On April 22, 2025, the serene Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir was shattered by a brutal terrorist attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists and injured over 20 others. The assailants, armed with AK-47s and M4 carbines, targeted visitors in a calculated assault that has been described as the deadliest in India since the 2008 Mumbai attacks.
In the wake of this tragedy, Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party leader, Pawan Kalyan, attended a condolence meeting in Pahalgam. Expressing his anguish, Kalyan reportedly stated, “If you have so much love for Pakistan, go there,” directing his ire towards those he perceives as sympathizers of Pakistan amidst ongoing tensions. This remark underscores the heightened emotions and nationalistic sentiments prevalent in the aftermath of the attack.
The attack was initially claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, citing opposition to Indian government policies in Kashmir. However, TRF later retracted its claim. Eyewitness accounts reveal that the militants singled out victims based on their religion, asking them to recite Islamic verses before executing them. Among the deceased was a local Muslim pony operator who attempted to confront the attackers.
The incident has intensified Indo-Pak relations, with India accusing Pakistan of supporting cross-border terrorism. In response, India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and closed its borders. Pakistan denied involvement and retaliated by suspending the Simla Agreement and closing its airspace to Indian flights. Skirmishes along the Line of Control have since escalated.
Internationally, the attack drew widespread condemnation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that attacks against civilians are unacceptable under any circumstances. Countries including the United States, United Kingdom, and neighboring nations expressed solidarity with India and condemned the violence.
Domestically, political leaders across the spectrum have voiced their outrage. President Droupadi Murmu labeled the attack as “dastardly and inhuman,” while Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured that those responsible would be brought to justice. Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, extended support to the government’s efforts in addressing the threat.
Pawan Kalyan’s statement reflects the broader national sentiment of frustration and anger towards perceived external threats and internal sympathizers. His remarks also highlight the complex interplay between regional politics and national security concerns in India.
As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, there is a collective call for unity and decisive action against terrorism. The Pahalgam attack serves as a grim reminder of the persistent challenges India faces in ensuring the safety and security of its citizens amidst regional tensions.Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1
