Jammu: VHP threatens agitation over shortening of Amarnath yatra

Chaitra Krushna 9, Kaliyug Varsha 5114

JAMMU: The VHP today threatened to launch a countrywide agitation to protest against the curtailment of Amarnath yatra duration from 60 days to 39 days and demanded the resignation of governor NN Vohra as chairman of Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB).

The outfit also demanded the reconstitution of the shrine board.

"We demand resignation of Vohra as chairman of SASB for curtailment of the yatra to 39 days this year under the pressure of separatists. The board should be reconstituted," VHP state chief Ramakant Dubey told reporters here.

The shrine board has announced June 25 as the new date for starting the yatra.

The VHP demands for the reconstitution of SASB, which should comprise only those members having full faith in Hindu religion, he said.

Dubey said the yatra shall commence from auspicious Jyeshth Purnima, which is falling on June 4, a practice which has been going on for the last several years.

He said the VHP will organise protest demonstrations at all district headquarters across the country from April 16 to press their demand for the early commencement of yatra.

In case an immediate decision is not taken in this regard, the VHP will start the yatra on its own from June 4, he said.

Source : Times of India