The recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam has once again exposed the fault lines in our security apparatus and raised pressing questions that remain unanswered. As the nation mourns the loss of innocent lives, it must also reflect on the response—not just to the perpetrators across the border, but to the way we treat our own citizens, particularly the people of Kashmir. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, Kashmir rose in solidarity with the rest of the nation. Citizens condemned the act in one voice, and in a deeply moving instance, at least one Kashmiri youth lost his life while attempting to save a tourist. These acts of bravery and unity must not be overshadowed by reactionary hostility in other parts of the country.
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Unfortunately, reports have surfaced of Kashmiri students being harassed and targeted elsewhere in India. Such behaviour is not only unacceptable, it actively undermines the very values we seek to defend from terrorism—democracy, justice, and unity.
It is imperative that the government acts swiftly and decisively against such elements. National security cannot come at the cost of communal harmony. The message must be loud and clear: while we stand united against terrorism, we will not tolerate the vilification of an entire community for the actions of a few. The government must also turn its attention to rebuilding confidence, particularly in the tourism sector of Kashmir. After every such attack, the flow of tourists slows to a trickle, dealing a blow to the livelihoods of thousands who depend on tourism. It is essential for the administration to not only assure security but demonstrate it through visible, reliable measures that protect visitors and locals alike.
Equally important is the need to fix accountability. From Kargil to Pulwama and now Pahalgam, we have repeatedly seen attacks occur despite prior warnings or intelligence inputs. While lapses are acknowledged post-facto, little is done to ensure accountability or transparency. Public statements admitting failure like in the instant case are not enough; concrete actions, including investigations, suspensions, and structural reforms, are necessary to restore public faith in our security systems. This is not a time for symbolic gestures alone. India must walk the fine line between taking tough action against cross-border terrorism and safeguarding the internal cohesion of its diverse society. Trust—both within and beyond Kashmir—will not be restored through words alone. It will be rebuilt through fairness, justice, and an unflinching commitment to holding those responsible to account. Only then can we hope to ensure that such tragedies do not repeat themselves. Only then will our fight against terror be both strong and just.
