Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Nov 25: The Governor of Punjab, Gulab Chand Kataria on Tuesday walked through the streets of Lal Chowk in Srinagar, describing the iconic square as a reflection of India’s unity and Kashmir’s journey from uncertainty to progress.
Recalling the ‘Ekta Yatra’ led by senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi, as a journey that culminated with the hoisting of the tricolour at the same spot, Kataria said it was an emotional moment to see the flag flying freely at the Clock Tower.
“The tricolour here is not just a piece of cloth. It represents our collective struggle, unity and pride as a nation. I always wanted to stand here, where the symbol of India’s integrity waves proudly,” he told reporters, at clock tower Lal Chowk.
Kataria, who arrived in Kashmir on a multi-day visit, said Srinagar’s transformation into one of India’s top tourist destinations was a matter of national pride. “There was a time when coming here wasn’t easy. But today, tourists from all over India are walking freely in Lal Chowk and enjoying the beauty of Kashmir. That is the biggest sign of peace and progress,” he said.
The Governor also praised the Valley’s cold weather and natural charm, saying both have helped boost winter tourism. “Kashmir’s chill carries warmth and it brings people together. The more tourists visit, the stronger our emotional and cultural unity becomes,” he added.
Referring directly to the recent Pahalgam incident, Kataria said occasional challenges should not overshadow Kashmir’s enduring spirit. “Since 1947, border states have faced many tests. But the people of Jammu and Kashmir have shown unmatched resilience and faith in peace,” he said.
As Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh, Kataria said his office remains open to everyone. “My doors are open. Governance should be accessible, that’s the foundation of trust,” he said.
Standing at Lal Chowk, Kataria described the moment as deeply personal and patriotic. “This place reflects India’s unity, progress and shared spirit. It fills my heart with pride to see the tricolour flying high here,” he said, adding that the scene of tourists, locals and business activity at the city centre was itself “a message of normalcy and confidence.”
The Punjab Governor also appreciated the growing tourism sector in the region, noting its role in strengthening emotional and cultural unity across India. “Tourism is not just about destinations; it’s about hearts connecting. Kashmir today is connecting India in ways that go beyond geography, through people, stories and shared pride,” he said.
Moreover, Kataria also interacted briefly with residents and security personnel stationed in the area. He said the people of Kashmir have always been the region’s greatest ambassadors of hospitality and peace.
