Sat Apr 26 06:40:00 UTC 2025: **Kashmir Chief Minister Condemns Pahalgam Attack, Calls Indus Waters Treaty Unfair**

SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir—Following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has condemned the violence and declared the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan to be fundamentally unfair to the people of the Union Territory. In the wake of the attack, India has downgraded diplomatic ties with Pakistan, expelled Pakistani military attaches, suspended the IWT, and closed the Attari land-transit post.

Speaking after a meeting with tourism, trade, and industry bodies, Mr. Abdullah stated that Jammu and Kashmir has consistently opposed the IWT. While acknowledging the need to assess the long-term implications of the treaty’s suspension, he emphasized the region’s unwavering opposition to it.

The Chief Minister also announced plans to honor Syed Adil Hussain Shah, a “ponywallah” who bravely confronted the terrorists before being killed. Mr. Abdullah described Shah as a symbol of Kashmiri hospitality and pledged to commemorate his sacrifice. Maharashtra tour and travel operators have committed to supporting Shah’s family, covering their educational expenses.

The meeting, according to Mr. Abdullah, saw unanimous condemnation of the attack and a pledge to prevent future occurrences. He noted that participants prioritized expressing solidarity with the victims’ families over immediate concerns about economic losses to the tourism sector. While acknowledging future discussions on the economic impact, he praised the business community’s focus on compassion.

Mr. Abdullah highlighted the two-minute silence observed at the Jamia Masjid in Srinagar as a powerful response to those spreading hatred against Kashmiris, criticizing certain media outlets for failing to report this display of unity and mourning. He also mentioned raising concerns about harassment of Kashmiris outside the region with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who has assured appropriate measures to ensure their safety. The Home Ministry will issue an advisory, and Mr. Abdullah confirmed that his colleagues will be liaising with other state governments to address the issue.

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