Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, visited Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, meeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to discuss the aftermath of the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that targeted tourists.
Earlier in the day, Rahul met with victims recovering at the Army’s 92 Base Hospital at Badamibagh Cantonment, interacting with the injured and expressing solidarity with their families.
During his visit, Rahul also engaged with several delegations, including representatives from the trade and tourism sectors as well as student leaders, officials said.
Speaking to the media, Rahul Gandhi said the intent behind the Pahalgam attack was to sow division among Indians, emphasizing the need for unity in the face of terrorism.
“This is a terrible tragedy. I came here to understand the situation and offer support. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have unanimously condemned this horrific act and stand firmly with the nation,” he said.
He stressed that terrorists aim to divide society and pit communities against each other.
“It is crucial that every Indian stands together to defeat their malicious intentions,” Rahul added.
Reflecting on his visit to the hospital, he shared,
“I met one of the injured victims; others had already returned home. My deepest love and condolences go to all those who have lost family members. I want everyone to know that the entire country stands united with them.”
Rahul also referred to the all-party meeting held in Delhi on Thursday, highlighting that the entire opposition had condemned the attack and expressed full support for the government.
In addition to his meeting with Omar Abdullah, Rahul also met with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, assuring both leaders that he and the Congress party would offer full support during this critical time.
Addressing reports of harassment faced by Kashmiris in other parts of the country, Rahul expressed concern:
“It is heartbreaking to hear about attacks on my Kashmiri brothers and sisters. We must stand united against such hatred and ensure that we defeat terrorism together.”
The terror attack occurred on Tuesday when militants opened fire on a tourist meadow in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 people and leaving several others injured.
Rahul Gandhi, who was on a visit to the United States, cut short his trip to return to India for an emergency Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting convened in the wake of the tragedy.