Congress slams BJP for exploiting tragedy to create division
– Abdul Bari Masoud
NEW DELHI: The Congress Working Committee (CWC) strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a direct assault on the values of the Indian Republic. The attack killed 26 innocent tourists and left over 20 others seriously injured.
The CWC resolution raised concerns over intelligence and security lapses. It said Pahalgam is a heavily guarded area with three-tier security, and such a breach calls for a thorough investigation. The resolution stated that this analysis is crucial, especially since Jammu and Kashmir is a Union Territory under the Union Home Ministry. The CWC insisted that these questions must be asked in public interest to ensure justice for the victims.
The resolution paid tribute to local ponywalas and tourist guides, one of whom was martyred while saving tourists. It said this sacrifice was made to uphold the idea of India. It also noted that Hindus were deliberately targeted to inflame communal passions across the country.
The CWC criticized the BJP for using the tragedy to spread discord. It said that while all political parties in Jammu and Kashmir and many citizens condemned the massacre, the BJP is using official and proxy social media handles to sow hatred and polarisation. The Congress said such actions are dangerous when unity is most needed.
Later, Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Jairam Ramesh, Pawan Khera, Naseer Hussain, and G.A. Mir addressed the media. They reaffirmed the Congress party’s commitment to protect the unity and integrity of India.
When asked if Congress was attacking the Modi government, Venugopal denied it. He said this is a genuine concern raised by common people. “I was there yesterday paying homage. The victims’ families were all asking the same question. As a responsible Opposition, we have to ask this for the country’s future,” he said.
On whether the attack was planned, Venugopal said the area had three-tier security but still lacked proper protection. “The general public and those present felt there was no sufficient security,” he said.
Asked about the Prime Minister attending a rally in Bihar instead of the all-party meeting, he said, “Let the meeting happen, we will comment after that.”
On why the Congress resolution criticised the BJP despite leaders like Kharge and Rahul Gandhi calling for unity, Venugopal replied, “This is not an attack. These are our primary observations. Do you think there was no lapse in security? This is a valid question raised by the people.”
Regarding xenophobic attacks on Kashmiri students, he said the all-party meeting is happening today. “After the meeting, our leaders will respond,” he added.
On the Indus Water Treaty being suspended, he said, “We are waiting for more concrete decisions. The current move should not be symbolic; it must be real.”
He added that the Congress had already submitted questions to the government and is awaiting a response. “Once we get the answer, we will act further,” he said.
He also announced that today, April 25, the Congress will hold candlelight marches across the country at state and district levels. The march is in solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam attack and a protest against terrorism.
