Pahalgam Terror Incident: Nirmala Sitharaman Shortens US-Peru Visit
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Synopsis
In response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has shortened her US and Peru visit to return and support the affected communities. She condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with the victims' families.
Key Takeaways
- Nirmala Sitharaman cuts short her international visit.
- The attack occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
- Security measures in J&K have been intensified.
- The attack is linked to the Resistance Front, affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
- Condolences were expressed for the victims and their families.
New Delhi, April 23 (NationPress) Following the tragic and deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has decided to shorten her official visit to the USA and Peru, returning home to support her constituents during this difficult time, as stated by the Ministry of Finance on Wednesday.
The Finance Minister began her journey to the USA and Peru on April 20, aiming to promote India's economic dynamism while the nation works towards a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the USA.
In a post on the social media platform X, the Ministry announced, "Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Smt. @nsitharaman is cutting short her official visit to the USA-Peru."
Further elaborating, the ministry added, "She is taking the earliest available flight back to India to be with our people in this difficult and tragic time."
In a statement on X, the Finance Minister expressed, "Heart-breaking news from Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. No words to express grief. I condemn the terrorist act."
She extended her condolences to all families and friends affected by the tragedy, offering sincere prayers for the swift recovery of the injured. Echoing the sentiments of PM @narendramodi, she emphasized, "Those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice...they will not be spared! Their evil agenda will never succeed. Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakable and will only grow stronger."
The brutal assault occurred on Tuesday in the picturesque Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, where terrorists allegedly emerged from dense forest areas and unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on a group of unsuspecting tourists.
Preliminary intelligence suggests that the attack was orchestrated by the Pakistan-based terror group, The Resistance Front, a known affiliate of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response to the attack, security agencies have heightened vigilance across Jammu and Kashmir, declaring a high alert and increasing troop presence in vulnerable areas.
