Promoting peace through pedals: J&K CM Omar Abdullah cycles in Pahalgam

Weeks after the Pahalgam terror attack that affected visitor numbers in the Valley, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah cycled through the streets of Pahalgam on May 27 to promote tourism and send a message of resilience.

"Took advantage of being in Pahalgam to cycle around town for a little while this evening," Abdullah wrote on social media platform X, sharing photographs of his ride.

Emphasizing that violence would not derail progress, he said, "Terrorism and bloodshed will not stop tourism, happiness, and development in Jammu and Kashmir."

Abdullah highlighted tourism as a vital component of the Union Territory’s economy, stressing that it should be treated as a conflict-neutral activity.

"Tourism is a lifeline for thousands of families in Jammu and Kashmir," he said.

He also commended the people of Pahalgam for their courage in the aftermath of the terror attack.

"This meeting is our way of thanking them – for their resilience, for raising their voice against terrorism, and for not giving in to fear," he said.

The Chief Minister chaired a Cabinet meeting in Pahalgam on the same day, the first such session held outside Srinagar or Jammu during his tenure.

“The meeting was not just a routine administrative exercise, but a clear message – we are not intimidated by cowardly acts of terror,” he said.

Reaffirming the government's determination, Abdullah added, "The enemies of peace will never dictate our resolve. Jammu and Kashmir stand firm, strong, and unafraid.”