Protests against Vaishno Devi ropeway project turn violent in Jammu and Kashmir

Protests against the ₹250 crore Vaishno Devi ropeway project turned violent in Jammu & Kashmir's Reasi district, injuring a policeman. Demonstrators clashed with police, fearing job losses from the project announced by the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The protests began on November 22, with shopkeepers and pony owners striking against the project. Tensions escalated when a police vehicle was attacked during a protest. Clashes involved stone pelting and physical confrontations with security personnel. After discussions with officials, the protests were suspended. The district administration promised to engage with stakeholders to address concerns about job losses. A deadline of December 15 was set for further talks.