J&K people always stood united against terrorism: Satish Sharma

Jammu, Feb 26: Jammu and Kashmir Minister Satish Sharma on Thursday said attempts to destabilise the Union Territory through violence would not succeed, asserting that people across the region have stood united against terrorism.
Addressing a gathering, Sharma referred to Pakistan’s actions in 1947 and said residents of Jammu and Kashmir had resisted attempts to derail the region’s future. He said the people of Baramulla, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, had opposed the tribal invasion and supported the accession of the erstwhile state to India.
Referring to the terror attack in Pahalgam, the minister said there were expectations that such events would disrupt normal life and economic activity in Jammu and Kashmir. However, he said traders, businesspersons and residents responded by maintaining unity and rejecting violence.
“After that incident, every person of Jammu and Kashmir stood against terrorism,” Sharma said, adding that people in the region have shown resilience in the face of repeated challenges.
He said Jammu and Kashmir continues to face security threats but maintained that the resolve of its people remains unchanged.
The minister congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah, as well as the armed forces, paramilitary forces and Jammu and Kashmir Police for their role in maintaining security.
Sharma said while adversaries may continue to use terrorism as a strategy, the people of Jammu and Kashmir are committed to peace and stability. He added that the region seeks to promote harmony and development despite provocations.
He also referred to the participation of visitors and groups from different parts of the country in recent events in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it reflects confidence in the situation.
Sharma said the collective response of residents to security incidents sends a message that violence will not derail progress in the Union Territory. (KNS)