Slams Pakistan for Targeting Civilian Population in J&K
Suhail Khan
SRINAGAR, May 07 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated on Wednesday that India, while carrying out ‘Operation Sindoor’, exercised its right to respond in an “appropriate and proportional manner.” However, he accused Pakistan of “going out of its way” to target civilian populations in J&K.
Speaking to the media, as per Kashmir Despatch, Omar emphasized that no one—”including those in the central government”—wants the current tensions to escalate into a full-scale war.
“After the inhuman and barbaric murder of 26 innocent civilians in Pahalgam, it was expected that India would exercise its right to respond proportionately. I believe the Government of India and our defense forces have ensured that no military or civilian targets in Pakistan were hit—only terror bases and launch pads were struck,” he said.
He further condemned Pakistan’s retaliatory actions, which have resulted in civilian casualties in Jammu and Kashmir. “Unfortunately, Pakistan has deliberately targeted civilian areas, leading to the deaths of five civilians, including a child, and injuries to over 30 others. This is unacceptable,” Omar added.
Contingency Funds Released for Border Districts
The Chief Minister announced that contingency funds have been allocated to all District Commissioners (DCs) in Jammu and Kashmir, with additional support for border districts. “I have directed the finance department to release emergency funds to all DCs, with extra provisions for those in border areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, Omar squarely blamed Pakistan for the current crisis, referencing the April 22 Pahalgam attack. “We are in this situation because of them. Had they not targeted innocent civilians in Pahalgam, we would not be here. The ceasefire had held for years, bringing relative peace to J&K. We were witnessing a thriving tourist season, crucial for our economy. They are the reason for this mess,” he asserted.
Reiterating his stance against war, Omar stated, “I don’t want war. Nobody does. I doubt even the central government desires an escalation. Remember, we responded to a provocation. Now, Pakistan must recognize that our retaliation was limited to the Pahalgam tragedy.”
Later in the day, Omar Abdullah attended a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah via video conference, which included representatives from border states.
