The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution express- ing profound shock and an- guish over the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, reaffirming its com- mitment to defeating any designs aimed at disturbing communal harmony and halting progress.
The resolution, moved by Deputy Chief Minister Su-rinder Choudhary during a special session, was adopted by a voice vote after House members observed a two-minute silence in memory of the victims.
“The Legislative Assembly of Jammu and Kashmir re-affirms its unwavering com-mitment to foster an environ-ment of peace, development, and inclusive prosperity, and to resolutely defeat the nefarious designs of those seeking to disturb communal harmony and national prog- ress,” the resolution stated. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the tourism portfolio, ex- pressed deep remorse over the incident.
As the Chief Minister and Tourism Minister, I invited these tourists here. It was my responsibility to ensure their safe return. Ifailed them,” he said with visible emotion. Abdullah acknowledged that security is not solely the elected government’s re- sponsibility but emphasized that he would not exploit the tragedy to press for statehood restoration. Describing the spontaneous public outrage across Kashmir — without political banners or organised marches — Abdullah said, “This unity and compassion must be nurtured and encouraged.”
Choudhary, while moving the resolution, called the attack a “barbaric and inhuman” assault on innocent civilians, an attack on Kashmiriyat, constitutional values, and the spirit of unity. The resolution paid tribute to Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony ride operator who laid down his life while trying to save tourists. His sacrifice, it stated, embodies the spirit of Kashmir and serves as an enduring inspiration.
The House commended the people of Jammu and Kashmir for their peaceful protests and spontaneous support for the victims, highlighting their commitment to communal harmony and the rule of law. Further, the Assembly endorsed diplomatic measures taken by the Centre following the Cabinet Committee on Security’s emergency meeting. It also urged media outlets to avoid inflaming passions irresponsibly and appealed to states and Union Territories to safeguard the dignity and well-being of Kashmiri students and citizens across India. Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather emphasized unity and the need for concrete measures to enhance the safety of tourists and non-locals
