Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Jul 10: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday acknowledged that the year 2025 has been challenging, particularly in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, but expressed optimism that the Union Territory’s tourism sector is on the path to recovery. Addressing a travel and tourism event in Kolkata, Abdullah said that while the attack raised understandable concerns among tourists, the government has taken comprehensive steps to ensure their safety.
He emphasized that his assurance was not merely administrative but could be validated by those who have recently visited Pahalgam and returned safely. Abdullah noted that a surge in flights to Jammu and Kashmir — particularly for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra — reflects growing confidence among tourists and improved connectivity.
During his speech, he extended gratitude to the West Bengal government and its people for their longstanding support and solidarity with Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the historical and emotional bond between the two regions, saying the relationship is built on trust, empathy, and mutual respect. Abdullah said that West Bengal has consistently supported Jammu and Kashmir, both in times of political uncertainty and economic challenges.
The Chief Minister is also scheduled to meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee later in the day at the state secretariat, Nabanna. The meeting follows continued engagement between the two states, especially after the Pahalgam attack, when the Trinamool Congress sent a five-member delegation to assess the situation on the ground. The delegation also met Abdullah at his official residence during that visit.
He appreciated Mamata Banerjee’s swift response to the tragedy, praising her decision to dispatch the delegation as a sign of genuine concern and interstate camaraderie.
The Pahalgam terror attack, carried out by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, left at least 26 civilians dead. Reports revealed that the assailants selectively targeted individuals based on their religion, marking the attack as one of the most brutal in recent years.