A recent attack in Indian-administered Kashmir’s Pahalgam town has sparked tensions between India and Pakistan, with both countries engaging in a diplomatic push to sway global opinion. The attack, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists, has been blamed on Pakistan by India, while Pakistan denies the allegations.
Quotes from Indian Parliamentarians
- “India has been hurt by an unprecedented attack on India’s soul, the attack that happened in Pahalgam, which has shaken every Indian,” said Supriya Sule, a parliamentarian from the opposition Nationalist Congress Party.
- “We do not differentiate between a terrorist state and a terrorist,” Rajiv Pratap Rudy, BJP MP and former federal minister, emphasized during a news conference.
- “India does not make a distinction between the semi-state actors and the state which spawns that. Over the past four and a half decades, there is documented evidence provided to the international community – and to Pakistan – that terror emanates from their soil,” Manish Tewari, a parliamentarian from the opposition Congress party, explained.
Diplomatic Efforts and Reactions
Indian parliamentarians have embarked on a diplomatic outreach program to over 30 countries, aiming to “create a global opinion” against Pakistan’s alleged support for terror groups. The Qatari government has expressed support for India’s stance on zero tolerance for terrorism. However, critics argue that this diplomatic push might internationalize the Kashmir issue, undermining India’s long-standing position that its disputes with Pakistan are bilateral.
Perspectives on the Crisis
- Syed Akbaruddin, a former diplomat, noted that disputes between countries are normal, but the use of subterranean methods of terror is a problem that undermines social harmony, economic momentum, and democratic ethos.
- Anurag Thakur, a BJP parliamentarian, emphasized that Kashmir remains a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan.
- Anand Sharma, a Congress MP, stated that there is complete solidarity among Indian parties regarding the government’s decisions on the crisis.
The situation remains tense, with both countries claiming victory after agreeing to a ceasefire. The international community urges calm, while Kashmiris continue to suffer, with many families affected by the conflict.