Jammu, Oct 15: Jammu & Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) Working President and former minister Raman Bhalla on Sunday underlined the significance of festivals like Navratras in promoting unity in diversity and celebrating the composite culture of J&K. He said such events provide a platform for people of all backgrounds to come together, share their cultures, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and communal harmony.
According to a JKPCC statement, Bhalla participated in the grand Shobha Yatra, which commenced from Bage-E-Bahu Bawe-Bali-Mata with fervent religious devotion amidst the chanting of Bhajans and hymns in praise of Maa Vaishno Devi, heading towards the famous Mahamaya Mandir.
In his festive greetings, Bhalla expressed that Navratras offer an opportunity for pilgrims to experience the rich cultural heritage and peaceful coexistence among people of diverse faiths. He urged the Governor Administration to enhance infrastructural facilities at Bawe Bali Mata temple to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims effectively. He also encouraged the younger generation to embrace and preserve the diverse traditions embedded in Indian festivals, advocating for the protection and promotion of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and folk art forms.
Acknowledging the role of local associations in organizing Navratra events, the Congress leader praised their active involvement, emphasizing that such celebrations thrive due to the enthusiastic participation of the locals. He highlighted the growing popularity of the festival and urged the government to ensure modern amenities for pilgrims visiting the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji and Shiv Khori shrines. Bhalla emphasized the urgent need to develop facilities at significant temples like Mahamaya Mandir, Shree Ranbireshwar Mandir, Shree Raghunath Mandir, and Chichi Mata Mandir to accommodate the increasing number of devotees.
Meanwhile, Bhalla criticized the BJP government, asserting that it has failed to address the concerns of the common people. He called for the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, citing the Congress’ efforts to voice the people’s concerns against the undemocratic and unconstitutional steps taken by the Centre. He accused the PDP-BJP Government of causing misery to the people due to incompetent policies and administrative inexperience, leading to the public’s discontent and frustration.
The JKPCC leader also expressed his dismay at the BJP government’s “diversionary tactics”, claiming that they distract from the real issues of governance and the unfulfilled promises made by the party. He said there is a prevailing sense of alienation and deprivation in Jammu Province, and attributed it to the “opportunistic politics” of the BJP and its local leaders.
