Congress CWC Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Demands Answers on Security Lapses

• Apr 24, 2025

In response to the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives and left several injured, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) convened an emergency meeting on Thursday at the party’s headquarters on Akbar Road, New Delhi. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday in the popular tourist destination of south Kashmir, has been widely condemned across the political spectrum.

The CWC, the highest decision-making body of the Congress party, passed a resolution expressing deep sorrow and outrage over what it described as a “cowardly and calculated act of terror,” allegedly masterminded by Pakistan. The committee observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims, which included tourists, local ponywalas, and guides—one of whom died protecting others.

Party president Mallikarjun Kharge, CWC chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and senior leaders including Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, KC Venugopal, P Chidambaram, Meira Kumar, Anand Sharma, Abhishek Manu Singhvi, and others participated in the deliberations.

“The massacre in Pahalgam is a direct assault on the values of our republic. The targeting of innocent civilians, particularly Hindus, was clearly intended to provoke communal unrest,” the resolution stated. The CWC called for national unity and appealed for calm in the face of what it described as a grave provocation.

At a subsequent press conference, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, joined by Jairam Ramesh and Pawan Khera, read out the resolution. They highlighted the bravery of local residents who risked their lives to save others, underscoring their commitment to India’s inclusive spirit.

The CWC also criticized the BJP for allegedly using the tragedy for political gain, accusing it of promoting division and polarisation through official and affiliated social media platforms. “At a time when the nation needs unity, the BJP’s actions are deeply irresponsible,” the resolution added.

The Congress leadership raised serious concerns about intelligence and security failures that allowed such an attack to occur in a region with a three-tier security system and under direct control of the Union Home Ministry.

“The Congress, as a responsible opposition, is demanding accountability,” said Venugopal. “We await the government’s response on the lapses. Only through transparency and accountability can justice be delivered to the victims' families.”

In solidarity with the victims, the Congress announced it would hold candlelight marches nationwide on April 25 to pay tribute and protest against acts of terrorism.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, the CWC emphasized the need for urgent and foolproof security arrangements to ensure the safety of pilgrims and protect the livelihoods of locals dependent on the tourism industry. “Their security must be treated as a national priority,” the committee asserted.