Kashmir's Economy in Crisis Following Pahalgam Terror Attack, Says Kharge Citing Omar Abdullah

Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge stated on Wednesday that Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of J&K, informed him that the economy of Kashmir has faced a severe collapse due to the recent Pahalgam terror attack.

“As the summer season commences, this period typically marks an influx of tourists to the area. Tourism serves as the principal source of income for J&K, particularly in Kashmir. The region relies heavily on tourism revenue. Omar Abdullah expressed that this year's economic situation is dire. He emphasized that tourism is their primary means of livelihood, and they are heartbroken by this incident,” Kharge mentioned during a press conference at the Congress Headquarters in Bengaluru.

Kharge extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of those affected by this tragic event.

“It is crucial to remember that the Government of India administers this region - it remains a Union Territory and has not yet achieved statehood. Thus, the responsibility falls more heavily on the Government of India,” he remarked.

Kharge noted that among the deceased was Manjunath from Shivamogga, a prominent builder, while Bharat Bhushan from Bengaluru, originally from Haveri, also lost his life.

“I communicated with both their spouses, Pallavi and Sujata. They assured me they are safe for now but are in mourning and extremely concerned about their future,” he related.

The Congress President mentioned that the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee has assigned Labour Minister Santhosh Lad to the affected area.

“I spoke with him; he has met with the bereaved families and is also engaging with around 200 tourists from Karnataka currently residing in various hotels. Following his meetings, he is facilitating flights for their return to Bengaluru or their respective hometowns,” he elaborated.

Kharge has also urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to collaborate with other state governments to provide support for their citizens.

He added that the Union Home Minister assured him that the government would ensure care for all those impacted.

“I spoke to him (Amit Shah) late last night at 10:40 pm,” Kharge noted.

Regarding Prime Minister Modi, Kharge mentioned that he was overseas. “We must remain united; this is not the moment to discuss attendance,” he stated.

On the topic of security lapses, he remarked: “I am not here to identify flaws. These matters can be addressed at a later time during the all-party meeting. For now, we are in shock and aim to address immediate concerns. Discussions on security failures can occur at an appropriate time.”

Kharge informed that the Congress Working Committee will convene on Thursday at the AICC office in New Delhi to deliberate on the matter.

At least 26 tourists were killed on Tuesday when assailants opened fire on innocent civilians in Baisaran, Jammu and Kashmir.

Eyewitnesses reported that a group of heavily armed terrorists emerged from nearby forests and indiscriminately fired upon civilians, the majority of whom were tourists.

Baisran, a small meadow located three to four km from the Pahalgam market, is accessible by horseback due to the absence of motorable roads.

Prime Minister Modi returned to New Delhi on Wednesday morning, shortening his trip to Saudi Arabia due to the terror incident.

Upon arrival, he held a brief meeting with NSA Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri at the airport. PM Modi condemned the terror attack on Tuesday, asserting that those responsible will face justice and reaffirming India’s “unwavering” commitment to combat terrorism.