By The Sampadak Express
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a resolution condemning the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The House expressed deep anguish and reaffirmed its commitment to preserving communal harmony and peace across the region.
The resolution, moved by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary during a special session, was adopted by voice vote. At the start of proceedings, the Assembly observed a two-minute silence to honour the victims.”
The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly reaffirms its unwavering commitment to foster peace, development, and inclusive prosperity for all, and to defeat the nefarious designs of those trying to disrupt harmony,” the resolution read.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also holds the tourism portfolio, condemned the attack and admitted his failure in ensuring the safety of visiting tourists. “I had invited these people to Kashmir. It was my responsibility to send them back safely. I failed,” he said with visible emotion, recalling heart-wrenching scenes involving the victims.
Abdullah added that while security remains largely under central control, he wouldn’t use the incident to push political agendas like statehood. He highlighted the national impact of the attack and noted that such violence had not occurred in Pahalgam for over two decades. “We thought these incidents were behind us. Sadly, we were wrong,” he said.
Despite the tragedy, the Chief Minister found hope in the region’s spontaneous public response. “For the first time in years, protests were truly people-led—no political banners, just genuine grief and solidarity,” he noted. “This emerging unity must be nurtured.”
Deputy Chief Minister Choudhary described the attack as “barbaric and inhuman,” reiterating that it was a direct assault on Kashmiriyat and constitutional values. He praised the people of the region for their peaceful demonstrations and support to victims, reaffirming their commitment to communal harmony.
The resolution also paid tribute to Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a pony ride operator who sacrificed his life while trying to save tourists during the attack. “His courage embodies the spirit of Kashmir and will inspire future generations,” it stated.
The House supported the Centre’s diplomatic response and called for national unity in the face of attempts to divide the country. It appealed to all citizens, particularly the media, to act responsibly and avoid inflaming tensions.
The Assembly urged all states and Union territories to ensure the safety and dignity of Kashmiri students and residents across India, stressing the need to prevent discrimination or harassment.
Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather called on all legislators to work together to restore safety and revive confidence among tourists and locals alike. “We must ensure that the victims’ sacrifices are not in vain,” he said before adjourning the House sine die.
Congress Legislative Party leader G A Mir also condemned the attack, pledging full support to the government’s efforts to restore peace and security. “This cowardly act has united the nation in grief. We support all necessary measures to safeguard citizens,” he said.
The Assembly closed with a renewed call for unity, peace, and resilience in the face of adversity.
