Virajpet MLA Ponnanna Condemns Pahalgam Terror Attack, Backs Centre’s Response

The Congress MLA described the incident as an external attack on India and criticised Pakistan, calling it a “rogue state” that has repeatedly violated international norms.

MADIKERI: Virajpet MLA A.S. Ponnanna has strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, terming it an "inhuman act" and extending full support to any steps taken by the BJP led central government in response.

Speaking to the media in Madikeri on Friday, Ponnanna said, “The attack in Pahalgam is an inhuman act, and those involved in this heinous crime must be given a befitting reply. This is not just an attack on innocent civilians but an assault on our nation’s integrity. For this, we must stand united behind the Centre and support any decision it takes to ensure the country’s safety and security.”

The Congress MLA described the incident as an external attack on India and criticised Pakistan, calling it a “rogue state” that has repeatedly violated international norms. “Pakistan has already been declared a rogue nation. It continues to flout global rules and sponsor cross-border terrorism. The Centre must respond decisively to Pakistan at the right time. On this matter, the entire country is united beyond party lines,” he said.

The Pahalgam terror attack, which occurred at the Baisaran Valley tourist site on April 22, has been described as the deadliest assault on civilians since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. A total of 26 people were killed, including three from Karnataka.

Initially, The Resistance Front (TRF)—a shadow group of the UN-designated terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba based in Pakistan—claimed responsibility, citing opposition to Indian policies encouraging non-local settlements in Kashmir. However, the group retracted its claim four days later. TRF has a history of targeting both civilians and security forces in the Kashmir Valley.

Following the attack, India accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism, suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, expelled Pakistani diplomats, and sealed its borders, escalating tensions between the two nations.

The incident has sparked nationwide outrage and drawn condemnation from leaders across the political spectrum.

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