Srinagar: Leaders from across the political spectrum, including the President and the Prime Minister, on Tuesday paid homage to the victims of the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam attack, marking its first anniversary with messages of remembrance, unity, and resolve against terrorism.
President Droupadi Murmu said the loss of innocent lives continues to remain in the nation’s collective memory, offering condolences to the bereaved families. She reaffirmed that the country stands firmly with them and remains committed to peace, unity, and combating terrorism in all forms.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the victims “will never be forgotten,” calling the attack a tragedy that still weighs heavily on the nation. He stressed that India remains united in grief and determination and will not bow to terror.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute, acknowledging the suffering of the families and reiterating that India’s stand against terrorism is firm and resolute.
Senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the country will neither forget the victims nor forgive those responsible, adding that the grief of the affected families continues to echo nationwide.
Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh termed April 22 a day of “deep pain,” recalling the attack, questioning possible security lapses, and expressing solidarity with the victims’ families.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the region stands united against terrorism and is committed to preventing such incidents, while extending support to the families of those killed.
BJP MP Jugal Kishore Sharma described the victims as “martyrs,” saying the nation remembers them with respect and attributing the attack to cross-border terrorism.
Global voices also joined in, with the French Embassy in India and the European Union expressing solidarity with India and reaffirming support for the global fight against terrorism.
The tributes mark the first anniversary of the attack in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed in one of the deadliest civilian attacks in recent years.
The incident had sparked nationwide outrage and led to heightened security measures across tourist areas in Jammu and Kashmir.
