(Statement of Akhilendra Pratap Singh, Founding Member, AIPF)
Lucknow, (Asian independent) We express deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic incident at Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. This horrific event, in which both Indian and foreign nationals were killed, reflects a grave failure of the security apparatus in a highly sensitive region. As of now, 26 deaths have been reported, with the toll expected to rise.
We call upon the Central government and the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir to undertake a serious self-introspection to identify where exactly the system failed. Why was such a massive security lapse allowed to happen in a region with a known history of militant activities — especially at a prominent tourist destination like Pahalgam?
It is disheartening that the Prime Minister, while campaigning in Bihar, makes strong statements that “no one will be spared,” yet chooses not to visit conflict-hit areas like Manipur or Kashmir. These tragedies should not be reduced to sound bites on electoral platforms. It would have sent a powerful message of unity and resolve if the Prime Minister had visited Srinagar himself, addressed the nation from there, and taken stock of the situation on the ground to directly assess the security failures.
We also highlight the resilience of the people of Kashmir, who, despite facing prolonged unrest, violence, and divisive politics, have continued to send a strong message against terrorism. Their courage and commitment to peace must be acknowledged and respected.
The government must recognize that the lack of accountability and transparency in such situations not only weakens internal trust but also provides countries like Pakistan with opportunities to spin false narratives in the international community, such as the “False Flag” theory for appeasing America and to isolate Pakistan, thereby damaging India’s global standing.
This national tragedy is not just a law-and-order failure, but a policy failure of the BJP-led central government. It is the time to reassess and move beyond the current strategies. Instead of treating the region with a purely administrative lens, the government must focus on rebuilding trust, empowering the local population, and ensuring true democratic participation. This is the only sustainable path to counter terrorism and bring peace to Jammu & Kashmir.
We reiterate the demand that the families of the deceased be provided with all necessary support and compensation, and that those responsible for the lapse be held accountable. We also strongly urge that such incidents not be viewed through communal lenses — the victims are citizens of India, and justice must be served equally.
SR Darapuri,
National President, All India Peoples Front.
