D.K. Shivakumar: Kashmir Terror Attack Shocks the Globe

Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday described the attack on innocent tourists in Kashmir's Pahalgam as a profound shock to the entire globe. He vehemently condemned this atrocious act of terrorism and insisted that the terrorists and their affiliated organizations must be eradicated.

"This incident demands our utmost attention. The Central government must respond with vigilance and accountability. Upon learning of the incident, a team headed by Minister Santosh Lad was promptly dispatched to J&K on behalf of the state government," said Shivakumar, who also holds the position of state Congress chief, during a media briefing at the party office.

"It is genuinely alarming that a terrorist attack has occurred under the guise of religion. The Congress party unequivocally condemns this act. Our party has made it clear that it stands united with the Central government in this critical situation. The Central government must dismantle these terrorist groups. Decisive action must be taken against all such organizations, irrespective of their country of origin; these entities must be annihilated. There must be a restoration of peace in Kashmir," he asserted.

"This is unprecedented in my experience; witnessing violence solely based on religion is shocking. The trajectory of our society is distressing. This is intolerable. I pray for the peaceful repose of the departed souls and for their families to find strength during this tragic time," he added.

"I have personally reached out to the families of the victims. I have communicated with the district minister of Shivamogga and police officials, instructing them to connect with the bereaved families," he stated.

Shivakumar pointed out that this incident will affect foreign relations, tourism, and the citizens of our nation, and therefore, the Central government should convene an all-party meeting.

When asked if he perceived this as an intelligence failure, he responded: "I will refrain from commenting on that. Our intention is not to politicize this matter. The Central government must call for an all-party meeting to address the situation. Safeguarding our nation is our paramount concern."

Shivakumar also extended his condolences through a phone call to the family of Manjunath, a Shivamogga resident who was killed in the attack in front of his wife and son.

In a phone conversation with Dr. Ravikiran, Manjunath's brother-in-law, on Wednesday morning, the Deputy Chief Minister stated: "We stand with you. Our government shares in your family's sorrow. Think of me as part of your family - please remain strong."

Simultaneously, he also communicated with the Shivamogga district in-charge minister and local administration representatives, directing them to visit Manjunath's family personally to offer condolences.