Omar Abdullah Hosts Rahul Gandhi to Discuss Pahalgam Terror Attack Aftermath
Srinagar, April 25, 2025: In a significant meeting at his residence in Srinagar, Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, welcomed Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, along with senior Indian National Congress (INC) colleagues to address the fallout of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, claimed 26 lives, including 25 Indian tourists and one Nepali citizen, marking it as one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in the region in recent years.
Abdullah and Gandhi expressed a unified stance on the need to stand firm against terrorism and hate, emphasizing the importance of collective resolve in combating such threats. “We shared the same sentiment about the significance of remaining united, standing firm against hate, and combating terror with unwavering determination and unity,” Abdullah stated, highlighting the discussions’ focus on fostering solidarity in the wake of the tragedy.
The meeting comes amid heightened tensions and a robust response from the Indian government. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who cut short his Saudi Arabia visit to address the crisis, chaired a Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting on April 23, announcing stringent measures, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and the closure of the Attari border crossing. The Resistance Front (TRF), a shadow group of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), claimed responsibility for the attack, prompting India to point to “cross-border linkages” without officially naming a group.
Rahul Gandhi also visited victims and families affected by the attack, reinforcing the Congress party’s commitment to fighting terrorism. The INC announced nationwide candlelight marches on April 25 to honor the victims and condemn the attack, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and other leaders condemning the incident during an all-party meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
As security forces continue a manhunt for the perpetrators, with a Rs. 20 lakh reward offered for information leading to their capture, the nation mourns the loss of lives. The attack has sparked widespread outrage, with public figures, including Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, labeling it a “revival of Hindu genocide,” given the targeting of Hindu tourists.
The discussions between Abdullah and Gandhi emphasizes a call for unity and resilience, as India navigates the complex security and diplomatic challenges posed by the Pahalgam tragedy.
