In the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has shortened her trips to the US and Peru, returning to India to support the nation. She condemned the attack, seeking justice for the victims. Home Minister Amit Shah is overseeing security measures to apprehend the attackers, as protests and candlelight vigils take place nationwide.
In response to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, Union Minister for Finance Nirmala Sitharaman has opted to truncate her official visits to the United States and Peru. She emphasized her desire to return to India to support the nation during this distressing period. The Ministry of Finance confirmed that she would board the earliest available flight back to India.
Sitharaman’s five-day visit to the United States commenced on April 20, accompanied by India’s Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and other officials. Her itinerary included participation in significant meetings such as the Spring Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank, as well as several bilateral discussions with finance ministers from various countries.
Following her engagements in the U.S., she was scheduled to embark on a maiden visit to Peru from April 26 to April 30, which she has now canceled due to the attack. Earlier, she expressed her heartfelt condolences to the victims and denounced the terrorist act in Pahalgam, emphasizing the need for justice against those responsible.
“Heartbreaking news from Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. No words to express grief. I condemn the terrorist act. Condolences to all affected families and friends of the deceased,” she stated in her post.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah convened a high-level security meeting following the attack, affirming that the perpetrators of this heinous act will face consequences. Security forces, including the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, have initiated operations to apprehend those responsible, while law enforcement in Delhi has heightened vigilance around tourist and key locations. The nation reacted with widespread outrage, marked by protests and candlelight vigils in several regions to honor the victims.
In summary, Nirmala Sitharaman’s decision to reduce her travel plans underscores the gravity of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Her expression of grief and solidarity with affected families highlights the government’s commitment to addressing national security concerns. As agencies work to ensure justice, public response reveals a collective resilience against terrorism, fostering unity across the nation.
Original Source: theprint.in
