Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has firmly rejected the idea of politicizing the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives. Speaking with deep emotion on Monday, Abdullah said that while the restoration of statehood remains a critical issue for the National Conference, it would not be demanded “over the dead bodies” of civilians.
“Politics Must Have Limits,” Says Omar Abdullah
Addressing the Assembly, Omar Abdullah stressed that human lives should never become bargaining chips for political gains. “We are not in charge of law and order in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said, adding, “But I will not use today’s tragedy to demand statehood from the Centre. We will raise that demand another day — not today, not at the cost of 26 lives.”
Watch Omar Abdullah’s address here:
He further remarked, “My brand of politics is not so cheap that I would demand statehood over mourning families. Politics must have its limits, especially when blood has been shed.”
The National Conference has long advocated for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370, which was revoked in 2019 by the Narendra Modi government. However, Abdullah made it clear that political aspirations should be set aside in times of national grief.
Kashmiri Unity Against Terrorism: A Turning Point
Abdullah strongly condemned the Pahalgam attack, reading out the names of the victims in a solemn tribute. He expressed pride at the spontaneous protests against terrorism that erupted across Kashmir, describing it as a significant shift in public sentiment.
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“In the last 26 years, I have never seen people come out voluntarily to protest an attack like this,” he said. “They carried banners, raised slogans against terrorism, and showed that Kashmir is rejecting violence.”
He also noted that silence was observed in mosques across the region to mourn the victims — an unprecedented show of unity against terror. “Militancy will truly end not just by guns, but when the people support peace. And now, it seems, they are reaching that point,” he said.
Praising Kashmiri Heroes and Hospitality
In an emotional moment, Abdullah recounted the bravery of Adil, a Kashmiri local who lost his life while saving tourists. “Adil, without thinking of his own life, rushed to save others. Instead of running away, he chose to stay and help. His sacrifice must never be forgotten,” Abdullah said.
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He also praised the heroism of pony wallahs who carried the injured to safety, food stall owners who served free meals, and countless ordinary Kashmiris who embodied the region’s famed hospitality during the crisis. “I salute these people. This is the real Kashmir,” he added.
Heartfelt Apology to Victims’ Families
Expressing anguish over the suffering of the victims’ families, Abdullah said, “What should I tell the widow of the Navy officer who had just gotten married? I have no words to console her. Many families asked me what their fault was. I had no answers.”
Although not directly responsible for law and order, Abdullah accepted moral responsibility for the tourists’ safety, saying, “As their host, it was my duty to protect them. I have no words — only profound sorrow.”
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He also thanked state governments across India for swiftly protecting Kashmiri students facing potential backlash in the wake of the terror attack. “Their quick action prevented many untoward incidents, and for that, I am grateful,” he said.
A Pledge for a Peaceful Future
Omar Abdullah’s refusal to politicize the tragedy stands out amid rising political tensions and emotional outrage across India. His call for restraint, unity, and humanity offers a hopeful glimpse into a future where political aspirations and the people’s welfare go hand-in-hand.
