A day after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 people, senior Congress leader and former Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram stated that the government must assess its options carefully and select the most effective response, assuring that the Congress party would support such action.

In an interview with The Indian Express, Chidambaram emphasized that the government’s immediate priority should be to track down and capture those responsible. He also called for a comprehensive review of the intelligence network in the region, noting that the attack highlighted a breakdown in local intelligence.

“It’s difficult to secure such a vast and sensitive area without reliable local intelligence,” he said. Regarding future actions, Chidambaram reiterated that the Congress will stand behind the government’s decision, provided it is thoughtfully considered and effective. On the question of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, Chidambaram said that although the issue is separate from terrorism, regaining statehood is “absolutely necessary” for improving the region’s security situation. He clarified that while statehood wouldn't directly prevent attacks, its absence fosters resentment. “If statehood is restored, the state government would bear the initial responsibility, which could help in countering terrorism,” he explained.

Deadly Attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam: The recent attack in Baisaran meadow, Pahalgam, is one of the deadliest in Jammu and Kashmir since the 2019 Pulwama bombing. According to central agency sources, The Resistance Front (TRF)—an affiliate of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba group—has claimed responsibility.

Following the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was on an official visit to Saudi Arabia, cut his trip short and returned to India early Wednesday. Upon arrival, he immediately convened a high-level security meeting with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and other senior officials to plan a strategic response.

PM Modi is now leading a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) at his residence, attended by Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, and NSA Ajit Doval. The Ministry of External Affairs is expected to issue a statement once the meeting concludes. Calling the incident a “heinous act,” the Prime Minister vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.