Centre Committed to Strong Action Against Pahalgam Terror Incident: Pralhad Joshi
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Synopsis
Union Minister Pralhad Joshi emphasized the government's determination to act decisively against the Pahalgam attack perpetrators. He underscored the importance of peace in J&K and the impact of terrorism on tourism. Arrangements are being made for the safe return of Kannadigas affected by the attack.
Key Takeaways
- Union government committed to strong action against Pahalgam attack.
- Tourism in J&K has seen significant growth.
- Special flight services arranged for safe return of Kannadigas.
- Directives issued to prevent airline price hikes.
- Former PM expresses condolences to victims' families.
Bengaluru, April 23 (NationPress) Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi stated on Wednesday that the Union government is resolute in its commitment to take decisive action against those responsible for the Pahalgam attack.
“PM Modi has enforced stringent measures nationwide, particularly in the Valley, to combat terrorism. Consequently, significant terrorist activities have been absent in the country since 2019. The Central government regards the Pahalgam terrorist attack with utmost seriousness and is dedicated to taking robust action against it,” the Union Minister declared during a press briefing.
He highlighted that such terrorist acts aim to disrupt peace and harm the tourism sector in J&K.
“J&K is considered the crown of India. Under PM Modi's leadership, the central government has transformed it into a prominent tourism destination. The region, often compared to Switzerland in beauty, has experienced a remarkable influx of tourists,” he asserted.
He further noted that in the past five to six years, tourism in J&K has achieved unprecedented growth, becoming a vital source of income for local residents.
“Elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies have all occurred without incident. The development initiatives from the central government have incited the ire of terrorists, which is why we have witnessed these tragic events,” he stated.
Joshi also mentioned that all essential measures are in place to ensure the safe return of Kannadigas visiting Kashmir following the recent attack.
The minister reported that he has maintained consistent communication with the J&K L-G and relevant officials since Tuesday night to facilitate the safe return of Kannadigas to their hometowns.
“We have made arrangements for the safe return of all Kannadigas. A special flight service has been organized, with flights currently being arranged to transport tourists to Mumbai and Delhi. In the next two days, all tourists will be safely brought home,” he stated.
He confirmed that three individuals from Karnataka were killed and two others injured in the attack.
“We are making arrangements to transport the bodies of the deceased, the injured, their families, and other tourists back to their hometowns,” he added.
Additional flight services have been arranged to assist with this process.
Many individuals from Karnataka who were at the Pahalgam tourist site have expressed their intention to return to the state. In response, a special flight service has been activated to facilitate their return.
As the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Joshi stated that he has issued strict directives to airlines to prevent ticket price hikes during this emergency.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister and Rajya Sabha Member H.D. Deve Gowda expressed his distress over the events in Pahalgam, saying: “What transpired in Kashmir yesterday has greatly troubled me. My heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of all those who have lost loved ones.”
