Jammu, Mar 19: Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Wednesday extended greetings on the occasion of Navratri, saying the festival reflects the spirit of unity, brotherhood and communal harmony in the Union Territory.
Choudhary described Navratri as a spiritual occasion that connects different communities.
Speaking to reporters after offering prayers at the Maa Bawe Wali shrine here, he noted the significance of various religious observances coinciding in the region.
“Navratri dedicated to Maa Durga has begun and it is a sacred festival with which every individual is emotionally connected. This is the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir; while one community is observing Roza, another starts Navratri. With Eid approaching, different festivals are being celebrated together,” he said.
Highlighting the region’s composite culture, he said that such coexistence reflects the true essence of Jammu and Kashmir and the country.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that he visited the shrine in a personal capacity along with his two sons. “There is nothing political about my visit. I came to bow my head and seek blessings. The Mother has already given me so much, and one does not need to ask as she knows what her children need,” he said.
Praying for peace and prosperity, Choudhary said that he sought blessings for sustained harmony in Jammu and Kashmir. “The brotherhood for which J&K is known should always remain intact as it will ensure progress, development and stronger relationships,” he added.
He also conveyed greetings on behalf of the government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, extending greetings to devotees across the country and abroad.
Responding to a query on restrictions imposed on media inside the temple premises, Choudhary said that such measures were necessitated by security considerations.
“These are compulsions of security. Restrictions are always for public safety. Given certain past incidents, security agencies cannot take risks and have to make proper arrangements,” he said.
He added that police and security agencies remain alert to prevent any untoward incident that could harm people or disturb communal harmony.
“There are disruptive forces in society, and attempts are often made to create disturbances in Jammu and Kashmir. Hence, whether it is a Hindu or Muslim festival, the effort is to ensure peaceful celebrations,” he said.
Reiterating his faith, Choudhary said he had come only to offer prayers and not to discuss security issues. “The Mother has always protected us and will continue to do so,” he added.
