New Delhi, June 10: The Congress party has launched a scathing attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah following a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and continued unrest in Manipur. The party questioned Shah’s earlier assertions that the Modi government had “established peace” across the country, particularly in conflict-prone regions.

The criticism comes in the wake of a deadly terrorist ambush in Pahalgam on Sunday, where five army personnel were martyred and several others injured. The attack, reportedly carried out by Pakistan-based militants, marks a significant security breach in a region that has seen a rise in targeted violence in recent months.

Congress Questions Timing and Validity of Shah’s Claim

Addressing a press conference on Monday, senior Congress leader Pawan Khera said, “Just a few days ago, Amit Shah claimed that the Modi government had established peace in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeast. But what peace is he talking about when soldiers are dying in Pahalgam and people in Manipur are still living in fear?”

Khera pointed out that Shah had recently referred to the government’s efforts in Jammu and Kashmir and Manipur as major achievements during the Lok Sabha election campaign. “His peace narrative crumbles in the face of facts on the ground,” Khera added.

Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Reality Check?

On June 9, terrorists ambushed an army convoy in the high-security Pahalgam area of Anantnag district. The attack reportedly involved the use of grenades and automatic rifles, catching the convoy off-guard in a densely forested stretch. Intelligence sources suspect the involvement of Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives who recently infiltrated the region through the Line of Control.

The terror attack has once again raised serious concerns about the security apparatus in the Valley, especially when the Amarnath Yatra is around the corner. This incident marks the third major terror strike in Kashmir in the last 30 days, signaling a worrisome trend.

Manipur: Still in Turmoil

Meanwhile, the situation in Manipur continues to deteriorate, with ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki communities showing no signs of resolution. Over 200 people have been killed and thousands displaced since clashes erupted in May 2023. Despite repeated assurances from the Centre, peace remains elusive in the northeastern state.

Congress leaders criticized Amit Shah for what they called “gross inaction” in Manipur, arguing that the central government has failed to take decisive steps to restore normalcy. “The Home Minister’s silence on Manipur for months has only emboldened violent elements,” said Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi.

BJP Defends Shah, Calls Attacks ‘Political Opportunism’

In response, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) defended Amit Shah and accused the Congress of politicizing national security. BJP spokesperson Sambit Patra said, “Terror attacks are unfortunate and being addressed with seriousness. Congress should not question the intent of a government that has eliminated thousands of terrorists in the last 10 years.”

Patra added that the Centre has been actively engaged in Manipur through security forces and relief measures. “Instead of spreading negativity, the Congress should support the government’s efforts to bring peace,” he said.

Experts Warn of Resurgent Militancy

Security analysts believe the recent Pahalgam attack points to a resurgent wave of militancy in Kashmir. With Pakistan’s internal instability pushing militant groups to revive cross-border operations, experts warn of more such ambushes in the coming months.

“J&K remains volatile. The claim of total peace is misleading when sleeper cells are still active,” said retired Lt Gen D.S. Hooda, former Northern Army Commander. He emphasized the need for strong intelligence coordination and better ground-level vigilance.

Opposition to Raise Issue in Parliament

Congress and several opposition parties are planning to raise the twin issues of the Pahalgam terror attack and Manipur violence in the upcoming Parliament session. They are expected to demand a comprehensive discussion on internal security and the Home Minister’s accountability.

“This is not just about politics. It’s about the safety of our soldiers and the unity of our nation,” said Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh.