New Delhi, April 28 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the nation in his monthly Mann Ki Baat broadcast on Sunday, expressed deep anguish over the terrorist attack that took place in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22. The Prime Minister said that the cowardly attack had pained every citizen of the country and vowed the harshest response against the perpetrators.
Modi said that every Indian, regardless of their language or state, was mourning the loss and that he could feel the “blood of every Indian boiling” after witnessing the aftermath of the attack. “This attack in Pahalgam shows the desperation of the patrons of terrorism; it displays their cowardice,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted the context in which the attack took place, emphasizing the recent positive developments in Kashmir. “Peace was returning, vibrancy had come back to schools and colleges, construction activities had gained unprecedented pace, democracy was getting stronger, tourism was breaking records, and new opportunities for the youth were emerging,” he said. He suggested that the enemies of the nation and the enemies of Jammu and Kashmir were unnerved by this progress and orchestrated the attack to derail it.
Underscoring national unity as India’s greatest strength in the fight against terrorism, Modi said, “The solidarity of 140 crore Indians is our biggest force. We have to strengthen our resolve and demonstrate strong willpower as a nation.”
He also noted that the anger and sorrow felt in India were being echoed across the world. Global leaders, he said, had reached out through calls, letters, and messages, condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with India. “The whole world stands with 140 crore Indians in our fight against terrorism,” Modi stated.
In a firm assurance to the affected families, the Prime Minister promised that justice would be served. “I once again assure the affected families that they will get justice. The perpetrators and conspirators of this attack will be served with the harshest response,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s remarks come at a time when the region has seen significant improvements in stability and economic activity. However, the attack is a reminder of the continuing challenges posed by terrorism.
This episode of Mann Ki Baat marks one of the rare occasions when the Prime Minister began his monthly address by expressing grief over a terrorist incident. Analysts note that his strong words reflect the seriousness with which the government views the Pahalgam attack, especially in light of the efforts made over the past few years to bring normalcy to Jammu and Kashmir.
The attack, which led to the loss of several lives, has reignited discussions on the security situation in the valley and the measures required to ensure that the hard-won gains of recent years are protected.
The Prime Minister’s message of unity and resolve was aimed not just at offering condolences, but also at reaffirming the country’s collective determination to defeat the forces of terror.
