New Delhi, Apr 22 (UNI) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday paid homage to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, remembering the 26 citizens who lost their lives and asserting that the nation would never forget their sacrifice.
In a post on X marking the anniversary of the 2025 attack, Kharge said, “My humble tribute to the 26 citizens who lost their lives during the Pahalgam terror attack on this day in 2025. The nation will never forget nor forgive the sacrifices of innocent citizens. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the bereaved families who lost their loved ones.”
He also highlighted the role of the armed forces, adding, “We salute the valour and sacrifice of our brave Armed Forces, who fought with unbridled determination and fortitude during Operation Sindoor.” Kharge further remembered civilians affected along the borders, noting, “We also remember our citizens at the border who lost their precious lives due to cross-border shelling. Their sacrifice is etched in the conscience of the nation.” Emphasising national unity, he said, “The spirit of India stands unbroken, resolute and united against every act of terrorism.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh described April 22 as “a day of great pain and intense anguish for every Indian,” recalling the attack that took place exactly a year ago in Pahalgam. “Our thoughts are with the bereaved families. We also recall the bravery of the young local ponywallah who was shot dead while trying to save a tourist,” he said.
Ramesh, however, also raised questions over security lapses and the government’s response. Referring to remarks by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, he said, “The LG of Jammu and Kashmir admitted it was an intelligence failure. It is not clear what action was taken on this admission, even though the killers themselves were brought to justice a few months later.”
In a broader critique, Ramesh took aim at the Centre’s foreign policy, alleging that Pakistan had regained international space despite its internal challenges. “Pakistan stood isolated after it had carried out the terror attacks in Mumbai in November 2008. Its economy continues to be in shambles, dependent on largesse from external donors. Separatist movements are deeply entrenched in its polity and society. Its politics is dysfunctional and it is the Army that is calling the shots in the country,” he said.
He added that despite these conditions, “that very same failed state… has now acquired a new global respectability,” calling it “a reflection of the complete failure of the substance of the Prime Minister’s foreign policy and the self-glorifying style of his diplomatic engagement.”
The Pahalgam terror attack in 2025, which targeted civilians in the popular tourist destination of Jammu and Kashmir, had triggered nationwide outrage and led to intensified counter-terror operations. The anniversary has since become a moment of remembrance and reflection, with leaders across the political spectrum paying tribute to the victims while also engaging in a wider debate on national security and foreign policy. UNI SKA AAB