Leadership, Army pay homage to victims; firm national resolve against terror reiterated

Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid homage to the 26 victims of the Pahalgam terror attack on its first anniversary, stating that India remains steadfast in confronting terrorism.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the tragedy continues to weigh on the nation’s conscience and remembered those who lost their lives. “They will never be forgotten. My thoughts are with the bereaved families as they cope with this loss,” he said.

He said the country stands united in grief and purpose, adding that attempts to disrupt peace will not succeed.

The attack in south Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley had left 26 civilians, mostly tourists, dead. In its aftermath, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure across the border.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the incident as a “cowardly” act and said India’s response to cross-border terrorism has grown firm and consistent. “We will not forget the wounds inflicted on our nation,” he said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah termed terrorism the “greatest enemy of humanity” and reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance approach, noting that the sense of loss continues to resonate across the country.

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the memory of the victims endures, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated the administration’s commitment to preventing violence and safeguarding lives in the Union Territory.

Meanwhile, the Indian Army reiterated its position against terrorism, stating that any act against the nation would invite a definite response. In a message issued through its Additional Directorate General of Public Information, the Army said, “For acts against India, the response is assured. Justice will be served. Always.”

It also referred to the continuing measures under Operation Sindoor, describing them as calibrated efforts to dismantle terror networks.