1 week Ago
Srinagar, Apr 26: A delegation of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) led by President Javid Ahmad Tenga on Saturday met with the Honourable Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan to express the business community’s condemnation of Pahalgam gruesome attack on innocent civilians in which 26 tourists and a local guide lost their lives.A statement issued by KCCI said that the delegation, which included Junior Vice President Fayaz Ahmad Punjabi, Secretary General Faiz Bakshi, and Joint Secretary General Umar Nazir Tibetbaqal, conveyed to the Lieutenant Governor that the heinous attack has deeply wounded the “Soul of Kashmir” and left every citizen shattered and bereaved.During the meeting, President Javid Ahmad Tenga emphasised that this was not the time to discuss the business, but about the devastating human losses that have hit all Kashmiris.
The Chamber deeply feel the pain of every innocent life lost. These tragic deaths transcend economic considerations and strike at the very heart of society and shared humanity.The statement said that the LG was informed about the KCCI decision to visit the families of Pahalgam victims to express solidarity with them.
It sought LG’s support in facilitating the visit. The LG assured of his support at the appropriate time.“The concerns were also raised about the reports of harassment of Kashmiri students, businessmen, and residents living outside Jammu and Kashmir following the incident.
The Chamber requested the Lieutenant Governor’s intervention with the central government and various state governments to ensure that no Kashmiri faced harassment, intimidation, or threats outside the region.”“In response, the Lieutenant Governor informed that the matter relating to harassment of students and others has already been taken up with the Union Home Ministry, which issued directions to all States/Union territories regarding the safety of Kashmiri students and businessmen located in various parts of the country.”LG Manoj Sinha assured the KCCI delegation of his commitment to addressing their concerns.
He expressed disappointment with the challenges arising out of the Pahalgham incident, particularly the growing tourism sector. He added that the attack was aimed at disrupting the peace, tranquillity and economy of J&K, which had revived after strenuous efforts and hard work by the Government and the stakeholders.The delegation also highlighted the pressing issue of the 80 percent reduction in private Hajj quota across the country and the problems faced by local private Hajj operators and the uncertainty surrounding the intending pilgrims, and the issues related to the refund of payments already transferred to Saudi counterparts.
KCC&I sought the Lieutenant Governor’s intervention with the Ministry of Minority Affairs to address this matter. The LG assured to take up the matter of Private Hajj operators and Pilgrims with the Minister of Minority Affairs.The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry reiterated its steadfast commitment to peace, progress, and development in Jammu and Kashmir, pledging to support all constructive efforts in building a more peaceful and prosperous future for the region.
It offered its full support in making the Amarnath Yatra successful. The post LG assures KCCI team on safety of Kashmiri students, businessmen outside J&K appeared first on Greater Kashmir..
