Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, calling it not only a barbaric assault on innocent lives but also a direct attack on the ethos of Kashmiriyat and the long-standing unity of the region.
Speaking at a press conference following an all-party meeting held at SKICC Srinagar, the Chief Minister said the spirit of Kashmir was being tested, but the people of Jammu and Kashmir remain united in grief and resilience, standing firm in their commitment to peace and harmony.
Omar expressed deep sorrow over the brutal attack that took place on 22 April, claiming the lives of 26 civilians, most of whom were tourists. The meeting, which saw participation from leaders across political lines, concluded with the unanimous adoption of a resolution condemning the attack and pledging collective action against terrorism.
“We, the participants of the all-party meeting, are deeply anguished by the horrific events in Pahalgam. We have adopted this resolution in a spirit of collective solidarity and firm resolve,” said the Chief Minister.
The resolution described the attack as a “heinous and inhumane act” that targeted both the spirit of Kashmiriyat and the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Omar added, “Such cowardly acts have no place in our society.”
He emphasised that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are fully committed to supporting all efforts to bring the perpetrators and their backers to justice. “No act of terror can shake our resolve or extinguish our indomitable spirit,” he said.
The all-party resolution also endorsed the measures taken by the Union Government on 23 April in response to the attack, including the downgrading of diplomatic ties with Pakistan and the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
Expressing his condolences, Omar stated, “We stand with the bereaved families in this hour of grief.”
The Chief Minister paid tribute to Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a local horseman from Pahalgam who lost his life while heroically rescuing tourists from the assailants. “His courage and selflessness will remain a lasting symbol of true Kashmiriyat and the hospitality Kashmir is known for,” said Omar, as quoted by KNS.
He also lauded the people of Kashmir for extending moral and material support to tourists and maintaining peace. He noted the widespread peaceful protests across Jammu and Kashmir as a reflection of the populace’s dedication to peace, communal harmony, and the rule of law.
The resolution included an earnest appeal to all state and Union Territory governments across India to ensure the safety of Kashmiris, particularly students and workers residing outside Jammu and Kashmir. “These individuals must be safeguarded against any form of harassment, discrimination, or intimidation,” the resolution urged.
Calling for unity and collective strength, Omar urged political parties, religious leaders, community elders, youth, civil society, and the media to remain calm and resist any provocations. “Let us work hand in hand for the peace and progress of Jammu and Kashmir,” he concluded.
The resolution was unanimously adopted on 24 April in Srinagar.
