Hindu Pilgrimage Begins Amid Tight Security In Disputed Kashmir

The annual month-long Amarnath pilgrimage began in Indian-controlled Kashmir amid heightened security following a deadly April 22 attack by gunmen who killed 26 mostly Hindu tourists near Pahalgam, the base for the pilgrimage. This attack escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to a four-day conflict with over 70 casualties before a ceasefire was reached on May 10. India has deployed 45,000 troops equipped with high-tech surveillance, including facial recognition cameras and armored vehicles, to secure the pilgrimage route. Pilgrims must register and travel in guarded convoys, with security forces maintaining tight control over the area, including fortifying base camps with razor wire and camouflaged bunkers. Despite the risks, pilgrims like Muneshwar Das Shashtri have expressed confidence in the army's protection, reflecting the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of devotees. Additionally, the pilgrimage has historically been supported by local communities, including Kashmiri Muslims, and continues to evolve with enhanced government involvement and security measures.