Bihar's Leader of the Opposition, Tejashwi Yadav, has lambasted the Central government in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, labeling it a "total breakdown of intelligence operations" and calling for accountability regarding what he termed a grave lapse in national security.
In light of the terror incident that occurred in the heavily secured area of Pahalgam, Yadav raised concerns about how terrorists were able to infiltrate the region despite its stringent security measures.
“There were 2,000 tourists present. It’s a location that is inaccessible by vehicles you can only trek or use horses. How did the terrorists manage to get there with multiple military checkpoints in place. Yadav questioned.
He criticized the government for its inability to guarantee the safety of civilians in such a critical area, asking: “Where was the intelligence? Who will be held accountable for this oversight.
Yadav accused the government of misusing intelligence and investigative agencies for political purposes rather than focusing on national security.
“Intelligence and investigation agencies are being directed against opposition leaders. But where are they when the nation truly requires protection. he remarked.
He also drew comparisons to the 2019 Pulwama attack, reiterating concerns over alleged security failures and a lack of transparency.
“During the Pulwama incident, we raised similar inquiries. What has become of that investigation? How did 200-300 kg of RDX make its way there, leading to the martyrdom of many soldiers. he questioned.
Yadav stressed the public's right to be informed about the actions taken and the outcomes of the Pulwama attack investigation.
Joining other opposition figures, Tejashwi is demanding clarity and accountability following the Pahalgam tragedy, even as the ruling party pledges strict measures against those responsible.
Yadav escalated his criticism of the central government, highlighting a troubling trend of terror incidents in Kashmir since 2014, with the recent Pahalgam attack serving as yet another example of systemic failure.
He stated that there have been 3,982 terrorist attacks in Kashmir over the last decade, resulting in the deaths of 413 civilians and 630 security personnel.
“Who will take responsibility for this serious oversight.he questioned, accusing the government of failing in both intelligence and emergency response.
Citing a poignant account from the sister of Navy Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, a victim of the attack, Tejashwi said: “He survived for one and a half hours. Yet, he did not receive any assistance.
He highlighted the lack of security forces in an area designated as a high-security zone, given its closeness to the border.