Omar Abdullah Condemns Attack on Tourists
Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir), April 22 (ANI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, where several civilians were reportedly injured after terrorists opened fire on Tuesday afternoon. While the official casualty count is yet to be confirmed, the CM described the incident as one of the worst attacks on civilians in recent years.
“The death toll is still being ascertained, so I don’t want to get into those details,” Abdullah stated. “This attack is much larger than anything we’ve seen directed at civilians in recent years.”
Deeply shaken, the CM called the act “an abomination,” expressing his outrage in no uncertain terms.
“I’m shocked beyond belief. This attack on our visitors is an abomination. The perpetrators of this attack are animals, inhuman, and worthy of contempt. No words of condemnation are enough. I send my sympathies to the families of the deceased.”
He added that arrangements were being made at local hospitals to treat the injured. Senior leader Sakina Itoo has reportedly moved to oversee operations at the hospital, and the Chief Minister himself is flying back to Srinagar to monitor the situation firsthand.
The attack has drawn condemnation from political leaders across party lines, who stressed its implications on regional peace and the tourism-driven economy of Kashmir.
Congress leader Vikar Rasool Wani emphasized the economic impact, saying:
“Why are they attacking the tourists? The economy is totally dependent on tourism. This is part of a big conspiracy… the government must investigate.”
National Conference spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar called it a “dark day” for Kashmir, stating:
“The tourism season was just about to begin, and now this. Kashmir is known for hospitality—we unequivocally condemn this attack.”
BJP leader Ravinder Raina repeated earlier remarks, blaming “Pakistani terrorists” for targeting unarmed civilians.
“These cowardly terrorists cannot face our brave soldiers, so they attack innocent tourists. They will not be spared.”
Security forces, along with Jammu and Kashmir Police, rushed to the location and have sealed the area. A full-fledged search operation is underway, and all exit routes are under tight surveillance.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the valley, particularly with the tourism season set to pick up. Authorities are expected to release an official statement on the number of casualties once the situation is fully assessed. (ANI)
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