Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday at the latter’s residence for a 30-minute discussion focusing on the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, and other pressing issues concerning the region.

This marked their first meeting since the attack, attributed to Pakistan-backed Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Abdullah briefed Modi on the ground situation, emphasizing the widespread outrage among J-K residents, who have held spontaneous protests across the Union Territory—the first such unified response since terrorism surged in 1989.

Also Read: Kashmir Going into Lockdown! J&K Government Shuts Down 48 Tourist Spots

He highlighted the bravery of pony operator Syed Adil Hussain Shah, who attempted to disarm a terrorist to protect tourists, and conveyed the region’s solidarity in rejecting violence. The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s unanimous resolution on April 28 condemning the attack was reiterated, reflecting a collective stand against terrorism.

The discussion also covered the attack’s impact on J-K’s booming tourism industry and the upcoming 38-day Amarnath Yatra, set to begin July 3 via the Pahalgam and Baltal routes.

Abdullah raised concerns about ensuring safety for pilgrims amidst heightened tensions, including ongoing LoC skirmishes with Pakistan. The meeting underscored the need to restore peace and bolster security to safeguard J-K’s economic and cultural vitality, with Modi assuring support for the region’s stability.

Also Read: Amit Shah Takes Stock in Srinagar! Development Agenda in Spotlight