Srinagar, June 15, 2026 : Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Monday described the upcoming Amarnath Yatra as a powerful opportunity to counter misconceptions about Kashmir and strengthen bonds of trust, harmony, and coexistence between the region and the rest of the country.
Addressing an event in South Kashmir, Mufti emphasized that the annual pilgrimage is not merely a religious journey but also a symbol of Kashmir’s enduring culture of hospitality, compassion, and communal harmony.
“Collective Responsibility” to Safeguard Pilgrims
Mufti stated that ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims is not solely the responsibility of security agencies but a shared obligation of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling for a peaceful people’s initiative, she urged residents across the Valley to make every pilgrim feel welcomed, respected, and secure throughout their journey.
“Safeguarding the Amarnath Yatra is not merely the responsibility of security agencies; it is our collective duty,” she said.
She appealed to Kashmiris to extend warmth and support to visiting devotees, saying that positive interactions can help bridge misunderstandings and strengthen national unity.
Pilgrims Can Carry Kashmir’s True Story
Highlighting the broader social significance of the pilgrimage, Mufti said that every pilgrim returning home with a positive experience becomes an ambassador of Kashmir’s true identity.
“If every yatri leaves with a positive experience, they will carry the true story of Kashmir to every corner of India — a story of warmth, humanity, coexistence, and the enduring spirit of our people,” she said.
According to Mufti, such experiences can help defeat narratives of hatred and mistrust that have developed about the region in recent years.
“A Statement of Coexistence”
Describing the Amarnath Yatra as much more than a religious event, the PDP leader said the pilgrimage reflects the spirit of peaceful coexistence that has historically defined Kashmir.
“Amarnath Yatra is more than a pilgrimage; it is a statement of coexistence,” she remarked.
She added that as the annual pilgrimage begins, destinations such as Pahalgam welcome devotees not only through security arrangements but also through the warmth and hospitality of local residents.
“Every devotee walking this sacred path carries forward the message of compassion, coexistence and resilience. Every successful yatra is a triumph of harmony over hate,” she said.
NHRC Takes Cognisance of Harassment Complaints
Mufti’s remarks come amid growing concerns regarding reports of harassment and discrimination faced by some Kashmiris in different parts of the country.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reportedly taken cognisance of alleged incidents involving harassment, discrimination, and attacks on Kashmiri shawl sellers and students in several states.
The issue has sparked discussions about social harmony and the need to promote mutual understanding among communities.
Amarnath Yatra 2026 Schedule
The annual pilgrimage to the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine in South Kashmir is scheduled to commence on July 3, 2026, and conclude on August 28, 2026, spanning a total of 57 days.
Pilgrims will be able to access the shrine through two established routes:
• Nunwan-Pahalgam Route (Anantnag District) – The traditional 48-kilometre route.
• Baltal Route (Ganderbal District) – A shorter 14-kilometre but steeper route.
Authorities are currently finalizing security, logistics, accommodation, and healthcare arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage.
Key Highlights
• Mehbooba Mufti says Amarnath Yatra can help defeat hate and mistrust about Kashmir.
• She urged Kashmiris to warmly welcome and support visiting pilgrims.
• Called the pilgrimage a symbol of coexistence, compassion, and harmony.
• Stated that every positive pilgrim experience helps showcase Kashmir’s true identity.
• NHRC has taken cognisance of reported harassment incidents involving Kashmiris in other parts of India.
• Amarnath Yatra 2026 will begin on July 3 and conclude on August 28.
• Pilgrims will travel through the Pahalgam and Baltal routes to the holy cave shrine.
