Former Chief Minister Criticizes Government Following Pahalgam Attack

Agartala, Apr 24, 2025, By Our Correspondent

Agartala: April 24: In the aftermath of a devastating militant attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 28 civilians and left 20 others seriously injured, former Tripura Chief Minister and Politburo member Manik Sarkar has launched a scathing critique of the central government's security policies in Jammu and Kashmir.

Condemning the attack as “barbaric and inhumane,” Sarkar expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of innocent lives. He called for exemplary punishment for the perpetrators and urged the government to extend comprehensive support to the victims’ families, including financial aid and long-term rehabilitation.

Sarkar also questioned the central government's repeated claims that terrorism had been eradicated in the region following the abrogation of Article 370. Referring to the continued targeting of security personnel and civilians, he argued that the government's narrative of restored normalcy stands in sharp contrast to the ground realities.

“The government's failure to prevent such attacks shows a serious lapse in intelligence and preparedness,” Sarkar said. “By prioritizing political gains over public safety, the administration has exposed ordinary citizens to grave dangers.”

The Pahalgam attack has once again brought national attention to the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, reigniting debate over the effectiveness of measures taken after the constitutional change in August 2019. While the government maintains that the region is moving toward stability and development, critics argue that the frequency of violent incidents suggests otherwise.

Sarkar called on democratic forces across the country to speak out against terrorism and demand accountability. He emphasized the urgent need for a security strategy that is people-centric and focused on long-term peace and justice, rather than short-term political advantage.