Omar Abdullah: Won’t Seek Statehood at the Cost of 26 Lives

New Delhi, April 27: Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, making it clear that he would never push for statehood or political gains at the cost of innocent lives. His remarks, reported by News18, came in the wake of the brutal assault that claimed 26 lives, including several tourists.

Speaking to the media, Abdullah said no political objective, including the demand for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, could ever justify or outweigh the loss of human life. “We want our statehood back, but not by sacrificing lives. There can be no compromise when it comes to safeguarding people,” he said, offering condolences to the families affected by the violence.

Omar Abdullah also urged political parties to unite in condemning terrorism unequivocally, without using such tragedies to score political points. He emphasized that restoration of peace in the region must be prioritized over any electoral or political calculations.

The National Conference leader added that while political struggles will continue through democratic means, the sanctity of human life must never be undermined. “Terrorism is a common enemy, not a tool for negotiations,” he noted.

The Pahalgam terror attack has reignited national outrage, with widespread demands for tougher action against terrorism. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his recent address, vowed to track down and punish the perpetrators, signaling a hardening of India’s security and diplomatic stance.

As reported by News18, Abdullah’s comments come at a critical time, as political discourse in Jammu and Kashmir gears up ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, with issues of autonomy and statehood remaining key concerns among voters.

Authorities continue to maintain heightened security across the region, even as investigations and a massive manhunt for the attackers are underway.