Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Apr 23: The Congress party on Wednesday lashed out at the ‘cowardly’ terror strike that claimed over two dozen lives in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, terming it an inhuman act and a direct attack on India’s unity and integrity.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, party spokesperson Pawan Khera, and Karnataka Congress chief D K Shivakumar addressed a press conference in New Delhi, expressing deep sorrow and extending heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.

“This is a moment of national mourning. Every single Indian is in deep shock and pain,” said Khera.

The brutal attack occurred around 2:30 pm on Tuesday in the Baisaran Valley, leaving the entire nation “deeply hurt and saddened”, Kharge said, describing it as one of the most outrageous terrorist acts since the Chittisinghpura massacre of 2000.

"The Congress party unequivocally condemns this cowardly act of terror. The perpetrators of this heinous crime cannot be considered human," he said.

Kharge informed that he has spoken with union home minister Amit Shah, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and other leaders to assess the situation on ground. The home minister has reportedly assured ‘drastic’ measures to bring the culprits to justice.

“This is not a time for political differences. The nation must come together in resolve and unity. Justice must be delivered swiftly,” Kharge said.

Raising concerns over the economic impact, the Congress president highlighted how the region’s tourism-driven economy could suffer a severe blow. “With the start of the summer season, such attacks will badly hit incomes. Since Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory, we urge the Centre to extend all necessary support,” he added.

Calling out Pakistan, Kharge said, “A Pakistan-based terrorist organisation has claimed responsibility. We must respond with strength. The Congress urges the government to act decisively and hunt down those behind this act of terror.”

He also underlined the urgent need to ramp up security ahead of the Amarnath Yatra to ensure the safety of pilgrims.

The Congress further called on the government to convene an all-party meeting to discuss the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) is scheduled to meet tomorrow at the party headquarters to deliberate on the crisis and offer full support to the government’s efforts in tackling terrorism.