Synopsis
In light of the Pahalgam terror attack, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has mandated increased border security measures. The attack, which resulted in numerous fatalities, has led to a statewide alert and calls for strict action against the perpetrators.Key Takeaways
- Pahalgam terror attack condemned by CM Sukhu
- Increased security in border districts
- High alert issued across Himachal Pradesh
- Investigation into security lapses demanded
- Solidarity with victims and families expressed
Shimla, April 24 (NationPress) Describing the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir as a "cowardly act", Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has ordered police officers to maintain heightened vigilance along the state's borders.
In response to the Pahalgam terror incident that resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 tourists, the Himachal Pradesh Police have ramped up security protocols throughout the state, particularly in the Chamba and Kangra districts, which share borders with Jammu and Kashmir.
A state-wide high alert has been issued.
The Chief Minister remarked, "When such incidents occur, it calls for immediate alertness. I have instructed police personnel to enhance their operations along the borders adjacent to Jammu and Kashmir."
Sukhu vehemently condemned the terrorist act, asserting, "Such incidents are intolerable in a civilized society, and those engaging in anti-social activities must be addressed decisively."
He has called for stringent measures against those responsible for this attack and for an investigation into any security lapses that allowed the incident, primarily targeting tourists, to occur.
He stated, "An inquiry into the security breach is essential. The Home Minister has come to assess the situation."
Moreover, he expressed his condolences, saying, "Our hearts are with the victims and their families during this profoundly difficult time. We stand in steadfast support of the families affected by this barbaric act."
Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, speaking to reporters in Chamba, labeled the attack as "an act of cowardice, targeting defenseless individuals. This reflects their brutality and disregard for humanity."
State Congress President and former MP Pratibha Singh also condemned the attack, expressing her sorrow.
Singh emphasized, "No terrorist or separatist involved in this attack should escape justice. Any form of separatist ideology or action is unacceptable in our nation. Stringent security measures must be implemented to avert future incidents."
Describing the attack as "inhuman", the Leader of Opposition and former Chief Minister, Jai Ram Thakur, remarked: "This atrocious act is not only a stain on humanity but a cowardly attempt to disrupt peace and harmony. Such brutality cannot be tolerated in any civilized society."
In Ghumarwin, Bilaspur district, local traders protested by keeping their market closed until 1 p.m. on Wednesday in reaction to the Pahalgam terrorist attack.
During the protest, the traders marched in a rally demanding stringent action against the terrorists. Similar protests were also observed in Shimla.
State BJP Co-Incharge Sanjay Tandon participated in the protest against the killings, stating, "This cowardly terrorist assault on innocent civilians constitutes an attack on humanity, which is unacceptable under any circumstances."
