Pahalgam, June 15 (KNS): PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Monday said safeguarding the annual Amarnath Yatra was the responsibility of the people of Jammu and Kashmir even more than that of the security forces, and urged residents to welcome pilgrims with warmth and hospitality.

Addressing a gathering in Pahalgam, Mufti said the Yatra should be viewed as an opportunity to promote communal harmony and bridge divisions at a time when hate and polarisation were increasing.

"Protecting the Yatra is our responsibility — more than that of the security forces," she said.

The former chief minister said pilgrims visiting Kashmir act as ambassadors to the rest of the country and their experience in the Valley could help counter negative perceptions about Kashmir and its people.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

She urged locals to reach out to visitors with awareness, compassion and a spirit of unity.

"The negative propaganda against Kashmir and Muslims can only be countered through genuine human outreach and a heartfelt welcome to yatris," Mufti said.

She said she wanted the pilgrimage to be seen as a locally protected, locally owned and locally supported process that strengthens trust and reinforces Kashmir's tradition of hospitality.

The annual Amarnath Yatra is scheduled to commence next month amid elaborate security and administrative arrangements.(KNS).