Union Home Minister Amit Shah began a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on bolstering security and reviewing administrative preparedness, especially in light of recent border tensions. This significant visit, Shah’s first since the Indian Army’s Operation Sindoor, emphasizes New Delhi’s strategic and humanitarian commitment to the region.

Security Review Meeting in Jammu: Key Decisions and Stakeholders Involved

Upon his arrival in Jammu on Thursday, Amit Shah was warmly received by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the airport. The two leaders headed directly to Raj Bhawan, where Shah chaired a crucial high-level security meeting late in the evening.

This meeting included top-ranking officials from the Indian Army, paramilitary forces, Jammu and Kashmir Police, intelligence agencies, and the civil administration. Together, they reviewed the current security situation, especially in border-sensitive zones, and evaluated the progress of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

Focus on Amarnath Yatra 2024: Security and Administrative Preparedness

A vital part of Shah’s agenda was to assess the preparations for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, which is set to begin on July 3. With thousands of pilgrims expected to participate, ensuring their safety is a top priority. The review involved detailed discussions on both logistical and security arrangements, including deployment of security forces, emergency response strategies, and coordination among agencies.

Visit to Shelling-Affected Poonch: A Gesture of Solidarity

On Friday, the Home Minister visited the border district of Poonch, a region that recently experienced intense cross-border shelling. Shah met with civilians affected by the attacks at Dak Bungalow and later visited the Border Security Force (BSF) unit headquarters at Khanetar, where he interacted directly with the troops.

These visits served a dual purpose—boosting the morale of security personnel and extending solidarity and support to civilians impacted by the violence. Shah is also expected to distribute appointment letters to the families of civilians who lost their lives during the shelling, offering not just words but tangible support.

Development Will Not Be Derailed: Shah’s Firm Message from the Border

Delivering a powerful statement from Poonch, Shah assured that the progress and development of Jammu and Kashmir will continue unabated. “The pace of development, which began in 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, will not be derailed by recent provocations,” he stated firmly.

He underlined that any attempt to destabilize the region would be met with a “strong and decisive” response, reaffirming India’s stance on national security and integrity.

Appreciating Security Forces and Civil Administration

Shah took the opportunity to commend the bravery and vigilance of India’s armed forces and the swift action of the local civil administration. He especially recognized the sacrifices made by personnel during recent India-Pakistan conflicts and applauded the quick evacuation efforts that saved civilian lives during shelling incidents.

Congress Demands Relief Package for Border Residents

Ahead of Shah’s visit, the Jammu and Kashmir Congress called for a comprehensive relief and rehabilitation package for residents affected by cross-border violence. Raman Bhalla, the party’s working president, emphasized the need to allocate five marla plots in safer locations for these families.

“The victims of cross-border shelling deserve immediate attention and support,” Bhalla urged, pressing for Shah to announce a formal relief initiative during his visit.

Shah’s Continued Engagement with Jammu & Kashmir

This visit marks Amit Shah’s third trip to Jammu and Kashmir since April 6. He visited the region again on April 23, just a day after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists. His frequent engagements signal the central government’s intensified focus on restoring peace and accelerating development in the Union Territory.

Operation Sindoor and Beyond: A Strategic Shift

Shah’s current visit gains added significance as it follows Operation Sindoor and India’s retaliatory strikes against terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These operations were conducted in response to the Pahalgam attack and signaled a renewed assertiveness in India’s counter-terror strategy.

His visit underscores a critical message: national security remains uncompromisable, and India’s resolve against terrorism is stronger than ever.

Amit Shah’s two-day tour of Jammu and Poonch reaffirms the government’s three-pronged approach—security enhancement, development continuity, and humanitarian support. His interactions with both the security personnel and affected civilians, coupled with strategic reviews, emphasize a clear narrative: Jammu and Kashmir is on a determined path of stability and growth.

Shah’s visit sends a resounding message to adversaries and citizens alike—the spirit of development will prevail, and the nation stands united in its mission to protect and empower every corner of its territory.