Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 23: Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara on Wednesday strongly condemned the barbaric terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists, including two from Karnataka. Addressing the media in Bengaluru, he urged the central government to act with unwavering resolve.
“This is not merely a tragedy—it is a direct attack on the soul of our nation,” said Parameshwara. “The central government must respond decisively and without delay. National security must rise above all political lines.”
Describing the attack as one of the most heinous in recent memory, Parameshwara emphasised the urgency of action and accountability. “The terrorists not only killed 26 tourists, but allegedly subjected them to inhumane torture. The brutality is deeply disturbing. Such acts cannot go unpunished.”
He further expressed grave concern over possible intelligence failures and raised suspicions of internal collusion. “Our military intelligence has successfully thwarted numerous threats in the past. But this breach is alarming. How did the terrorists infiltrate? Were they aided locally? The Centre must investigate these angles thoroughly.”
Speaking with compassion, Parameshwara offered his condolences to the bereaved families. “I pray for the souls of the departed and stand in solidarity with their families during this dark hour. The fact that Karnataka lost two of its people makes this tragedy even more personal to us.”
Reacting to reports that the assailants deliberately targeted Hindu pilgrims, the Home Minister said, “We have received information that the attackers asked for the religious identity of victims before executing them. If true, this reflects a chilling communal agenda that must be confronted head-on.”
Calling for a unified political response, Parameshwara said, “This is not the time for Congress vs BJP rhetoric. When our people are killed in cold blood, we must speak as one nation. Let us act, not argue.”
He further informed that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had dispatched a high-level team led by Labour Minister Santosh Lad to Kashmir to coordinate support for affected families.
“The Centre must deliver justice swiftly and ensure this never happens again,” Parameshwara concluded.