Pahalgam Assault: Kharge Calls for Unified Response Against Terrorism, Proposes All-Party Assembly
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Synopsis
In light of the Pahalgam attack that tragically took the lives of 26 tourists, AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge has urged the government to utilize all resources to confront terrorism. He emphasizes the need for unity among political parties and suggests an all-party meeting to discuss the urgent issue of national security.
Key Takeaways
- Mallikarjun Kharge urges full government strength against terrorists.
- Calls for an all-party meeting to address terrorism.
- Stresses unity to combat threats to national integrity.
- Recommends enhanced security for Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.
- Condemns the Pahalgam attack as a direct assault on India.
Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) All India Congress Committee (AICC) President Mallikarjun Kharge has called upon the central government to mobilize its full capacity to track down the terrorists behind the Pahalgam assault that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists.
He further insisted, “We also anticipate the government to engage in discussions with all political factions and confront the issue of terrorism with a sense of unity.”
Speaking at a press conference at the Congress headquarters in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Kharge stated, “At this critical juncture, we stand shoulder to shoulder with the government. United, we must combat such incidents, terrorists, and any entities that threaten us. Whether they are terrorists or other organizations, we will remain steadfast in safeguarding the nation, its unity, and its integrity. We urge the government to utilize all its resources to identify and eliminate the terrorists.”
“It has been nearly 22 hours since the occurrence. The government must employ every possible measure to reassure tourists and instill confidence in the security protocols in Jammu and Kashmir,” he demanded.
“This represents a direct assault on the Indian state. The entire country is reeling from shock. A Pakistani terrorist organization has taken responsibility. We must respond appropriately. In this regard, we stand united and will collaborate. However, there must be tangible action, not mere declarations without comprehensive planning and execution,” the Congress chief asserted.
“I have received substantial information, but at this moment, it is unnecessary to unveil everything. I am here to vehemently denounce this cowardly act of terrorism. Home Minister Amit Shah has informed me that decisive action will be undertaken in the affected region,” Kharge stated.
Referring to the imminent Amarnath Yatra, he mentioned, “The yatra is just days away. A similar incident occurred during the yatra previously. The government, along with state authorities, must enforce all necessary precautions. Pilgrims heading to Amarnath should be afforded robust protection, and security measures must be reinforced.”
“This unfortunate incident transpired in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The heinous murder of innocent, unsuspecting tourists by terrorists on Tuesday around 2:30 p.m. has profoundly hurt, shocked, and saddened us all. The Congress party unequivocally condemns this act of terror and holds those accountable in the strongest terms. This is a direct attack on the unity and integrity of our nation. Since the horrific Chittisinghpura massacre in 2000, this is among the most audacious and shocking assaults by terrorists and separatists,” Kharge remarked.
“We firmly reiterate that those who slay unarmed and innocent civilians cannot be regarded as human. Late yesterday evening, I conversed with Union Home Minister Amit Shah while he was in Kashmir. I also spoke with Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, along with the local Pradesh Congress Committee President and our party’s Leader of Opposition there,” he noted.
“In such circumstances, it is not about who performed better. We are all united. We are fully committed to collaborating with the Government of India,” Kharge maintained.
“Do not extend any sympathy, and without delay, if decisive action is undertaken, it would convey a message to the entire nation. Fear will instill itself in terrorists who might be in Pakistan or elsewhere,” Kharge urged.
“This is not a time for partisan politics. It is a moment for collective determination to ensure justice for those who perished and for their mourning families. Tourists from various regions of the nation were present,” he emphasized.
“Once the necessary actions are executed and complete information is available, my appeal to the Government of India is to convene an all-party meeting to seek suggestions. This transcends political matters, and we do not wish to politicize the tragedy of our unarmed citizens being killed. The government should promptly arrange a meeting so that all parties can present their inputs. Whatever is beneficial can be adopted, and what is not feasible can be set aside,” he proposed.
“But the sentiment must be that we all stand united. All parties support the government and will cooperate,” he insisted.
“The Congress party is dedicated to coordinating and assisting the government in dismantling terrorism at its core. We have consistently opposed terrorism and separatism. Our prominent leaders have even sacrificed their lives in this fight. We have always championed the unity of the nation, and we will persist in doing so,” he concluded.
