Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah made it clear on Monday that he would not demand statehood for the region in the aftermath of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people. Addressing the J&K legislative assembly, Abdullah questioned the ethics of using such a horrific event as a platform for political demands, saying, “Meri kya itni sasti siyasat hai?” (Is my politics so cheap?)
No Political Gains from Tragedy
Abdullah emphasized that while he remains committed to demanding statehood for Jammu and Kashmir in the future, he would not make such a demand now while the nation is still mourning the loss of innocent lives. “After Pahalgam, with what face can I ask for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir?” he said, stressing that it would be shameful to make such a request in the wake of the attack. He also expressed deep sorrow over his inability to protect the tourists and extended his heartfelt apologies to the grieving families.
Emotional Apology to Victims’ Families
The Chief Minister spoke emotionally about the loss faced by the families of the victims. He struggled to find the right words to apologize, asking, “What should I say to those children who lost their father and to a wife who lost her husband?” Reflecting on the tragic loss, he acknowledged the immense pain of those affected by the attack and emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir did not support the violence. Abdullah also made it clear that those responsible for the attack did not act in the name of the region’s people, and they had not been given any approval for such an act.
Hope Amid Tragedy
Despite the grim situation, Abdullah found hope in the public’s response. He highlighted the vocal protests by the people of Kashmir against the attack, marking the first time in 26 years that the region’s residents had united to condemn such violence. He said, “Violence and terrorism can only end when we are all united.” Abdullah urged that no steps or actions should be taken that would further divide the people, emphasizing the importance of unity in these difficult times.
Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Condemns the Attack
The Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary moved the resolution, expressing full support for the Union Government’s diplomatic actions following the attack. The resolution described the assault as an attack on the values of “Kashmiriyat,” the Constitution, and the region’s spirit of unity and harmony. It extended condolences to the families of the victims.
A Deadly Attack with National Repercussions
The Pahalgam attack is one of the deadliest in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 CRPF personnel. In response, India has taken firm actions against Pakistan, accusing it of supporting cross-border terrorism. The situation has further strained Indo-Pak relations and heightened tensions in the region.
