Bengaluru, Apr 23 (UNI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Wednesday urged the Centre to convene an all-party meeting in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of three individuals from Karnataka.

Describing the incident as "serious and shocking", Shivakumar said the attack had shaken the nation and drawn global attention. "This is not merely a regional issue, it impacts national security, international relations, tourism, and the confidence of the common citizen. Immediate and decisive action is needed," he told reporters.

The senior Congress leader strongly condemned the attack, calling Pahalgam a significant and sensitive location. "Any terrorist strike, particularly one with religious undertones, causes irreparable harm to the unity and image of the country," he said.

He affirmed the Congress party's support for the government in combating terrorism. "We stand by the government in its efforts to dismantle such terrorist organisations, regardless of where they originate. They must be eradicated entirely," the Deputy CM asserted.

Shivakumar said the Karnataka government had deputed Santosh Lad to Jammu and Kashmir to assess the situation and support the victims' families. "I have personally spoken to the bereaved families. Our ministers and district officials have also visited them to offer condolences," he said.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, who also condemned the attack, confirmed that three people from Karnataka were among those killed. "I spoke to the Civil Aviation Minister yesterday, and an additional flight has been arranged to assist those affected in returning to Karnataka," he said.

Joshi described the attack as a deliberate attempt to disrupt tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. "This is a calculated act of terrorism aimed at damaging the region's tourism industry. The government is taking all necessary precautions and will act resolutely," he stated.

Shivakumar further emphasised the need to restore peace and public confidence in Kashmir. "This is the first time we are seeing an incident of this scale, carried out in the name of religion. It is deeply distressing and raises serious concerns about the country's direction," he remarked.

Both leaders expressed their condolences to the families of the victims and assured them of full government support. "We pray for the families’ strength during this difficult time and stand united with them," the Deputy CM said.

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