GoI must consult Omar Abdullah and take steps to ensure safety in Kashmir, says Mamata Banerjee

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called on the government of India to take immediate and concrete steps to improve the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, stressing that such action is critical for reviving tourism in the Union Territory.

Following her meeting with JK’s former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the state secretariat in Kolkata, Banerjee said she had accepted his invitation to visit the Valley and hopes to make the trip after the Durga Puja festivities. “Omar visited me and invited me to Kashmir. I’ve accepted the invitation and will try to go after the Puja,” she said.

Highlighting the limitations of local governance in a Union Territory, Banerjee stressed that maintaining law and order in Kashmir falls under the GoI jurisdiction. “The Government of India must step in and ensure tighter border and internal security so that tourists feel safe visiting Kashmir. They must also consult Omar Abdullah and take appropriate steps if required,” she added.

Banerjee expressed solidarity with Kashmir, urging citizens, especially tourists from Bengal, not to fear. “We are ready to extend every possible support. I encourage our people to visit Kashmir—it remains one of the most beautiful parts of our country.”

Omar Abdullah, who had earlier inaugurated a travel and tourism fair in Kolkata, said he had a “fruitful discussion with Didi” and invited tourists from West Bengal to explore Kashmir. “We assure full security to our guests. Tourism is bouncing back and we hope to build stronger ties with Bengal in areas like trade, culture, and tourism,” he said.

Abdullah acknowledged the concerns following the Pahalgam incident but noted that security audits are underway and corrective measures are being implemented. “Rather than listening to outsiders with no understanding of the region, trust those who have visited Kashmir recently,” he remarked.

He also recalled Banerjee’s support during difficult times, including her condemnation of the events of 2019 and her gesture of sending a delegation to Poonch and Rajouri after the recent terror attack. “Her solidarity has always meant a lot to us,” Abdullah said.

Banerjee, meanwhile, proposed deeper cooperation between Bengal and Kashmir. “Let’s sign an MoU to promote cultural and tourism exchanges. Kashmir is known for its art, music, spices, and dry fruits. It is very close to my heart,” she said, adding that Tollywood should consider shooting films in the Valley.

She also extended invitations to the people of Kashmir to join Bengal in its Durga Puja, Independence Day, and Republic Day celebrations. “Kashmir and Bengal share deep bonds—we must build on them,” she concluded.