Jammu, May 30: Union Home Minister Amit Shah visited Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district on Friday to meet the families affected by recent Pakistani shelling and the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. He strongly condemned the attacks and reiterated the government’s firm commitment to national security and the welfare of affected families.
During his visit, Shah distributed appointment letters to family members of those impacted by the cross-border shelling under Operation Sindoor, calling it a symbol of the nation’s solidarity.
“Pakistan carried out a highly condemnable and cowardly attack targeting residential and religious areas. While nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, a government job is a symbol of the deep emotions and support from the nation,” Shah said.
The Home Minister also acknowledged the courage shown by the people of Poonch, stating:
“The bravery of citizens and officials in Poonch and the patriotism of the people of Jammu and Kashmir has become a strength for the entire country.”
Referring to the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people—mostly tourists—Shah said that every act of terrorism would be met with a decisive and strong response, as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy.
“Terrorist bases in Pakistan were destroyed with precise action. Not a single Indian Army post was hit. Only terrorist hideouts were demolished. In contrast, Pakistan shelled civilian areas and even targeted religious sites like gurdwaras and madrasas—acts that have been condemned by the international community.”
He added that following India’s precision strikes on nine Pakistani air bases, Pakistan was forced to seek dialogue.
Amit Shah’s visit to Poonch marks his third trip to Jammu and Kashmir since April 6, and his first since the Indian armed forces carried out strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) on May 7.
During his visit, Shah also reviewed the security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra. On Thursday night, he chaired a high-level meeting in Jammu, attended by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, senior army officers, police, and paramilitary officials.
“Chaired a review meeting for the Amarnath Pilgrimage and evaluated the security arrangements and preparedness meant for the pilgrims. Instructed to maintain utmost vigilance and ensure seamless completion of the sacred journey,” Shah posted on X.
He assured that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure the safety and smooth passage of Amarnath Yatra pilgrims.
The Home Minister also interacted with families affected by the recent Pakistani drone attacks and shelling, which claimed 14 civilian lives in Poonch between May 7 and May 10—the highest in the region. Shah is also scheduled to visit local religious sites and meet with BSF personnel stationed in the area.
Tight security was observed across Jammu and Kashmir following his arrival on Thursday evening.
