Srinagar, May 06: AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Tuesday called for strong action against the perpetrators of the “cowardly” Pahalgam attack, which he stated had adversely affected tourism in the region.
Speaking to the media in Srinagar, Owaisi said, “The Pahalgam attack has not only harmed lives but also impacted tourism in Kashmir. We want stringent action taken against those responsible for this attack. We had emphasized this in the all-party meeting as well.”
Commenting on the religious targeting of tourists during the attack, Owaisi expressed his deep concern, condemning the manner in which the victims were separated based on religion. “It was a cowardly act. Terrorists from Pakistan killed 26 innocent tourists. What’s even more distressing is how they separated women and children, asking the men about their religion, and targeting those who couldn’t recite the ‘Kalma.’ This is a tragic incident, and I strongly oppose such attacks,” Owaisi stated.
On the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty by India in response to the attack, Owaisi advised caution, stating that the treaty already has provisions for arbitration and the appointment of a neutral expert. “The Indus Waters Treaty is currently in abeyance, but it includes a mechanism for arbitration. Let’s wait and see what unfolds,” he said.
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, which took place on April 22 in Baisaran meadow and resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, India has taken several diplomatic actions against Pakistan. Among the most significant measures was the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, marking the first time either country had taken such a bold step in response to a terror attack.
India has also restricted the flow of water from the Chenab River, which is part of the Indus water system, by closing the gates of the Balighar and Salal dams. According to Pakistan’s Dawn News, the flow of water at the Marala headworks dropped dramatically from 35,000 cusecs on Sunday to about 3,100 cusecs by Monday morning. A senior official from Pakistan’s Punjab irrigation department confirmed the near-blocking of the Chenab River flows.
Meanwhile, in Islamabad, the advisory committee of the Indus River System Authority expressed concerns about India’s unilateral decision, which could worsen water shortages affecting Kharif crops, already facing a 21% shortfall.
The Indian government has reiterated its firm commitment to taking decisive action against terrorism and ensuring that those responsible for the Pahalgam attack face severe punishment.
