In a first-of-its-kind move, the Jammu and Kashmir government, headed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, convened a special cabinet meeting in Pahalgam today. This step comes in the aftermath of a devastating terror attack that left 26 civilians dead, which sent shockwaves across the region and dealt a major blow to the already fragile tourism sector of Kashmir.

This marks the first time in this government’s tenure that a cabinet meeting has been held outside the traditional seats of power—Srinagar in the summer and Jammu in the winter. The move is not just administrative; it is deeply symbolic, aiming to counter fear, assert normalcy, and push back against the forces of terror that seek to destabilise the region.

The Symbolism of Holding the Meeting in Pahalgam

According to government officials and political analysts, the venue of the cabinet meeting sends a powerful message. While the specific agenda of the meeting was kept confidential, officials stated that its core purpose was symbolic—to demonstrate that violence will not disrupt governance or public life in Jammu and Kashmir.

In the backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack, this bold move signals resilience and continuity in governance. It also reflects a commitment to restore faith among locals and tourists alike that the region is safe and functional.

A Dual Strategy to Revive Tourism and Normalcy

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, addressing the press over the weekend, proposed a two-pronged strategy to resuscitate the tourism industry in Kashmir, which has suffered drastically due to the terror strike.

1. The first proposal calls on Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) to hold their official meetings in Kashmir. This initiative aims to drive footfall and rebuild trust, showing that government agencies are ready to operate in the region as usual.

2. The second component urges the Central Government to facilitate parliamentary committee meetings in Kashmir, further enhancing the region’s integration into national policymaking processes.

The CM is hopeful that these measures will generate economic momentum, build public confidence, and draw tourists back to Kashmir.

No Political Mileage: Omar Abdullah’s Ethical Stand

In his 26-minute address during the cabinet session, Omar Abdullah took a principled stand, refusing to politicise the tragedy. He made it clear that he would not exploit the terror attack to demand the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. "This is not the time for cheap politics," he said, underscoring his commitment to statesmanship over opportunism.

This was a notable deviation from the typical political discourse, especially in sensitive times, earning him appreciation across party lines and among civil society members.

Farooq Abdullah Adds to the Momentum

Veteran politician and JKNC President Farooq Abdullah added a touch of normalcy and optimism to the day’s proceedings. He was spotted playing golf at the scenic Pahalgam Golf Course, a deliberate move to demonstrate safety and leisure in the area.

Farooq Abdullah later addressed the media, stating, "There was an atmosphere of fear, but I feel now the atmosphere has reduced to a large extent." He cited his visit to Gulmarg, where he reportedly saw 400-500 tourists, as evidence that tourism is gradually bouncing back.

His presence, along with the CM's initiatives, paints a positive picture of the government's proactive stance on restoring normalcy.

Impact on Local Sentiment and Economy

Kashmir’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with destinations like Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg serving as major attractions for domestic and international tourists. The Pahalgam terror attack threatened to undo years of effort to revive this key sector.

But by relocating the cabinet meeting to the site of the attack, and by proposing institutional visits and engagements, the government is attempting to reassure locals and stakeholders that the valley is not on the brink—instead, it's standing tall and pushing forward.

Security Steps Also in Focus

Though not officially outlined in the meeting agenda, officials have hinted at tightening security protocols across tourist zones. Local police, along with paramilitary forces, have been instructed to increase patrolling, set up checkpoints, and enhance intelligence sharing to thwart future threats.

These measures are being taken quietly but effectively, so as not to scare away tourists, while still maintaining heightened vigilance.

What This Means for the Broader Kashmir Narrative

At a time when Kashmir often makes headlines for terror attacks, militancy, or political controversies, today’s cabinet meeting sends out a strong counter-narrative. It communicates that governance continues, the government is in control, and Kashmir is open for business—not just in terms of administration, but also for tourism and investment.

The focus on non-confrontational politics, symbolic governance, and real steps towards restoring normalcy indicates a mature, calculated approach by the Abdullah government.

Looking Ahead: More Meetings, More Confidence

As the CM’s plan unfolds, we can expect to see PSUs and central government entities making appearances in the region. The success of this initiative could determine how fast tourism regains its footing, and whether fear gives way to familiarity for visitors across India and abroad.

If these symbolic and administrative steps bear fruit, it may well be seen as a case study in crisis management and regional stability in conflict-prone zones.

In Conclusion

The special cabinet meeting in Pahalgam, the calls for official engagements by PSUs, and the public gestures by political leaders represent a multi-dimensional push to reclaim normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir.

By choosing symbolism over politics, and action over rhetoric, the J&K government has taken a meaningful step in rebuilding both domestic trust and international perception. And in a region as sensitive as Kashmir, every step toward normalcy is a leap toward peace.

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