Nearly three days after the brutal terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, where 26 tourists were killed, Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, arrived in Srinagar to assess the situation and express solidarity with the victims.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Rahul Gandhi met Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at his residence in Srinagar on Friday. He was also briefed by senior officials, including the Lieutenant Governor, about the ongoing investigation and the government's response to the attack.
During his visit, Rahul Gandhi went to a local hospital where he met one of the survivors injured in the terrorist attack. Speaking to the media afterward, he stated that the objective of the attack was to create divisions within Indian society.
“This has been a terrible tragedy,” Gandhi said. “I came here to understand what has happened and to offer help in any way possible. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have strongly condemned this horrific act and have extended their full support to the nation during this difficult time. I met one of the injured individuals today. My heartfelt condolences go out to all those who have lost loved ones. The entire country is standing together in this moment of grief. We had a meeting with the government yesterday as well.”
He further emphasised that the entire opposition has condemned the terrorist attack, and they are united in supporting any action the government chooses to take in response.
“We are ready to stand behind the government in any steps it takes. The motive behind the attack is clearly to divide our society, and it is essential that every Indian remain united so we can defeat the agenda of these terrorists.”
Rahul Gandhi also expressed concern over reports of Kashmiris being targeted in other parts of the country following the attack. “It is deeply saddening to see that some people are attacking my brothers and sisters from Kashmir elsewhere in the country. At this time, it is more important than ever for all of us to come together, to stand in solidarity, and to reject hate in all forms,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming his and his party’s full support to the administration of Jammu and Kashmir. “I also met the Chief Minister and the Lieutenant Governor, who briefed me in detail about the incident. I assured both of them that my party and I will extend full support in dealing with this crisis and fighting terrorism.”
The visit underscores the Opposition’s commitment to national unity and a collective stance against terrorism in the wake of one of the deadliest attacks in the region in recent years.
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