NEW DELHI: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday said he was not in favour of “war” with Pakistan, even as tensions escalated between the two nations following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu Kashmir (IIOJK), that claimed 26 lives.
While speaking to reporters, Siddaramaiah emphasised the need to strengthen security in the Kashmir Valley and called for immediate steps to ensure peace. “This incident highlights a security lapse. We are not in favour of war. The central government must enhance security measures to maintain peace in Kashmir,” he stated.
His remarks sparked criticism from BJP leader R Ashoka, who accused Siddaramaiah of lacking focus on local security, urging him instead to tackle illegal immigrants in Karnataka.
Meanwhile, the nation continues to mourn the Pahalgam attack victims. In response, India has temporarily suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan. Intelligence agencies have also identified 14 local terrorists linked to Hizbul Mujahideen, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Jaish-e-Mohammed, believed to have assisted the attackers. Security operations have been intensified across South Kashmir with NIA support.
