Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], April 23 (ANI): Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Wednesday condemned the inhuman terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed deep sorrow and offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic incident.
Speaking in the Tamil Nadu assembly, Stalin said, “The terrorist attack took place yesterday at a tourist spot in Pahalgam. So far, 26 tourists have died in this cruel and shocking attack, which has caused great pain to everyone. Tourists from different parts of India and from many other countries visit the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam. The terrorists suddenly attacked from the Baisaran hills, targeting innocent tourists in an inhuman and brutal manner. Such acts of terrorism are strongly condemnable.”
He said that the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, also said that this is one of the biggest attacks on innocent people in recent times. A terrorist organisation has claimed responsibility for this attack, showing how serious the situation is in the region.
“Terrorism and extremism, no matter their reasons, must be fought and stopped with a strong hand. According to the latest information, 26 people have lost their lives in the attack. When we received the news that people from Tamil Nadu were also affected, I immediately ordered the setup of a 24×7 helpline at the Tamil Nadu House in Delhi. The helpline numbers have been shared so that people can get updates and support,” Stalin said.
He further added, “I have also directed the Pudukottai Collector to travel to Jammu and Kashmir and assist in coordinating a medical camp. All necessary support will be provided to Tamil Nadu residents who were affected by the attack. This attack has deeply affected all of us. In 2017, 8 people were killed during an attack on Amarnath pilgrims. In 2019, 40 CRPF personnel died in the Pulwama attack. Now, this new attack adds to the growing list of painful incidents.”
“Such cruel and inhuman attacks have no place in our country, especially in a democracy like India. Our duty does not end with just condemning these attacks. We must take steps to prevent them from happening in the future,” Stalin said.
The Tamil Nadu Assembly expressed its condolences for the victims of the Pahalgam attack. All members also stood in silence to pay their respects to the victims of Pahalgam. (ANI)