Srinagar, April 28, 2025 – The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly began its session today with a somber two-minute silence, paying tribute to the 26 innocent lives lost in the Pahalgam terror attack at Baisaran meadow on April 22, 2025. The gesture, a poignant expression of collective grief, underscored the region’s resolve to stand united against terrorism and honor the memory of the victims, including 25 tourists and a local hero, Syed Adil Hussain Shah.
The attack, carried out by four terrorists, including three Pakistan-based operatives linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, targeted holidaymakers in Anantnag district, marking one of the deadliest assaults in the Kashmir Valley since the 2019 Pulwama attack. The Assembly’s tribute, led by Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather, reflected the shared sorrow of lawmakers and citizens, with members across party lines condemning the violence as an assault on Kashmiriyat and humanity.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, addressing the session, described the silence as a “solemn reminder” of the tragedy and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring justice. “The lives lost in Pahalgam will not be forgotten,” Abdullah said. “This attack strengthens our unwavering resolve to eradicate terrorism and restore peace.” He praised the bravery of Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony operator who sacrificed his life attempting to save tourists, and called for measures to support the victims’ families.
The Assembly unanimously passed a resolution condemning the attack, terming it a “heinous act” aimed at destabilizing Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism-driven economy. The resolution supported the National Investigation Agency’s ongoing probe, which has uncovered critical evidence, including a tree-top video and an Army officer’s testimony, implicating local operative Adil Hussain Thokar and his Pakistani accomplices. It also endorsed the Union Government’s diplomatic actions, such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and imposing visa restrictions on Pakistani nationals.
Lawmakers, including PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and People’s Conference leader Sajad Lone, emphasized the need for unity to prevent further alienation of Kashmiris while combating terrorism. The silence was followed by discussions on strengthening security measures and reviving tourism, with assurances from the government to protect visitors and locals alike.
The Pahalgam terror attack has sparked nationwide protests and global condemnation, with leaders from the United States, Canada, and Thailand expressing solidarity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Mann Ki Baat, vowed a “harshest response” to the perpetrators, while Rahul Gandhi, after meeting Abdullah, called for collective action against violence.
The Assembly’s tribute, coupled with its resolute stance, sends a powerful message of solidarity and determination. As Jammu and Kashmir navigates the aftermath of this tragedy, the two-minute silence stands as a symbol of mourning and a call to action for a peaceful, terror-free future.