Kashmir leaders highlight 'harassment' of Kashmiris, call for their safety after Pahalgam terror attack triggers backlash across India

After the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead, mostly tourists, concerns are rising about the safety of Kashmiris across different states in India. Several political leaders have spoken out, urging authorities to protect Kashmiri students, traders and workers from targeted harassment and threats.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said his government was in touch with governments of states where Kashmiris were allegedly being harassed in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

"The J&K government is in touch with the governments of the states where these reports are originating from. I'm also in touch with my counterpart Chief Ministers in these states & have requested they take extra care," Abdullah posted on X.

He was responding to a post by ruling National Conference spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar seeking Abdullah's intervention after videos of Kashmiris being allegedly harassed emerged on social media.

"Numerous videos showing Kashmiri students nationwide terrified for their safety are being widely shared on social media. Requesting @CM_JnK @OmarAbdullah sb to immediately intervene and speak to his counterparts across the country," Dar said in his post on X.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also expressed concern and reached out to Union Home Minister Amit Shah for intervention.

"Spoke with Home Minister @AmitShahji to extend my deepest condolences & also express solidarity with bereaved families of the Pahalgam terror attack. We stand with the nation in this hour of mourning. Also requested him to intervene in the wake of certain elements openly threatening Kashmiri students & traders across various states. Urged him to intervene without delay to ensure their safety & protection wherever such incidents are being reported," she said.

Reports have emerged that the Hindu Raksha Dal has allegedly threatened Kashmiri Muslims in Dehradun, warning them to leave the area within a day or face consequences.

People's Conference president Sajad Lone also called on the Centre to act.

"There have been many incidents across the country wherein Kashmiri students are being harassed, beaten up, bullied and even asked to vacate their residential premises. I request the union government to please ensure the safety of Kashmiri students," Lone posted on X.

Inputs from agencies