Synopsis
In response to the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Waris Pathan of AIMIM demands a united front against terrorism, urging political parties to collaborate and take decisive actions. He emphasizes the need for accountability, national security, and the importance of immediate government response.Key Takeaways
- Waris Pathan condemns the Pahalgam terror attack.
- Calls for a united political front against terrorism.
- Emphasizes the need for accountability in security measures.
- Warns against politicizing religion in the wake of attacks.
- Advocates for cutting diplomatic ties with those harboring terrorists.
Mumbai, April 24 (NationPress) Following the tragic terror incident in Pahalgam, Waris Pathan, the national spokesperson for the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), has vehemently condemned the attack. He called for a cohesive national stance against terrorism, urging all political factions to put aside their differences and take concrete action to address the escalating menace of terrorism.
In an interview with IANS, Waris Pathan expressed, "I categorically denounce the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. No words suffice to capture the horror of this event. Innocent tourists and families enjoying a tranquil getaway were targeted solely because of their names and faiths. This is an act of pure savagery. Those ruthless terrorists responsible for the deaths of 26 innocent souls must face punishment that resonates even with their handlers."
He stressed that the era of mere gestures is over.
"This is not the time for empty rhetoric. India seeks justice. The government must act decisively. If intelligence indicates Pakistan's involvement, we must respond with strength. There can be no clemency for such a despicable act," he asserted.
Pathan also questioned the security measures in Pahalgam.
"With over 2,000 tourists in the vicinity, where was the military presence? Where were the checkpoints? A woman recounted that her brother lingered for over an hour post-shooting—had assistance arrived sooner, he might have survived. This indicates a grave failure in both intelligence and emergency response. Accountability is imperative," he urged, calling on the media to demand answers from the government.
Addressing recent troop deployment changes, Pathan remarked, "I listened to a retired Colonel mention that 150,000 troops have been withdrawn from the area. How can we allow this when Kashmir remains a target for terrorism?"
Importantly, he warned against the politicization of religion in the wake of the attack.
"Now is not the time for communal politics. Reports suggest that some of the individuals who aided in rescuing victims were Muslims. One of them, Syed Adil Hussain, lost his life attempting to save others. Terrorism is blind to religion, and our response must reflect that. All political parties need to unite and take firm, collective steps against terrorism," he emphasized.
Regarding India’s diplomatic actions post-attack, such as the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and downsizing of diplomatic staff, Pathan stated, "These are vital steps, but we must go further. We need to completely cut ties with those accountable. Why maintain relations with a neighbor that continually sends terrorists across our borders? Let’s unite to eradicate terrorism at its roots."
He also responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's declaration that India will pursue terrorists "to the ends of the Earth". While acknowledging the urgency demonstrated by the Prime Minister, who curtailed his Saudi Arabia trip to return to India, Pathan called for more direct communication with the citizens.
"When I saw PM Modi returning and convening an emergency meeting, I anticipated immediate action. His visible anger was promising. However, when he made a statement from Bihar, it raised questions about potential election links. A direct address to the nation would have had a greater impact. Nonetheless, his commitment must now translate into tangible action," he remarked.
Pathan further reiterated the necessity for national unity.
"This is a matter of national security. Every Indian is impacted. All Indians and political factions must come together. The time for words has passed. This is the moment for action. We must act decisively and collectively to prevent such attacks from recurring," he concluded.
