CM Omar, Mehbooba, others condemn Pahalgam terror attack
Srinagar, Apr 22: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti, and several other political parties and leaders on Tuesday expressed shock over terrorist attack on tourists in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam. The leaders condemned the attack in strongest words and expressed sympathies to the families of the victims.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah termed the attack “an abomination”, saying the perpetrators of the attack are animals and inhuman.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) he said: “I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased”.
I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman & worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased. I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo…
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) April 22, 2025
Abdullah said he has spoken to his college and health minister Sakina Itoo who has moved to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured.
“I’ve spoken to my colleague @sakinaitoo & she has moved to the hospital to oversee arrangements for the injured. I’ll be flying back to Srinagar immediately”, he said on X.
Former chief minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also denounced the attack.
“I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which tragically killed five and injured several as being reported for now. Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced”.
“Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply concerning. A thorough investigation is needed to bring the perpetrators to justice and examine potential security lapses. Ensuring visitor safety is paramount, and steps must be taken to prevent future attacks,” she said and added, “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families”.
I strongly condemn the cowardly attack on tourists in Pahalgam, which tragically killed five and injured several as being reported for now . Such violence is unacceptable and must be denounced.
Historically, Kashmir has welcomed tourists warmly, making this rare incident deeply…
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 22, 2025
The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) also strongly denounced the cowardly militant attack on tourists in Pahalgam, terming the incident as the most unfortunate and shameful act.
“The rank and file of the J&K Pradesh Congress Committee led by President Tariq Hameed Karra strongly denounced the militant attack on tourists in Basiran area of Pahalgam in Anantnag District in which several tourists were injured leaving reportedly one dead. It was very shocking and anguishing to learn about the mindless and dastardly militant attack on innocent tourists, such incidents are highly deplorable and have no place in a civilized society, JKPCC said in a statement said.
“Adding that the incident has put a big question mark on the tall claims of Centre Govt with regard to the security situation in J&K, JKPCC strongly urged that the perpetrators of this heinous crime must be identified & given exemplary punishment,” JKPCC said.
The party expressed solidarity with the family of the deceased person and prayed for speedy recovery of the injured.
MLA Handwara and Peoples Conference President Sajad Lone has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, characterizing it as a “dastardly and cowardly” act aimed at destabilizing Kashmir's tourism industry and economy.
“For decades, we have been identified as great hosts. We have a history of hospitality. And some cowardly terrorists want to destroy it all,” Lone stated, emphasizing Kashmir's long-standing tradition of welcoming visitors.
In his statement, he noted the cruelty of the timing, saying, “After years of struggle, our tourism industry was finally stirring back to life. People had begun to dream again — to rebuild. And here come these ugly villains to crush hope.”
Lone pointed to the economic motivations behind such attacks, asserting, “Make no mistake. These terror attacks are aimed at yet again disempowering us economically.”
He further portrayed those responsible for the violence as enemies of the Kashmiri people themselves.
“Those who do this are the worst enemies of Kashmiris. They defile our history of hospitality, smearing our glorious past. And they are a curse on our present. They are enemies of our children, of our young generation,” he declared.
Calling for unity against terrorism, Lone urged, “We have to unitedly send a message that there is no tolerance for terror. Let us live our lives in peace and economic dignity.”
He concluded with a passionate plea directed at those perpetrating violence: “Please get out of our lives. These tourists are our revered guests.”
Former MLA Pahalgam and General Secretary Apni Party Rafi Ahmad Mir has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, calling it a heinous act that goes against the spirit of peace and harmony that the region stands for.
Mir, who is currently stationed in Pahalgam, expressed deep anguish over the incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. He emphasized that such acts of violence have no place in society and must be condemned by one and all.
“The people of Pahalgam have always upheld the values of peace and brotherhood. This attack is not only an act of terror but an attempt to disrupt the harmony of the region,” Mir said.
He further stated that the people of Pahalgam and the local trade fraternity do not stand for such violence and unequivocally reject any attempts to destabilize the area. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time,” he added.
Mir hoped that those responsible for the attack, are held accountable. “It is important that justice is delivered swiftly. The perpetrators must face the law,” he said.
