Chief Minister Omar Abdullah struck a deeply emotional and reflective tone during the special session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, saying that the spontaneous and widespread public outrage over the Pahalgam terror attack could mark a turning point in the Valley’s battle against terrorism.
The Assembly, already united in condemnation of the April 22 killings of 26 civilians at Baisaran, listened intently as Omar emphasized the people’s role in fighting terror:
“We cannot control a terrorist with a gun—but we can end terrorism if people are with us.”
Public Outrage Without Political Call: “A New Ray of Hope”
Highlighting that protests broke out across the state without any party’s call, Omar noted this level of condemnation had not been seen in 21 years.
“From Kathua to Kupwara, people hit the streets—not in anger, but in grief and solidarity,” he said. “Even Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid held a two-minute silence—something unprecedented.”
A Tearful Acknowledgment: “I Failed as CM and Tourism Minister”
In one of the most poignant moments, Omar Abdullah took personal responsibility for the tragedy:
“I invited those tourists to Kashmir as CM and Tourism Minister. I failed to ensure their safe return.”
Fighting emotion, he recounted heartbreaking stories—a child crying beside his father’s bloodied body, a young widow asking what her mistake was.
No Politics, No Demands for Statehood—Only Grief
Rejecting opportunism, the CM declared:
“Curse be on me if I go to Centre now and push for statehood. This is not the time for politics—it is time for mourning and solidarity.”
He promised that the focus must remain on healing and justice, not bureaucracy.
Direct Message to TRF: “Not In Our Name”
Naming terror group The Resistance Front (TRF), which claimed responsibility, Omar asked:
“Did we ask for this? Did we ask for 26 innocent people to be sent home in coffins?”
He stressed that the people of Jammu and Kashmir, regardless of religion or region, categorically rejected the attack and the ideology behind it.
Tales of Valor and Humanity Amid Horror
Paying tribute to Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who died protecting tourists, Omar said:
“He could have fled—but he didn’t.”
He saluted locals who offered free food, rides, and lodging to stranded tourists, citing pony handlers, boatmen, and taxi drivers who displayed Kashmir’s true spirit of hospitality.
Assembly Remembers Its Own Pain
Omar reminded the House of the personal toll terrorism has taken on many MLAs:
“From Shagun Parihar to Sajad Lone, from Rafiq Naik to Sakina Itoo—many among us have lost loved ones to this violence.”
Referring to the 2001 J&K Assembly bombing, he said, “Only this Assembly understands this pain, not even Parliament.”
Warning Against Misinformation
In a stern message, the CM warned social media influencers against spreading fake news.
“90% are truthful. But that 10%—spreading falsehood—must stop. We will not tolerate it.”
