Amid heightened security measures following the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today urged the authorities to ensure that innocent civilians in Jammu and Kashmir are not subjected to collective punishment. The attack, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians on April 22, has drawn widespread condemnation across the country and within Kashmir itself.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah acknowledged the tense atmosphere in the Valley but stressed the need for measured and wise action.
“We are aware of the prevailing atmosphere. It will take time. We cannot shut our eyes to reality, nor can we deny it,” Abdullah said.
“But we must also ensure that, in the process of apprehending those involved in the Pahalgam attack, innocent people are not troubled.”
He emphasized that while arrests and investigations are necessary, the government must avoid creating the impression that the entire population is being punished.
“It should not appear that, in an attempt to catch a few individuals, we are arresting the entire population of J&K,” he warned.
Addressing concerns over the Kulgam incident and reports of arrests across the Valley, Abdullah praised the people of Kashmir for openly condemning the Pahalgam attack.
“For the first time, the people of Kashmir have openly condemned such an attack, expressed their anger, and made it clear that they do not support it. Therefore, they should not be made to feel as though everyone is being punished.”
The Chief Minister also clarified that the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) drills at Dal Lake were not linked to the mock drills ordered by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The exercise, he explained, was aimed at improving preparedness following incidents of shikaras capsizing in the lake during recent gusty evening winds.
Mehbooba Mufti Appeals for Release of Innocents
Meanwhile, former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has written to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and CM Omar Abdullah, urging an end to what she described as “mass retribution” following the attack.
In her letter, Mufti highlighted the “spontaneous and unprecedented” public response from Kashmiris who condemned the attack, observed shutdowns, and joined protests.
“Even in the immediate aftermath of the attack, local Kashmiris rushed to help the injured, transporting them to hospitals and donating blood — not as a favour but as a heartfelt duty toward their fellow citizens,” she wrote.
With the Shri Amarnath Yatra approaching, Mufti appealed to the administration to halt the wave of arrests and punitive measures.
“Let the people of Kashmir breathe easy and prepare to welcome the Yatris with the warmth and hospitality they are well recognized for,” Mufti urged.
⚠️ Background on the Pahalgam Attack
The April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam left 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen dead. The Indian Armed Forces have since launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK.
🗺️ Travel Advisory for Jammu & Kashmir
Due to heightened security operations, travelers are advised to stay updated on official advisories, avoid sensitive border regions, and comply with local guidelines.
