
Omar Abdullah: No Statehood Push Amid Pahalgam Tragedy
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent lives, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has categorically stated that he will not exploit the tragedy to renew demands for statehood. Speaking during a special session of the Union Territory’s Assembly, Abdullah emphasized that moments of national mourning must not be politicized.
He stated, “The security in Jammu and Kashmir is not the responsibility of the UT’s elected government. But I will not use this occasion to seek statehood. How can I push for statehood now? I do not believe in cheap politics. Should I have no value for the 26 lives lost and go to the Centre demanding statehood now?”
Assembly Stands United Against Terrorism
The session began with a minute of silence in honor of the victims, after which members of all political parties unanimously passed a resolution condemning the attack. The resolution pledged to “resolutely defeat the nefarious designs of those who seek to disturb the communal harmony and progress of the nation and of J&K.” The Assembly, for the moment, set aside political differences to present a united front against terrorism.
Focus Remains on Victims and Security
Omar Abdullah clarified that the conversation about restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood would continue at a later time, but not in the shadow of bloodshed. “We have talked about statehood in the past and we will continue to talk about it in future, but not right now. This time there will be no politics on anything except condemnation of the terror act and expressing solidarity with the families who lost their kin,” he said.
The Chief Minister’s statement has been widely seen as a responsible and mature response in a time of public grief. By rejecting the politicization of a tragedy, Abdullah has set a precedent for prioritizing unity, healing, and national security in moments of crisis.