Mohr Irfan
In a surprising turn of events, the ongoing agitation against the proposed ropeway project in Katra, spearheaded by the Katra Sangarsh Samiti, witnessed the participation of BJP MLA Baldev Sharma, signaling cracks within the BJP’s approach to the issue. The project, meant to enhance connectivity to the holy shrine of Vaishno Devi, has drawn widespread ire from locals, who see it as a threat to the town’s heritage and ecology.
The agitation has garnered support from all major opposition parties, including the Congress, further intensifying the pressure on the BJP-led administration. Leaders across the political spectrum have joined hands with the Katra Sangarsh Samiti, amplifying public discontent and painting the project as a misstep by the administration.
Amidst escalating tensions, MLA Baldev Sharma surprised many by joining the protesters at the demonstration site, marking his first public stance against the project. Addressing the crowd, Sharma expressed gratitude to the Sangarsh Samiti for their united front and commended the younger protesters for their resilience.
“Katra has shown unparalleled unity,” he declared to chants of “Katra Ekta Zindabad.” Sharma condemned the filing of FIRs and arrests of protesters, labeling the actions as unjust and calling for their immediate release. “I stand with you in this hour for shelving the ropeway project,” he assured the demonstrators, though he refrained from committing to a written promise, stating it would not resolve the issue comprehensively.
Sharma’s participation in the protests underscores a possible rift within the BJP. He revealed that the Home Minister had taken note of the controversy and summoned senior BJP leaders, including party president Sat Pal Sharma and Tarun Chugh, to address the crisis. This intervention highlights the political sensitivity of the project and its potential fallout in the region. “We have conveyed to the Home Minister that the ropeway route should be reconsidered, ensuring it does not disrupt the sanctity of Katra,” Sharma stated, reiterating his solidarity with the protesters.
Despite Sharma’s assurances, the Sangarsh Samiti remains steadfast in its demand for a written commitment to scrap the project. Protesters chanted slogans in support of the Samiti, vowing to continue their agitation until their demands are met. With the opposition united and BJP leaders facing mounting pressure, the controversy over the ropeway project has turned into a litmus test for the ruling party’s ability to balance development with public sentiment.
As the agitation continues to gain momentum, Sharma’s participation may signal a shift in the BJP’s approach, but whether it will suffice to quell the unrest remains to be seen. For now, Katra stands as a symbol of resistance, with its residents determined to safeguard their heritage against what they perceive as an ill-conceived development project.
