After 3-Hour Meeting on Pahalgam Attack, J&K Parties Support Union Government's Actions

In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened an all-party meeting on Thursday at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Conference Centre in Srinagar. The three-hour session concluded with the unanimous adoption of a resolution strongly condemning the attack and voicing support for the measures announced by the Union Government in response.

The attack, which took place on Tuesday in the scenic Baisaran meadow near Pahalgam, claimed the lives of 25 tourists and one local resident. In the resolution, parties across the political spectrum expressed deep sorrow and outrage, describing the incident as a “barbaric” and “cowardly” act that targeted innocent civilians. “Such acts of brutality are a direct assault on the values of Kashmiriyat and the inclusive idea of India,” the resolution declared.

The Central Government had announced a range of countermeasures on Wednesday, including heightened security protocols and intensified counter-terror operations. The J&K political leadership, through the resolution, lent their full support to these actions. “We affirm that no act of terror can weaken our resolve or extinguish our indomitable spirit,” the resolution stated.

In a rare display of political unity, leaders from the National Conference, Congress, People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), People’s Conference, Democratic Progressive Azad Party, CPI(M), and other regional parties stood together. The event was marked by a sombre mood as participants acknowledged the severity of the attack and the shared responsibility of preserving peace.

Omar Abdullah, who read out the resolution, emphasized the importance of national solidarity and called for justice. The meeting also highlighted the pressing need to protect Kashmiri students and residents living outside the Union Territory. The resolution urged all state governments to ensure the safety and dignity of these individuals, urging an “unwavering commitment” against harassment, discrimination, or intimidation.

PDP leader Mehboob Beig echoed this concern, warning against a backlash that could harm innocent Kashmiris elsewhere in the country. J&K Congress president Tariq Hameed Karra stressed the importance of addressing the issue through “collective wisdom,” underlining its national significance.

The resolution commended the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their solidarity and spontaneous actions in the wake of the attack. Across the Valley, peaceful demonstrations and shutdowns were held, reflecting the collective grief and condemnation. “The extraordinary display of moral and material support to tourists and the resolute unity against the attack are commendable,” the resolution noted.

A special mention was made of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony handler who died trying to resist the terrorists. His bravery was hailed as a symbol of the region’s resilience and humanity.

Sajad Lone of the People’s Conference said the meeting was “a moment of solidarity,” where all parties were “on the same page.” BJP MLA R S Pathania added that despite ideological differences, unity against terrorism remained strong.

The resolution concluded with a call for continued communal harmony, constitutional adherence, and collaborative efforts for the peace and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.