FPJ Interview: Kashmir After Pahalgam Attack – Responsibility, Reality And Road Ahead; VIDEO

Executive Editor of Free Press Journal, Afrida Rahman Ali, engaged in a detailed conversation with senior journalist from Srinagar, M. Saleem Pandit, following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives. 

Pandit, who has covered Kashmir’s conflicts and political realities for decades, shared his sharp insights into Omar Abdullah’s Assembly speech, the ground situation in Kashmir, and the complex emotions prevailing among Kashmiris today. Excerpts from the conversation:

Q: What were your key takeaways from Omar Abdullah’s speech in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly?

Saleem Pandit: Omar Abdullah walked a very sharp line. On one hand, he took personal responsibility as Chief Minister and former Tourism Minister for inviting tourists to Kashmir and failing to protect them. On the other, he carefully avoided blaming the Union government directly. He’s balancing between reassuring Delhi and his own people, all while quietly working toward securing statehood and financial concessions for Jammu and Kashmir.

Q: Why do you think the BJP and opposition benches supported Omar Abdullah's speech?

Saleem Pandit: When Omar Abdullah took the entire responsibility for the tragic incident upon himself, he effectively absolved others—especially the Union government—of direct blame. That’s why BJP members praised him. It was a rare show of unity in the Assembly. By stepping into the BJP's shoes momentarily, he earned their appreciation while preserving his political capital locally.

Q: What are your thoughts on external reactions, especially the comments from across the border and politicians like Asaduddin Owaisi?

Saleem Pandit: Both India and Pakistan continue to protect their narratives. Pakistan justifies itself through rhetoric, while Indian politicians like Owaisi need to balance community sentiments within India. The ground reality is that hostility between the two nations has existed since 1947, and events like Pahalgam only deepen the mistrust.

Q: Has tourism in Kashmir been affected after the attack?

Saleem Pandit: Absolutely. There’s been a 90% drop in tourist arrivals. Many bookings were canceled after April 21. Despite some tourists braving the odds, the reality is that the bulk of domestic tourists have either canceled or postponed their visits. It will take time for normalcy to return and for people to feel safe again.

Q: You mentioned Kashmiris being very possessive about their land. Could you elaborate on that?

Saleem Pandit: Kashmiris are extremely proud and protective of their identity, culture, and land. Whether it’s apples, saffron, or even local produce like "Kashmiri murga," they deeply value their native heritage. But at the same time, they welcome tourists warmly. The conflict is emotional — between holding onto their identity and integrating into mainstream India.

Q: What are the deeper issues you think the country must recognize regarding Kashmir?

Saleem Pandit: We have to go to the root of the problem. Militancy and terrorism still exist in Kashmir. It may lie low for months, but it never completely goes away. Politicians often do not tell Delhi the complete truth about the ground situation. Every second Kashmiri may not be fully aligned with India. This is a hard reality we must confront.

Q: Finally, how would you summarize Omar Abdullah’s position after this attack?

Saleem Pandit: Omar Abdullah is maintaining a balancing act — he cannot displease Delhi, the people of Kashmir, or even Pakistan indirectly. His refusal to push for statehood now is political wisdom; he knows it is not the right time. His Assembly speech was carefully crafted to show accountability while preserving his future political space.