Synopsis
On April 24, Ujjwal Nikam condemned the Pahalgam attack, highlighting its resemblance to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. He stated that such acts aim to foster communal violence but will not succeed in India. Nikam emphasized the unity of the nation against terrorism and expressed confidence in the government's strong response.Key Takeaways
- Ujjwal Nikam condemns the Pahalgam attack.
- Parallels drawn with the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.
- Terrorists aimed to incite communal violence.
- India will respond decisively to terrorism.
- International support for India against terrorism.
Mumbai, April 24 (NationPress) Senior public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam, well-known for his role in achieving convictions in the 26/11 Mumbai attacks case, on Thursday unequivocally condemned the terrorist assault in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists targeted and murdered civilians after inquiring about their religion.
Drawing comparisons with the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Nikam noted that such strategies are intended to provoke communal discord, but he firmly stated that these attempts will never prevail in India.
In an interview with IANS, Ujjwal Nikam expressed profound sorrow over the viciousness of the attack.
“I entirely condemn this barbaric and cowardly act. The manner in which the terrorists targeted innocent tourists, questioning their religion prior to executing them, evokes memories of the 26/11 attacks,” he remarked.
“During the assault on the Taj Hotel, Kasab and his accomplices followed a similar pattern. They questioned guests regarding their religion to determine their fate. One individual even misrepresented his faith to save himself; however, when his wife’s phone rang, the truth was unveiled. He was savagely beaten and nearly killed until National Security Guard commandos intervened.”
Nikam emphasized that the objective behind such attacks is to ignite communal riots. “Just as in 26/11, the terrorists in Pahalgam intended to foster hatred and division. However, the people of Mumbai, Maharashtra, and the entire nation responded with solidarity. We united then, and we will unite now. These divisive tactics will never be effective in our country,” he told IANS.
Commenting on the urgent Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nikam stated that the government’s reaction so far is merely the initial step.
“The nation has only begun to respond. The Prime Minister even canceled his scheduled engagements in Saudi Arabia and returned promptly. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has shown deep concern, and arrangements are underway to bring back affected tourists,” he added.
Nikam also highlighted the international backing India is receiving. “Even US President Donald Trump expressed full support for PM Modi. This indicates that India is no longer willing to endure terrorism.”
Referring to the Prime Minister’s assertion that India will pursue the culprits “to the ends of the Earth,” Nikam expressed strong confidence in the government’s determination.
“PM Modi has stated clearly -- there will be no refuge for terrorists. Following the abrogation of Article 370, Kashmir was progressing towards peace and development. This attack is a desperate maneuver by Pakistan-backed groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba to obstruct that advancement. Yet, they will not succeed,” he told IANS.
While remaining discreet about potential military or covert actions, Nikam hinted at robust retaliatory measures. “No government will reveal its exact strategy publicly. However, I am confident that the actions taken will be strict and decisive. India is not a soft state. We will not tolerate the murder of our citizens, and the world will witness that,” he concluded.
