Omar Abdullah convenes special Cabinet meet in Pahalgam

On Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah convened a special Cabinet meeting in Pahalgam, the site of a lethal terror attack in April, emphasizing that ‘cowardly acts of terrorism will not hinder tourism in the Valley.’

The symbolic gesture, unprecedented in recent times, sought to convey normalcy and enhance tourism in one of Kashmir’s most beautiful yet sensitive locations.

On April 22, Pahalgam experienced a horrific terrorist attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians and renewed worries about the security of tourists in the area.

‘Terrorism will not stop tourism’

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Abdullah said, “We did not come here just to tick off a government formality. We came here to deliver a strong message that terrorism and bloodshed will not stop tourism, happiness and development in Jammu and Kashmir”.

Additionally, the Chief Minister emphasized that tourism in the area should be regarded as a conflict-neutral zone, underscoring its essential contribution to the local economy. He stated that tourism must stay a conflict-neutral endeavor since it serves as a lifeline for numerous families in Jammu and Kashmir.

Abdullah praised the bravery exhibited by the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly those in Pahalgam, following the April massacre. Abdullah stated, “This gathering serves as our expression of gratitude to them — for their strength, for speaking out against terrorism, and for refusing to succumb to fear.”

This marked the initial occasion the Cabinet convened beyond the conventional power hubs of Srinagar and Jammu in this government’s tenure. The choice to gather in Pahalgam was a symbolic expression of solidarity for the hill town, struggling with a significant drop in tourist arrivals following the terror attack on April 22.