Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) [India], April 23 (ANI): In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the life of a native of Ernakulam, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has instructed the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (NORKA) Roots to establish a dedicated help desk to assist Keralites currently in the region.
The Chief Minister expressed his grief, stating, “The news of the demise of a person from Ernakulam is extremely painful. His family will be brought home safely, and all necessary arrangements will be made by the government.” He also directed NORKA Roots to ensure that necessary assistance is provided to all Malayalis who had traveled to Jammu and Kashmir for tourism.
The help desk, launched by NORKA Roots, is designed to offer critical assistance, timely services, and up-to-date information to Keralites residing in Kashmir. Additionally, those stranded or concerned about relatives in the area can contact the NORKA Global Contact Centre via the toll-free number 1800 425 3939 or the missed call service at +91 88020 12345.
The Chief Minister further directed Kerala House in New Delhi to ensure necessary arrangements and facilities for those needing support during transit or evacuation.
Judges of the Kerala High Court, Justice Anil K Narendran, Justice P G Ajithkumar, and Justice Girish, who were on a personal visit to Jammu and Kashmir, have confirmed that they are safe and are staying at a hotel in Srinagar. They are expected to return to Kerala on Thursday. The Chief Minister instructed Kerala House to make the necessary arrangements in Delhi for their transit as well.
The terror attack in Pahalgam, which took place on Tuesday, has deeply shaken Kashmir and the entire nation. The attack, which targeted innocent tourists, is one of the deadliest since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. In the aftermath, Union Home Minister Amit Shah paid his respects to the victims in a poignant ceremony outside the Police Control Room in Srinagar on Wednesday.
Following the attack, security forces have intensified operations to locate the terrorists responsible. Security across the region has been heightened, with visuals from Pahalgam showing deserted streets in the normally bustling tourist area. Several organizations have also called for a Jammu bandh to mourn the victims and condemn the violence. (ANI)
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