'Safety Of Tourists Was My Responsibility': CM Omar Abdullah Issues Apology Over Pahalgam Terror Attack In J&K

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday, April 28, expressed deep remorse over the recent Pahalgam terror attack, saying he had failed in his responsibility to ensure the safety of tourists.

Speaking during a special session of the Assembly convened to condemn the brutal attack, Abdullah said the tragedy has left the entire country shaken.

"This incident affected the entire country. We have seen many such attacks in the past... An attack of such a large scale has been carried out after 21 years in Baisaran," Omar Abdullah said. "I did not know how to apologise to the families of the deceased... Being the host, it was my duty to send the tourists back safely. I couldn't do it. I do not have the words to seek an apology," he added.

Have a look at his statement here:

Abdullah further added, "I will not use this moment to demand statehood. After Pahalgam, with what face can I ask for statehood for Jammu and Kashmir? Meri kya itni sasti siyasat hai? We have talked about statehood in the past and will do so in the future too, but it will be shameful on my part if I go and tell the central government that 26 people have died, now give me statehood."

Pahalgam Terror Attack

The terror attack took place on April 22 in Baisaran valley, a few kilometres from Pahalgam, where 26 people lost their lives, most of them tourists. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility for the attack but later distanced itself.

In response, the Indian government announced a series of strong diplomatic measures against Pakistan, escalating further tensions between the two nations.

These measures included the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, the revocation of visas for Pakistani nationals, and the closure of the Attari land transit post. Additionally, on the recommendation of the Ministry of Home Affairs, India blocked several Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading provocative and misleading narratives against India in the wake of the attack.

Published on: Monday, April 28, 2025, 01:26 PM IST