During a one-day sitting of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly on Monday, the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah underlined the need for the support of the people in the battle against terrorism. According to him, terrorism can be overcome only if the people of Jammu and Kashmir take an active part in it. But he warned against taking any measure that may isolate the locals and trigger fresh unrest. He also indicated that he would not take this tragic occasion to call for statehood for the area.
“Militancy or terrorism will end when people are on our side. With the people’s indignation against the terror, this is the start of its end if we make the right moves. We must not take a single step that will isolate people. We cannot intimidate a terrorist with a gun, but we can bring an end to militancy if people are on our side. I believe that time has arrived,” Abdullah stated in his speech.
#PahalgamTerrorAttack | J&K CM Omar Abdullah says, “I will not use this moment to demand statehood. After Pahalgam, with what face can I ask for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir? Meri kya itni sasti siyasat hai? We have talked about statehood in the past and will do so in the… pic.twitter.com/kZqXSRxLmY
— ANI (@ANI) April 28, 2025
Omar Abdullah Reflects on Terror Attack in Pahalgam
Abdullah also emphasized the significance of the public reaction to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. He noted that the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar held a two-minute silence for the first time before Friday prayers to pay tribute to the victims of the attack. He emphasized that this public reaction was a symbol of unity against terrorism, and it was essential to consolidate such positive changes in society.
“We can interpret its meaning. We will attempt to make this change stronger,” Abdullah said.
Omar Abdullah Refuses to Use Tragedy for Statehood Demands
Despite the constant political debate regarding Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, Omar Abdullah clarified that this was not the appropriate time to seek statehood. He said that, considering the recent terrorist strike in Pahalgam, it would not be proper to bring up the question of statehood during mourning over the deaths.
“I will not take this opportunity to ask for statehood. After Pahalgam, with what face can we ask for the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir? We did discuss statehood earlier and will discuss it in the future as well, but it will be humiliating on my part if I go and explain to the central government that 26 people lost their lives and now grant us statehood,” he said.
Pahalgam Terror Attack Tragedy
The Pahalgam terror attack tragedy on April 22 resulted in the death of 26 individuals, some of whom were tourists who were either on vacation or honeymoon. The terrorists targeted innocent civilians and asked them about their religion before firing at them. The attack has shocked the country and elicited widespread condemnation.
Abdullah also uttered his deep remorse at not being in a position to provide the safety of the tourists, showing understanding of his responsibility as a host. “I did not know how to apologize to the families of the martyrs. Being the host, it was my responsibility to bring the tourists back safely. I failed to do so. I do not possess the words to ask for an apology,” he added.
Farooq Abdullah Demands Accountability from PM Modi
In the meantime, Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) leader Farooq Abdullah demanded Prime Minister Narendra Modi speak up about the situation following the Pahalgam terror attack. When questioned regarding India’s reaction to Pakistan, Abdullah replied, “Ask the Prime Minister what answer should be given to Pakistan.”
After the attack, India issued several punitive measures against Pakistan, such as downgrading diplomatic relations and suspending the Indus Waters Treaty. These actions demonstrate the country’s position regarding cross-border terrorism and the requirement for more stringent action to secure the safety and security of its people.
