British MP Bob Blackman voiced support for India’s right to respond to the Pahalgam terror attack. He noted that even cross-LoC military strikes could be considered if necessary. Speaking during a memorial at India House in London, he expressed deep sorrow. According to him, the attack reflected hatred rooted in religion, which must never be allowed to spread. Blackman had already raised the issue in the UK Parliament. There, he urged the British government to back India’s right to respond in a fitting manner. He feared the attack could inflame regional tensions. At the same time, he extended condolences to the victims, their families, and the global Hindu community.
Reflections on Kashmir
During his speech, Blackman remembered visiting Kashmir nine years ago. He said the region’s beauty had left a strong impression on him and condemned the attack as a direct attempt to harm peace and tourism.
He pledged continued support for India’s efforts to catch the attackers and their enablers. If justice could not be served, he felt the perpetrators must be dealt with decisively.
Indian Diaspora Stands in Solidarity
The Indian High Commission held the memorial to honour the victims. Members of the Indian diaspora joined the event to express unity and grief. UK Labour MP Catherine West, who serves as Minister for the Indo-Pacific, also attended. She described the Pahalgam attack as horrific and voiced strong support for India.
Bipartisan Presence Noted
West appreciated the attendance of lawmakers from both UK Houses of Parliament. She underlined the importance of unity and said the UK would keep standing by India during such times. Union Minister L Murugan and Maharashtra’s Sanjay Shirsat were present. Alongside them, several UK MPs expressed condolences and support.
Terrorist Intentions Made Clear
India’s High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami explained the broader aim behind the attack. He said terrorists wanted to cripple normal life in Jammu and Kashmir and damage tourism. He highlighted that the incident was the deadliest civilian massacre since the Mumbai terror attacks. Attackers, he said, dragged people from vehicles and killed them based on religion.
Doraiswami revealed that a newlywed couple and a child were among those killed. He stressed that these were ordinary tourists, not political targets. He echoed Prime Minister Modi’s stance. Doraiswami said India would never forget or forgive the attack and that those responsible would face serious consequences.
Terror in Pahalgam Leaves 26 Dead
On April 22, gunmen struck a group of tourists at Baisaran meadow. The assault killed 25 Indians and one Nepalese national and injured several others. In response, India blamed Pakistan for aiding cross-border terrorism and vowed firm action.
