Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 28 (ANI): Former Union Minister and Congress leader Saifuddin Soz emphasized the need for dialogue between India and Pakistan, in light of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. Soz stated that if Pakistan denies involvement in the attack, India should temporarily accept that argument and allow the investigating agencies to proceed with their work.
“What happened in Pahalgam was tragic and unacceptable. Every Indian should align with the stance that Prime Minister Modi has adopted. If Pakistan says it is not involved, let us accept that argument for now and rely on our investigating agencies, who are better equipped to determine the truth. India and Pakistan are neighbors; the neighborhood cannot be changed, no matter what we do. Ultimately, dialogue, not military action, will pave the way for resolution between the two countries,” Soz remarked in an interview with ANI.
Congress leader Saifuddin Soz further underscored that Prime Minister Modi’s strong statements on the attack should be taken as the guiding direction for the nation, adding that decisions on future actions would be made by the Cabinet, which operates within India’s democratic framework.
“We must support what Prime Minister Modi has said on this matter. His words provide guidance for us all. The Prime Minister is the leader of the nation, and the Cabinet will decide on the course of action. We are a democratic country, and whatever the Cabinet decides will be the action taken,” Soz explained.
On the topic of the India-Pakistan water-sharing agreement, Soz voiced his opinion against disrupting the natural course of water flow, stressing that the existing treaty had served both countries well even during times of conflict. “I don’t think India should go that far. The treaty has worked even during wars and offers benefits to both countries. If we block the water, it could inundate Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir. Water should flow to the sea through its natural course,” he asserted.
Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Ravi Shankar Prasad criticized Congress for allegedly making inconsistent and disparaging statements regarding the Pahalgam attack. He specifically called out Congress leaders, including Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and party spokesperson RV Timapur, for remarks that appeared to downplay the situation or criticize calls for military retaliation.
Prasad pointed out that while Congress officially stated its support for the government, certain leaders made statements that seemed to call for restraint or even suggested that terrorists did not discriminate based on religion when selecting victims.
“I remember when the 26/11 attacks occurred, I received clear instructions from my party to maintain unity and support the government. Now, we hear some Congress leaders making statements that undermine this collective stance. Why are they saying this? What is their agenda?” Prasad questioned.
Siddaramaiah had previously posted on X on April 26, urging against declaring war on Pakistan following terrorist attacks and recommending that security measures in Kashmir be tightened instead. He emphasized the need for peace and suggested that the central government focus on increasing security in the region to ensure stability.
The tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 targeted tourists, including one Nepalese national, resulting in the loss of 26 lives. Following the attack, India has implemented strong measures against Pakistan in response to its alleged involvement in supporting cross-border terrorism. (ANI)
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