Protests Erupt Over Ropeway Project in Jammu

Protests against a proposed ₹250-crore ropeway project leading to the Vaishno Devi shrine escalated in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in clashes between demonstrators and police. The protesters, primarily shopkeepers and laborers, fear job losses due to the project and extended their strike to 96 hours. Tensions rose when a Central Reserve Police Force vehicle attempted to pass through a protest area, leading to violence where protesters damaged the vehicle. Meanwhile, in Newcastle, Australia, police charged 170 activists for disrupting shipping at the port during a climate protest organized by Rising Tide, with claims of safety risks during the incident. In Sambhal, heavy security was deployed during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, where protests turned violent as demonstrators clashed with police, prompting the use of force to restore order. Authorities are emphasizing the importance of safety and order amidst these escalating tensions across various protests.