Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has denounced the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, labeling it a “cowardly act.” In response, he has directed all police officers to heighten vigilance along the state’s borders.

Following the incident that resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, the Himachal Pradesh Police have ramped up security measures across the state, particularly in the border districts of Chamba and Kangra.

The state government has issued a high alert. The Chief Minister stated, “In the wake of such incidents, it is imperative to maintain heightened awareness. I have instructed the police to enhance their operations along the borders that adjoin Jammu and Kashmir.”

Sukhu firmly condemned the attack, asserting, “Such occurrences are intolerable in a civilized society, and we must take decisive action against anti-social elements.” He has called for strict measures against those responsible for the incident and an investigation into any security lapses that allowed it to happen, particularly since the victims were mostly tourists.

He further remarked, “An examination of security failures is necessary. The Home Minister is also scheduled to assess the situation.” The Chief Minister expressed his condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to the victims and their families during this tragic time. We stand in unwavering solidarity with them in the face of this barbaric act.”

Himachal Pradesh Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla, speaking with reporters in Chamba, condemned the attack, describing it as a cowardly act targeting defenseless individuals. “This is an embodiment of cruelty; these attackers cannot be considered human,” he asserted.

State Congress President and former MP Pratibha Singh also condemned the attack, expressing her sorrow and emphasized that “No terrorist or separatist involved in this attack should escape justice. We cannot accept any form of separatism or violence in our country. Strict security measures must be enforced to avert such incidents in the future.”

Labeling the attack as “inhuman,” Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur stated, “This dreadful act is not only a stain on humanity but also a cowardly ploy to disrupt peace and harmony. Such brutality is unacceptable in any civilized society.”

In Bilaspur district, traders in Ghumarwin closed their markets until 1 p.m. on Wednesday to protest the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. During this time, they organized a protest rally demanding stringent actions against the terrorists, with similar demonstrations occurring in Shimla.

State BJP Co-Incharge Sanjay Tandon joined the protest on Wednesday, declaring, “This cowardly attack on innocent civilians is an affront to humanity, and it is a situation that cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.”