Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has issued a strong statement condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of several innocent lives. In his address to the media, Shinde said the attack was not just an assault on the victims, but on the unity and peace of the nation.
Visibly moved, Shinde said, “We stand with the families of the deceased and injured. This cowardly attack will not be forgotten. Our brave soldiers will respond with strength. Every drop of innocent blood spilled will be avenged.”
The Deputy CM further added that Maharashtra mourns with the entire country and supports all actions necessary to bring justice to the victims. He also called for nationwide solidarity and urged all political leaders to rise above party lines in times of national crisis.
Shinde’s remarks come amidst a wave of political responses and security briefings following the terror strike. The attack, which took place in the popular tourist destination of Pahalgam, targeted civilians and has been widely condemned across the political spectrum.
The Maharashtra government has also directed its administration to reach out to any residents of the state who may be stranded or affected in the region. Helplines have been activated, and coordination with central authorities has been strengthened.
In his statement, Shinde also urged the central government to enhance intelligence capabilities and preemptive counter-terror strategies. “The time has come to hit back with greater force. We cannot allow terrorism to disrupt the peace and development of our country,” he said.
Opposition parties in Maharashtra echoed similar sentiments and expressed solidarity with the families. However, some leaders also called for greater transparency and accountability regarding the security lapses that allowed the attack to occur.
Security in sensitive areas across Maharashtra has been heightened following the incident, with police and anti-terror squads on alert. Meanwhile, tributes and candlelight vigils have begun across several cities, including Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur.
As investigations continue and the hunt for the attackers intensifies, Shinde reiterated that Maharashtra would always support national efforts to safeguard the country’s unity and peace.
“This is not just a fight for Kashmir,” he concluded. “It’s a fight for the soul of our nation, and Maharashtra will always stand in that fight.”
