Srinagar, April 25, 2025 – Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, during his visit to Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, strongly condemned the targeting of Kashmiris and others in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. Emphasizing unity, Gandhi called for a collective stand against terrorism to ensure lasting peace in the region. His remarks came after meetings with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, where he was briefed on the security situation following the tragic attack.
“It is sad to see that some people are attacking my brothers and sisters from Kashmir and the rest of the country. I think it’s very important that all of us stand together, stand united, and fight this nasty action that has been taken and defeat terrorism once and for all,” Rahul Gandhi stated. He assured the Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor of the Congress party’s full support in addressing the crisis and restoring stability.
The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, at Baisaran meadow claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and injured several others, marking one of the deadliest attacks in the valley in recent years. The incident, attributed to groups like The Resistance Front linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, has sparked national outrage and prompted India to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty and scale back diplomatic ties with Pakistan.
Gandhi’s visit included a stop at the B B Cantt Military Hospital in Srinagar, where he met with those injured in the attack, expressing solidarity and wishing them a speedy recovery. He also engaged with local Congress leaders and representatives from trade and tourism sectors to discuss the attack’s impact on Kashmir’s economy and morale. His presence in Srinagar, after cutting short a US trip, underscores his commitment to supporting the region during this challenging time.
The Congress leader reiterated the opposition’s unified stance against terrorism, as expressed during an all-party meeting in New Delhi on April 24, where he affirmed full support for government actions to counter terrorism. Gandhi’s call for unity addresses concerns about reported backlash against Kashmiris, urging the nation to stand together to defeat the terrorism ecosystem.
Jammu and Kashmir’s administration, backed by enhanced security measures from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Armed Police Forces, is working to ensure safety for residents and visitors. Gandhi’s visit reinforces the message of resilience and solidarity, aligning with efforts to preserve Kashmir’s cultural heritage and hospitality while advancing the vision of a peaceful, developed India.