Srinagar, April 23: In the wake of a devastating terror attack that claimed the lives of 27 civilians, including a local pony handler, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday chaired an emergency meeting of the Council of Ministers at his Gupkar residence in Srinagar.
The attack, which took place in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam on Tuesday afternoon, targeted a group of tourists and left the entire UT in shock. During the meeting, the cabinet reviewed the overall situation and discussed urgent measures to restore public confidence and maintain peace across the Union Territory.
Sources told Rising Kashmir that the Council of Ministers expressed deep sorrow and anger over the tragic loss of innocent lives. The ministers unanimously condemned the barbaric act, calling it a direct attack on peace, harmony, and the democratic values of Jammu and Kashmir.
A two-minute silence was observed during the meeting in memory of the victims. The Chief Minister and his cabinet reaffirmed their commitment to stand with the bereaved families and ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice.
While acknowledging that security falls under the purview of the Union Government, the Council resolved to work closely with the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to protect every citizen, especially tourists and residents in vulnerable areas. The cabinet emphasised that no effort will be spared in safeguarding life and liberty.
The cabinet reviewed the financial assistance being provided to the victims. As per the existing announcement, the families of the deceased will receive Rs 10 lakh, those grievously injured Rs 2 lakh, and those with minor injuries Rs 1 lakh. However, the government is actively considering increasing this support to further aid those affected.
Instructions were also issued to ensure prompt disbursement of ex-gratia relief and to make the best possible arrangements for the medical treatment of the injured. The government will also facilitate the dignified transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased and assist tourists in returning home safely.
In view of the heightened tensions, the cabinet discussed the possibility of allowing employees recruited under the Prime Minister’s special package to work from home for a week, ensuring their safety while maintaining administrative functions.
Meanwhile, in Jammu, the cabinet has proposed a special session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly to be held on April 28, 2025, at 10:30 am. Although the formal agenda has not been released, sources suggest the session will focus on the implications of the Pahalgam attack and the broader situation in the Union Territory.
The Council of Ministers has appealed to all communities, religious leaders, political parties, and civil society groups to remain united and calm in these testing times. It emphasized that the people of Jammu and Kashmir must not allow such cowardly acts to divide them.
“Our resolve for peace and unity is stronger than any force that tries to create fear or discord. Let us rise above hate and reaffirm our commitment to harmony, resilience, and the spirit of Kashmir,” the Council said.
CM calls all-party meeting today
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for an all-party meeting on April 24 in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack in the valley.
As per the invite letter released by CM Abdullah, the meeting will be held at 3 pm at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) in Srinagar.
“I write to you with a heavy heart, in the aftermath of the horrific attack that took place in Pahalgam yesterday. The lives lost and the anguish inflicted upon innocent citizens have deeply shaken nave deeply shaken us all. This is not merely a tragedy for a region or a party–It is a wound upon the very soul of Jammu & Kashmir,” the CM said.
CM Omar Abdullah said a joint condemnation of the terror attack in Pahalgam, along with the current situation in the region, will be discussed in the meeting.
“In this sombre moment, I believe it is our collective duty–as representatives of the people and as custodians of democratic values–to come together irrespective of our political affiliations and stand united in our response. I am, therefore, convening an all-party matting to discuss the situation, express our joint condemnation of this act of terror and deliberate on the path ahead in ensuring peace, justice and resilience. The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, April 24, 2025, at 3 pm at SKICC, Srinagar,” CM Omar Abdullah said.
