricted since April 22. “This was a compulsion, but we will gradually review the list,” he said, stressing the need for Kashmiris to visit local tourist spots first to signal normalcy. “I’ve asked the Education Minister to start picnics for schools and colleges to restore vibrancy,” he added.
On the restoration of statehood, Abdullah dismissed claims that the attack stalled discussions. “My NITI Aayog speech categorically mentioned statehood, shared with the Prime Minister and council members. The conversation is ongoing, though I avoided using the special assembly session for it,” he said.
