A Meadow Marked by Mourning Turns into a Message of Strength: J&K Cabinet Meets in Pahalgam
Pahalgam 27 2025: In a historic and symbolic move, Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, convened a special cabinet meeting in Pahalgam on May 27, 2025. This marked the first time such a meeting was held outside the traditional capitals of Srinagar and Jammu during his tenure. The decision came in the wake of the devastating April 22 terrorist attack in Baisaran meadow, Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, predominantly tourists. Abdullah’s initiative aimed to send a resolute message against terrorism, express solidarity with the local populace, and chart a course for the revival of the region’s vital tourism sector.
The Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Tragic Turning Point
On April 22, 2025, the serene Baisaran meadow, often referred to as “mini Switzerland,” became the site of a brutal terrorist attack. Gunmen opened fire indiscriminately, resulting in the deaths of 26 individuals, including 25 tourists and a local pony rider, Syed Hussain Shah. This incident was the deadliest in the region since the 2019 Pulwama attack. The massacre not only led to a significant loss of life but also instilled fear, leading to a mass exodus of tourists and a severe blow to the local economy, which heavily relies on tourism .
A Historic Cabinet Meeting in Pahalgam
In a bid to restore confidence and demonstrate resilience, CM Omar Abdullah held a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam, breaking from tradition. This unprecedented move was designed to reassure both residents and potential tourists of the government’s commitment to security and development. Abdullah emphasized that such cowardly acts of terror would not deter the state’s progress and that the government stands united with the people of Pahalgam in these challenging times .
Key Outcomes of the Cabinet Meeting
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Defiance Against Terrorism: Abdullah reiterated that Jammu and Kashmir would not be intimidated by acts of terror and that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to peace and development.
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Solidarity with Pahalgam Residents: The meeting aimed to boost the morale of local residents, acknowledging their resilience and assuring them of the government’s support.
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Tourism Revival Strategy: Recognizing tourism as the economic lifeline of the region, the government outlined plans to rejuvenate the sector.
Tourism Revival: A Multi-Pronged Approach
The Pahalgam attack had a catastrophic impact on tourism, with occupancy rates plummeting and widespread cancellations. To counter this, the government proposed several measures:
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Encouraging PSU Engagement: Abdullah urged the central government to mandate Public Sector Units (PSUs) to conduct official meetings and conferences in Jammu and Kashmir, thereby promoting the region as a safe and viable destination .
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Hosting Parliamentary Committees: The state plans to host meetings of parliamentary committees in the region to showcase normalcy and encourage political engagement.
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Strengthening Security Measures: Enhanced security protocols are being implemented to ensure the safety of tourists and residents alike.
Memorial for the Victims
In a gesture of remembrance and resilience, CM Abdullah announced the construction of a memorial at Baisaran meadow to honor the 26 victims of the April 22 attack. This memorial aims to serve as a symbol of the state’s unwavering spirit and commitment to peace .
Central Government’s Response
Following the attack, Abdullah met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss the situation. The central government condemned the attack and expressed support for the state’s initiatives. Additionally, India launched “Operation Sindoor,” targeting terror camps across the border, resulting in significant militant casualties. Abdullah defended the operation, emphasizing that it targeted only terror infrastructure and avoided civilian areas .
Challenges Ahead
Despite these efforts, the road to recovery remains challenging. The tourism sector, which contributes significantly to the state’s economy, faces an uphill task in regaining the trust of potential visitors. Moreover, the broader geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan continue to cast a shadow over the region’s stability .
Bottom-Line
CM Omar Abdullah’s decision to hold a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam serves as a powerful statement against terrorism and a beacon of hope for the region’s revival. By combining symbolic gestures with concrete policy measures, the government aims to restore normalcy, boost tourism, and reaffirm its commitment to the safety and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.
