The recent terror attack in Pahalgam has jolted the nation, reminding us that the shadow of terrorism still looms over Kashmir. But this should not lead to retreat or hesitation. India cannot, and must not, abandon Kashmir. On the contrary, this is a moment that demands firmer resolve—to reclaim every inch of the Valley not just territorially, but ideologically and psychologically.
What truly needs to be abandoned is the toxic ecosystem that continues to thrive in parts of the Valley—an ecosystem built by Pakistan, sheltered by sympathizers, and subtly supported by elements who hide behind social activism and intellectual posturing. This pro-Pakistani network, both on the ground and online, must be identified, exposed, and decisively dismantled. It is not merely about fighting militants with guns; it is about cleansing the entire web of anti-national elements that create fertile ground for such attacks.
There is iota of doubt that nearly after three decades the Central Government has made remarkable progress in destroying the ecosystem of terrorism with an abrogation of Article 370 from the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Tourism revived, investments increased, and a sense of normalcy had started to return. But somewhere along the line, the perception of peace led to a dilution of intensity. The Pahalgam incident is a wake-up call—a direct result of lowered guard and security lapses, which the Centre itself has admitted.
With the Amarnath Yatra on the horizon, the safety of pilgrims must be treated as an issue of national prestige. Thousands of devotees from across the country come to pay homage to Baba Amarnath ji, and their sense of security must be absolute. Not just for their protection, but to send a loud message: fear has no place in Kashmir.
Security agencies must now go beyond routine operations. Those who provoke from drawing rooms, manipulate minds through misinformation, and glorify separatist agendas should be held accountable. There can be no space for ambiguity. You are either with the nation—or with its enemies.
The fight ahead is not just against terrorists holding guns in the forests. It is against the ecosystem that manufactures their narratives, protects their sympathizers, and quietly applauds their actions.
India’s commitment to Kashmir must be total—not just in territory, but in thought, policy, and action. This time, the Valley must be reclaimed completely. The cleansing must be complete. The resolve, unshakable.
