Itanagar, Apr 23: Governor KT Parnaik and Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Wednesday condemned the terrorist attack on tourists at Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people including one from the state dead.
Terming the killing of innocent people as a "barbaric act of cowardice", the governor said such attacks are a direct assault on the composite and inclusive fabric of India, which binds the nation in unity and diversity.
On Corporal Tage Hailyang of the Indian Air Force, an Arunachal Pradesh resident who lost his life in the attack, Parnaik said the entire state stands united in mourning this irreparable loss, a Raj Bhavan statement said here.
Joining the people of the state in mourning the loss of innocent lives, the governor offered prayers for the eternal peace of the departed souls.
Parnaik, who served in Jammu and Kashmir including as the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, also wished a speedy and full recovery to those injured in the attack.
He emphasised that targeting tourists not only disrupts peace and harmony but also strikes at the core of socio-economic development for the local communities who depend on tourism for their livelihoods.
Reaffirming faith in the leadership of the nation, the governor expressed confidence that the perpetrators of this cowardly act will be swiftly identified and brought to justice.
Such acts of terror will not go unpunished. The resolve of our nation to stand united against terrorism remains stronger than ever, he said.
This is a time for solidarity and compassion. Let us all stand together in this moment of grief and strengthen our commitment to peace, unity, and national integrity, the governor added.
Terrorists struck a prime tourist location at Baisaran meadows near Pahalgam in south Kashmir on Tuesday, killing 26 people, mostly tourists.
Chief Minister Pema Khandu said Corporal Tage Hailyang was visiting Pahalgam with his wife.
Reports said Corporal Hailyang was posted at the Indian Air Force base in Srinagar.
"Deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Corporal Tage Hailyang of the Indian Air Force, a brave son of Arunachal Pradesh who hailed from Tajang village in Lower Subansiri. While visiting Pahalgam with his wife, his life was cruelly taken in a senseless act of terror," Khandu wrote on 'X'.
The chief minister said the officer served the nation with courage and honour, and his untimely death is a great loss not only to his family but to the entire country.
"Our thoughts are with his loved ones, especially his wife who survived this horrific incident. May they find strength and solace in this unimaginable time of grief. We will always remember Corporal Hailyang for his service and sacrifice," he said.
Terrorists struck at a prime tourist location in Pahalgam in south Kashmir on Tuesday, killing at least 26 people, mostly tourists, and injuring several others. PTI
