In a significant move reflecting the gravity of the recent security crisis, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, has officially summoned a special one-day session of the J&K Legislative Assembly. Assembly Special session scheduled for April 28, 2025, this session will focus on deliberating the deadly Pahalgam attack that shook the region and the nation alike.

The order was issued under Section 18(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, which empowers the LG to summon the legislative assembly in matters of urgent public concern.

“I, Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me under section 18(1) of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, do hereby summon the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly to meet at Jammu on Monday, the 28th of April, 2025 at 10:30 AM,” the LG stated in the official communiqué.

Pahalgam Attack Leaves 26 Dead: A National Tragedy

The immediate cause for the special session is the horrific Pahalgam terrorist attack, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians, the majority of whom were tourists visiting the scenic region. This act of violence has sparked widespread outrage and sorrow across the country, raising serious concerns about the state of security in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in popular tourist destinations.

The devastating loss of life and the symbolic impact of targeting a tourist hub have led the administration to call for an urgent discussion on the incident and measures to strengthen public safety.

Cabinet Meeting Led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sets the Stage

The decision to recommend a special assembly session was finalized after a high-level Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The meeting, held on the evening of April 23, 2025, saw consensus among the Council of Ministers on the need to urgently discuss the state’s response to the Pahalgam attack, future preventive strategies, and improved coordination among security agencies.

This meeting marked a rare moment of political unity, where leaders across party lines acknowledged the urgency of restoring public confidence and ensuring that such tragedies are not repeated.

Key Issues to be Discussed in the Assembly Session

The upcoming assembly session is expected to feature comprehensive debates on the following key concerns:

• Security Gaps: Analysis of the breach that allowed such a large-scale attack to occur.
• Tourist Safety Protocols: Establishing updated safety guidelines for tourists and travelers in high-risk areas.
• Counter-Terrorism Measures: Strengthening intelligence and rapid response systems.
• Support for Victims’ Families: Financial and psychological aid to the affected families.
• Restoring Normalcy in Pahalgam: Measures to revive tourism and local businesses in the wake of the attack.

Call for Unity and Accountability in the Aftermath

Officials believe that the assembly session will be an opportunity not only to scrutinize existing policies but also to forge a unified political and administrative front against terror threats. It aims to foster accountability while assuring the public that the safety and security of all residents and visitors to J&K is a top priority.

A senior official commented, “This session must go beyond statements. We need to review, reform, and reassure. The public deserves clarity, action, and resolution.”

National and International Attention on J&K’s Response

Given the global popularity of Kashmir as a tourist destination, especially Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg, this tragedy has drawn international media coverage and concern from foreign embassies. The government is under pressure to not only handle the aftermath diplomatically but to ensure robust counter-terrorism mechanisms are in place.

Civil Society and Local Voices Call for Peace and Justice

Various civil society groups, local leaders, and business stakeholders in Pahalgam have urged the administration to ensure that the incident does not impact the peaceful environment and the local economy of Kashmir. Many are calling for transparent investigations and proactive policy changes.

A joint statement from a group of Pahalgam residents reads, “Terrorism has no place in our land. We welcome any step that ensures safety, justice for victims, and protection for our livelihood.”

As the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir navigates one of its most painful incidents in recent times, the April 28 special session of the J&K Assembly will serve as a crucial platform to reassess strategies, rebuild trust, and present a cohesive security and development roadmap.

The entire nation, particularly the people of Jammu and Kashmir, will be watching closely—hoping for leadership that not only responds to tragedy but also prevents future ones.