Why Did the Omar Abdullah Government Hold a Special Cabinet Meeting in Pahalgam?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, the Jammu and Kashmir government hosted a unique cabinet meeting in Pahalgam to address the pressing issue of tourism decline post-terror attack. This initiative aims to restore faith in the Valley's safety while engaging with local stakeholders for rejuvenation strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Government's commitment to safety
- Symbolic meeting to counter violence
- Engagement with local tourism stakeholders
- Focus on revitalizing tourism post-attack
- Historic meeting held outside capital cities
Srinagar, May 27 (NationPress) The government of Jammu and Kashmir convened a special cabinet session at the Pahalgam tourist destination to deliver a robust message against terrorism and violence following the heinous terror attack that resulted in 26 fatalities on April 22.
This location was chosen to show solidarity with the community of Pahalgam, which has seen a significant drop in visitors since the tragic incident.
More crucial than the cabinet's agenda is the symbolic importance of this meeting, signifying to anti-national and anti-social factions that violence has no place in Jammu and Kashmir.
This marks the first cabinet meeting held outside the capital cities of Srinagar and Jammu since the Omar Abdullah-led administration took office in October 2024.
During his previous tenure as chief minister from 2009-2014, Omar Abdullah conducted cabinet meetings in remote regions such as Gurez, Machil, Tangdhar in northern Kashmir, and Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu.
The decision to hold a special cabinet meeting comes just two days after CM Omar Abdullah suggested a two-fold strategy to rejuvenate the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, which has been severely affected by the Pahalgam terror attack. He urged the Centre to instruct public sector undertakings (PSUs) to hold meetings in Kashmir and to arrange parliamentary committee meetings there.
This appeal was made during the governing council gathering of the NITI Aayog, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to sources, the chief minister and his cabinet members will also engage with tourism stakeholders in Pahalgam to seek recommendations on revitalizing tourism in the Valley following the April 22 attack.
The holding of the cabinet meeting in Pahalgam is viewed as a strategic move to convey that there is no reason for alarm and that Kashmir continues to be a safe destination for tourists.
Point of View
It’s crucial to recognize the steps taken by the Jammu and Kashmir government to assert that violence will not deter peace and progress. The cabinet meeting in Pahalgam highlights a commitment to the region's stability and its tourism sector, which is vital for local livelihoods.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the purpose of the cabinet meeting in Pahalgam?
The purpose of the cabinet meeting was to convey a strong message against terrorism and to engage with local stakeholders to revitalize tourism in the region after the recent tragic attack.
Why was Pahalgam chosen for the meeting?
Pahalgam was chosen as it symbolizes solidarity with local residents and aims to assure that the area remains a safe destination for tourists.
What initiatives were proposed to boost tourism?
CM Omar Abdullah proposed a dual approach, urging the Centre to direct PSUs to hold meetings in Kashmir and to facilitate parliamentary discussions there.
How does this meeting impact local sentiment?
The meeting is intended to reassure locals and tourists alike that the government is committed to restoring peace and safety in the Valley.
When did Omar Abdullah previously hold cabinet meetings in remote areas?
Omar Abdullah held previous cabinet meetings in remote regions during his first term as chief minister from 2009 to 2014.
