Anil Sharma, President of All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat conference, strongly condemns terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam

JAMMU: Anil Sharma, President of the All Jammu and Kashmir Panchayat Conference (AJKPC), has strongly condemned the barbaric terrorist attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, South Kashmir. In a powerful statement, Mr. Sharma described the incident as a heinous crime against humanity, expressing profound sorrow and outrage over the massacre. 

 “What kind of humanity is this, where bullets are fired at innocent people? Tourists who came to experience the beauty of Kashmir were mercilessly attacked. This is nothing short of a massacre and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances,” said Mr. Sharma.

Calling it one of the most brutal attacks in recent decades, Mr. Sharma noted that this is the first large-scale assault on tourists in the valley since the 1990s, once again exposing the ongoing threat of Pakistan’s state-sponsored terrorism.

 “We condemn this barbaric act in the strongest possible terms. The government must ensure that all those involved—whether directly or indirectly—are identified and brought to justice. Terrorism must be eradicated completely from Jammu and Kashmir,” he added. Expressing anguish over the indiscriminate nature of the assault, Mr. Sharma highlighted that the attack spared no one—women, children, the elderly, and youth were all targeted.

 “This attack clearly bears the signature of Pakistan, the ISI, and the extremist ideologies they cultivate. The international community must recognize the urgency of uprooting such ideologies to establish lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated. Reaffirming the AJKPC’s unwavering support to the security forces and the Home Department, Mr. Sharma pledged the full cooperation of the Panchayat Conference in the fight against terrorism.

 “I, Anil Sharma, and the entire Panchayat Conference stand firmly with the Home Department and our brave security personnel. Should our team or our former panchs and sarpanchs be required, we are ready to respond at a moment’s notice,” he affirmed. Concluding his remarks, Mr. Sharma made an impassioned appeal for peace, justice, and unity:

 “Our only wish is the complete eradication of terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir. The bloodshed must end. Every day we hear of brave police personnel being martyred, sacred places being desecrated, and now even innocent tourists being attacked. This reflects the vile and cowardly mindset of Pakistan, the ISI, and separatist elements. The government must ensure full support and compensation for the victims and their families. The Panchayat Conference stands in deep solidarity and conveys heartfelt condolences. We will continue to stand united with our security forces until terrorism and separatism are eliminated from this land.”

Major Terrorist Attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in Recent Years 

April 22, 2025 – Pahalgam Attack (Kashmir Division):

Terrorists opened fire on tourists in the Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam, killing 28 and injuring several others. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, is believed to be responsible. 

June 9, 2024 – Reasi Attack (Jammu Division):

A bus carrying Hindu pilgrims returning from the Shiv Khori shrine was fired upon, causing it to plunge into a gorge. The attack left 9 dead and over 40 injured. TRF initially claimed responsibility but later retracted. 

May 4, 2024 – Poonch Attack (Jammu Division):

Terrorists ambushed an Indian Air Force convoy in Poonch, killing one personnel and injuring four others. 

January 12, 2024 – Poonch Firing Incident (Jammu Division):

An army convoy was targeted by terrorist gunfire in the Dhar Dhullian area of Poonch. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. 

Throughout 2024 – Surge in Militancy in Jammu Division:

Militancy escalated across 8 of the 10 districts of Jammu—Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Kathua, Udhampur, Jammu, Rajouri, and Poonch. In 2024 alone, 44 individuals were killed in militant attacks, including 18 security personnel and 13 terrorists. 

This disturbing surge in terrorist violence highlights the urgent need for resolute and unified action. The AJKPC urges both the Union Territory administration and the Central Government to implement swift, strong, and sustained measures to root out terrorism and restore peace in the region. Jammu and Kashmir must once again become a symbol of harmony, hospitality, and hope.