He also requested that the government hold discussions with all political parties to address the threat of terrorism, especially in light of the details emerging from this incident.
Published Apr 23, 2025 | 2:00 PM ⚊ Updated Apr 23, 2025 | 2:00 PM
Mallikarjun Kharge. (X)
Synopsis: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said the terrorist attack that happened in Pahalgam was a direct attack on India, and everyone should stand together to address the “cowardly attack”. Kharge also urged the government to take every possible step to retain tourists and ensure their safety.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said on Wednesday, 23 April, the terrorist attack that happened in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam was a direct attack on India, and everyone should stand together to address the “cowardly attack”.
“We must stand united in our fight against terrorism. This is a direct attack on the Indian state, and the entire nation is in shock. We must give a fitting response. In this response, we are all one — there must be no premature claims or mismanagement,” he said in a press conference in Bengaluru.
“I offer my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their loved ones and were affected by the attack,” Kharge said.
“This is a direct assault on the integrity and unity of India — the most brazen and outrageous attack by terrorists and separatists,” he added.
The attack marks one of the deadliest targeting of civilians in India in recent times. At least 28 people, most of them tourists, are feared to have been killed.
The attack took place in the picturesque Baisaran Valley in Anantnag district – popularly known as “mini-Switzerland” for its alpine meadows – sending shockwaves across the region. Several others are also injured.
The Congress chief said he has spoken to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is currently in Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other leaders.
“I have gathered substantial information, but it is not necessary to disclose all of it at this moment. I am here to express my deep condolences and strongly condemn this cowardly act of terrorism. The Home Minister assured me that action is being initiated in the affected area. The Congress Working Committee will meet tomorrow at 11 am at the AICC office in New Delhi to discuss this tragic incident,” he said.
“This is not a time for partisan politics. It is a time for collective efforts — to console those who have lost their loved ones and to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. I have also spoken to the bereaved families,” he added.
Kharge said the Karnataka government has deputed Labour Minister Santosh Lad to coordinate efforts to relocate tourists from the state.
“The minister personally met around 200 tourists from Karnataka, and travel arrangements are being made for their safe return. I have requested Omar Abdullah to make the necessary arrangements for tourists who are not in touch with their respective state governments. The home minister has assured me that all tourists will be taken care of,” he said.
He said the Congress party will fully cooperate with the Government of India to handle the situation.
Kharge also urged the government to take every possible step to retain tourists and ensure their safety.
“Tourism is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy. The people there depend heavily on the income generated by tourism. Omar Abdullah has expressed concern that their livelihood may collapse due to this incident,” he said.
“With the Amarnath Yatra fast approaching, it is imperative that the government takes necessary precautions. Pilgrims must be protected, and security must be significantly enhanced,” he added.
He also requested that the government hold discussions with all political parties to address the threat of terrorism, especially in light of the details emerging from this incident.
“We do not wish to politicise this tragedy. We must find solutions collectively, through unity and resolve. The Congress party is committed to cooperation and to uprooting terrorism and separatism. Our top leaders have made the ultimate sacrifice for this cause. We have been fighting this battle from the very beginning, and we will continue to do so,” Kharge said.
When asked about Pakistan’s involvement, and people were killed after asking their religion, he said, “This is not the time to find out lapses. It is the time to be with families and people who were killed. If an all-party meeting is convened, then we can address lapses and provide suggestions.”
He also said, “It’s been 22 hours and the Union government must not waste more time to hunt down the terrorists.”
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil with inputs from Rashmi Patil.)
