Jammu, April 28 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, stated on Monday that for the very first time, citizens across the nation stand united, emphasizing that this unity is crucial in the fight against militancy and terrorism.

While addressing the Assembly during a special session focused on condemning the recent Pahalgam terror attack, CM Abdullah remarked, “The entire nation is together in denouncing this attack, stretching from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Although this is not the inaugural instance of such incidents, the response has been unprecedented.”

“The situation in Baisaran has once again raised concerns about where the next attack might occur. I struggled to find the right words for the tourists. As their host, it was my duty to ensure their safety. What can I convey to the children who lost their father or to a woman who recently wed and lost her husband?”

“Tourists questioned their wrongdoing; they came here seeking leisure. Those responsible for this act did not do it on behalf of us, and I want to emphasize that we did not endorse this. For the first time in 26 years, I witnessed people marching on the streets. From Kathua to Kupwara, every city saw citizens rallying together voluntarily,” he stated.

“The eradication of militancy and terrorism will only happen when the populace unites, and this marks the beginning of such a movement. We must take action to foster public support and prevent opposition. While we can use force to manage militancy, it is the collective will of the people that can ultimately end terrorism,” the Chief Minister asserted during his Assembly address.

“A moment of silence was observed in Masjids across the region. I will strive to represent the sentiments of the people,” he noted.

He acknowledged the bravery of local Ponywallah, Syed Adil Hussain, who confronted the terrorists to protect tourists and ultimately lost his life.

“For Adil, there are no words; he did not hesitate to risk his life. He rushed towards danger to save others. Tourists have shared how the Ponywallahs rescued lives, transporting the injured to hospitals. Local residents, including three-wheeler drivers, taxi operators, and hotel owners, all provided assistance to tourists, and I commend them for their Mehmannawazi (hospitality) of Kashmir,” he said.

Addressing the challenges faced by local youth outside the region post-Pahalgam attack, the CM expressed, “Regrettably, our students encounter issues in other areas. I appreciate the prompt actions of state governments. Our ministers visited Dehradun, Mumbai, Lucknow, Shimla, and more.”

CM Omar Abdullah stated that although security in J&K is not the elected government’s responsibility, he will not leverage this tragedy to push for statehood.

“I will not exploit the loss of these 26 individuals for political gain,” he added.

Following the discussion, the Assembly is set to pass a resolution condemning the Pahalgam attack.