Monday’s mayhem on Amarnath pilgrims in Anantnag had an element of surprise, but it was not entirely unexpected. For once, the militant attack underscores how securing the 40-day yatra undertaken by over two lakh faithful is a logistical nightmare that security agencies have to deal with every year. Last year, marked by the Burhani Wani’s killing, 2.2 lakh pilgrims — 1.31 lakh less than the number in 2015 — undertook the trek. This year, it is likely to fall further, though 2.15 lakh pilgrims have registered so far. Post-Anantnag, letting the spasm of terror overwhelm the new portents could well be another episode in Kashmir’s chapter of missed opportunities.

Source: Hindustan Times July 11, 2017 11:48 UTC