Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday held Pakistan directly responsible for the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a “conspiracy” against India. Shinde said the attackers allegedly asked for victims’ religion before firing and described the incident as an “attack on Hindustan”.
“This terrorist attack is a conspiracy by Pakistan. This is an attack on the countrymen. They killed people selectively. Just like the surgical strike after Uri, this is a new India. We will avenge blood with blood, brick with stones,” Shinde said at a press briefing in Mumbai.
Shinde warned that India would not hesitate to enter Pakistani territory, just as it had in the 2016 Uri surgical strike, promising a decisive response to the attack that has shaken the nation.
Evacuation Plans for Maharashtra Tourists
In light of the tragic deaths of five tourists from Maharashtra, Shinde also took swift administrative steps. He spoke to Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, requesting the arrangement of a special flight to evacuate stranded tourists from Jammu and Kashmir back to Mumbai.
According to a statement:
“Deputy CM Shinde had a phone conversation with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu. He requested a special flight to bring back tourists. The Union Minister assured action once the list is shared.”
Of the five confirmed deceased victims, three were residents of Dombivli in Thane district—identified as Hemant Joshi, Sanjay Lele, and Atul Mone. Several others from the state were also injured.
Security Operations and Vigilance Nationwide
The Indian Army and J&K Police have launched extensive search operations in the Baisran region of Pahalgam, while Delhi Police have been placed on high alert with intensified surveillance around tourist hotspots and sensitive sites in the capital.
Broader Political and Public Reactions
Shinde’s fiery remarks echo sentiments expressed by other leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and Rahul Gandhi, all calling for justice, unity, and action.
Candlelight marches and protests have continued across multiple towns and cities in Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra, with people condemning the attack and standing in solidarity with the victims.