PM Modi and J-K CM Omar share warm gestures in a moment of unity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah exchanged warm gestures in Sonamarg on Monday. This public display of goodwill came during Modi’s visit to inaugurate the Z-Morh tunnel in Ganderbal district. The 6.5-km tunnel will provide year-round connectivity to the hill resort along the Srinagar-Leh highway, significantly improving travel in the region.
This visit marked Modi’s first to J&K since the Abdullah-led National Conference formed the government in October. After unveiling the tunnel, Modi received a Sozni shawl and a papier mache painting from Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Abdullah. Modi and Abdullah warmly shook hands, with Modi applauding Abdullah’s speech. The chief minister praised Modi for strengthening ties between the people of J&K and Delhi. He also expressed confidence that the promised restoration of statehood would soon come to fruition.
In his speech, Abdullah highlighted the Centre’s efforts to bring peace to the borders and acknowledged development in far-flung areas like Machil, Gurez, Karnah, and Keran. He noted the boost to tourism, which has helped local economies. Modi, in his address, reciprocated Abdullah’s comments and praised his social media posts about the tunnel ahead of the inauguration.
Modi reminisced about his early days as a BJP worker in the region. He fondly recalled walking through the snow in areas like Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Ganderbal, and Baramulla, always receiving a warm welcome from the locals. He expressed that the beautiful landscape and the warm hospitality made him feel at home despite the cold.
Both leaders shared mutual respect for each other’s contributions and exchanged gestures of goodwill. Modi’s visit to J&K not only symbolized political unity but also showcased a deep commitment to the region’s development.
