J&K Chief Minister Condemns Pahalgam Attack’s Impact on Tourism and Diplomacy
In a candid interview with NDTV, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his dismay over the recent attack in Pahalgam, stating it has severely undermined years of diplomatic efforts and economic growth in the region. The attack has not only disrupted the tourism sector, which had been showing signs of recovery, but also allowed Pakistan to reintroduce the Kashmir issue on the international stage.
Abdullah lamented, "We are in a place where we didn’t expect to be. There has been bloodshed and suffering, leading to turmoil and upheaval," underscoring the profound change in the region’s landscape. He contrasted the current state of the Valley with expectations for this time of year, when tourist influxes should be at their peak and children should be attending school.
Instead, he noted that the Valley is largely deserted, schools are closed, and air travel is at a standstill. "We should have been full with tourists, and airlines should have been operating 50 to 60 flights a day," he remarked, pointing out the stark economic implications of the attack.
Furthermore, he emphasized that despite the grim changes, in some aspects, "nothing has changed." He warned that Pakistan has, perhaps intentionally, managed to internationalize the Jammu and Kashmir issue once again, drawing in outside attention. Abdullah also referenced the United States’ increasing willingness to act as a mediator in the situation, hinting at broader geopolitical ramifications.
The CM’s comments highlight the delicate balance of peace and security in the region, now jeopardized by violence that threatens both local economies and diplomatic relationships.
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