Leh, April 30 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah who arrived here on Thursday on a two-day visit to the Union Territory of Ladakh, said he is looking forward to the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima on Friday, when he will join devotees in paying respects to the sacred relics of Lord Buddha.

Union Minister Shah in a post on X said: “Tomorrow will be a historic day for Ladakh, when, on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima, the sacred relics of Lord Buddha will be available for the people of Ladakh to pay their respects.”

“I consider myself fortunate that I, too, will have the rare opportunity tomorrow to have darshan of these holy relics.”

“In order that these sacred relics may be easily accessible for darshan by the people of Ladakh over the next two weeks, I held a meeting today with the Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and the concerned officials in this regard.”

Union Minister Shah was welcomed on arrival by Ladakh Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena, senior government officials, elected representatives, and local residents, many of whom were dressed in traditional attire.

“He (Union Home Minister Amit Shah) will be paying respects to the holy relics of Lord Buddha on Friday (May 1) on the occasion of the 2569th Buddha Purnima. The Home Minister’s visit and his vision for the development of Ladakh shall motivate us to work towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of Ladakh,” Lieutenant Governor Saxena said.

After the arrival of the Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha in Leh, people have been gathering in large numbers to pay their respects.

This is Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s first visit to Ladakh since protests over demands for statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule in September last year, during which four protesters were killed and more than 80 others injured.

The Centre has decided to engage in dialogue with representatives from Ladakh to address their concerns and explore measures to preserve the region’s unique environment and cultural heritage.

Union Minister Amit Shah is also scheduled to launch major dairy and cooperative sector projects during his visit to Ladakh.

–IANS

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