April 24, 2025 | New Delhi – In a deeply emotional and resolute statement, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) has expressed its profound shock and condemnation over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists and left over 20 others critically injured. The attack has shaken the nation, and the Congress party stands united in its grief and solidarity with the victims’ families.

The attack, which was masterminded by elements across the border, represents a direct assault on the values of peace, harmony, and unity that define the Indian Republic. The Congress Working Committee denounced the targeted violence, which specifically sought to provoke tensions and inflame religious divisions. The Congress called for calm and restraint in the face of this grave provocation and reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms.

Immediate Assistance to Victims’ Families

Advocate Arsalan Khalid, a prominent Congress leader, extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and called for immediate action to support them in their time of loss. “In this moment of despair, we must not leave the families of the victims to face this tragedy alone. The Congress party urges the West Bengal state government to provide urgent assistance to the families of the three victims from Bengal who lost their lives,” he stated.

Khalid has made a direct appeal for the following actions to support the affected families:

  • Grant a government job to at least one member of each bereaved family.

  • Offer financial compensation to help the families rebuild their lives.

  • Provide educational and healthcare assistance to the children of the victims.

  • Ensure a long-term support system to help these families with their future needs.

A Call for Accountability and Transparent Investigation

The CWC has expressed serious concerns over the security and intelligence failures that led to this tragic attack in an area known to be under a stringent three-tier security arrangement. With Pahalgam being a Union Territory, directly under the jurisdiction of the Union Home Ministry, the CWC has called for a thorough investigation into the lapses that allowed such a heinous act to take place. The Congress demands transparency and accountability in ensuring that justice is served for the victims.

Ensuring the Safety of Pilgrims During Amarnath Yatra

With the Amarnath Yatra fast approaching, the CWC has called for a comprehensive and proactive security plan to protect the millions of pilgrims who will travel to the region. This pilgrimage is not only a spiritual journey for many, but it is also vital to the economy and livelihoods of the local people, many of whom rely on tourism. The Congress party is committed to ensuring that the safety of pilgrims is prioritized, and no stone is left unturned in ensuring a peaceful and secure Yatra.

Saluting the Bravehearts

The Congress Working Committee also paid tribute to the local ponywalas and tourist guides who, in the face of danger, put their lives at risk to protect the tourists. One such guide tragically lost his life while trying to save others. “We salute these unsung heroes who embodied the spirit of India in their acts of selfless bravery,” the CWC stated.

Political Opportunism Must Stop

The CWC has strongly condemned the BJP’s attempts to exploit this tragedy for political gain. “At a time when the country is grieving, the BJP is using official and proxy social media platforms to deepen divisions and create further polarization. This is a time for unity and compassion, not divisiveness,” said the resolution.

A Unified Response to Terrorism

In its final resolution, the CWC called on all political parties, communities, and citizens of India to unite against terrorism and work towards a future of peace and security. “This attack may have targeted innocent lives, but it will not break our collective spirit,” the resolution emphasized.