Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said he would not exploit the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, to demand statehood for Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking during a special session of the J&K Legislative Assembly, Abdullah rejected the idea of raising political demands at a time of national mourning. “I will not use this moment to demand statehood. After Pahalgam, with what face can I ask for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir? Meri kya itni sasti siyasat hai?” he said, emphasizing that while he remained committed to seeking statehood, now was not the time.
In an emotional address, Abdullah expressed profound regret for the tragedy, stating, “As the host, it was my duty to ensure the tourists returned safely. I couldn’t do it. I do not have the words to seek an apology.” He shared his anguish over the grief of families who lost loved ones, particularly mentioning children who lost their fathers and newlyweds who lost spouses.
However, Abdullah highlighted a rare positive sign: the widespread condemnation of the attack by the people of Kashmir. “For the first time in 26 years, I have seen the people of Jammu and Kashmir coming out condemning the attack, saying that it was not done in their name,” he said, stressing that unity was essential to ending violence and terrorism.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly passed a resolution condemning the Pahalgam terror attack and endorsing the diplomatic measures taken by the Union Government after the Cabinet Committee on Security meeting. The resolution described the attack as an assault on “Kashmiriyat,” the Constitution, and the spirit of peace and harmony.
The Pahalgam incident marks one of the deadliest terror attacks in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama strike. In response, India has implemented strong measures against Pakistan for its continued support of cross-border terrorism.