Bengaluru, April 26, 2025: In the wake of the Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday firmly opposed calls for waging war against Pakistan, instead urging the central government to strengthen security measures in the Occupied Kashmir Valley.
Speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah stressed the need for peace and security rather than military escalation. “There has been a security lapse in this incident. We are not in favour of war. Steps should be taken to tighten security measures in Kashmir. The central government must act decisively to ensure peace,” he said.
Rejecting demands for war, Siddaramaiah stated, “There is no necessity to wage a war against Pakistan. Strict security arrangements should be initiated so that people feel safe.”
Responding to questions about the central government’s admission of a security lapse in Pahalgam, the Chief Minister criticised the authorities, highlighting that the region had already witnessed a deadly attack in Pulwama, where 40 soldiers lost their lives. “Proper security arrangements should have been made in Pahalgam, a major tourist destination. The central government failed to protect people who trusted them,” he remarked.
Calling the incident a result of both intelligence and security failures, Siddaramaiah questioned, “Whatever action they may take now, will the 26 people who lost their lives in the Pahalgam attack return?”
On reports suggesting there were no security personnel present at the site during the attack, Siddaramaiah said he was awaiting a detailed briefing from State Labour Minister Santosh Lad, who had traveled to Kashmir to assist stranded Karnataka residents.
Addressing the issue of Pakistani nationals residing in Karnataka, Siddaramaiah said the state government would cooperate with central authorities in identifying and facilitating the return of Pakistani citizens. He noted that a significant number of Pakistani nationals were residing in Bengaluru but stated that detailed information was being compiled.
Criticising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Karnataka Chief Minister said, “The Prime Minister should have been present at the all-party meeting called after the Pahalgam attack. Instead, he chose to campaign for the Bihar elections. Which is more important — an election campaign or national security?”
Siddaramaiah’s remarks come as tensions continue to rise between India and Pakistan following the tragic events in Kashmir, fueling a broader national debate over the government’s response.
