Union Minister Piyush Goyal has strongly stated that attacks like the recent Pahalgam massacre will continue to haunt the nation unless every one of India's 140 crore citizens places patriotism and nationalism at the heart of their duties.

Speaking to the media on Friday, Mr. Goyal underscored that these acts of terror will never succeed in breaking India’s resolve. He expressed confidence that the collective will of the people will soon revive tourism in Kashmir and ensure that the sacred Amarnath Yatra proceeds uninterrupted.

Goyal pointed out that India's growing global influence is unsettling certain hostile elements. "These attacks are nothing but the desperate final acts of those rattled by India's rise. Though this attack is deeply painful, we assure the nation — the culprits will not go unpunished," he said.

Reiterating his message, he added, "Until patriotism and nationalism become the foremost duty of every Indian, we will continue facing such sorrowful events. I firmly believe that India's surging global prominence is causing discomfort among those who wish to see us weakened."

Highlighting India’s progress in tackling internal threats, Mr. Goyal drew parallels between the ongoing crackdown on naxalism and the government’s resolve to defeat terrorism. "Just as we are steadily eradicating naxal violence, terrorism too will be crushed. India's determination is unwavering," he asserted.

On the issue of Pakistani nationals overstaying their visas, Mr. Goyal made it clear: "We have already instructed them to leave. Illegal stay in India will not be tolerated under any circumstances."

Responding to concerns that the terror attack might disrupt tourism in Kashmir, Goyal offered reassurance: "The spirit, strength, and resilience of Bharat’s people will overcome this. Tourism will bounce back, the Amarnath Yatra will continue without interruption, and Kashmir’s journey toward development will not be derailed."

The tragic attack on April 22 saw terrorists open fire indiscriminately at a popular meadow in Pahalgam, killing 26 people, most of them tourists. In the aftermath of the brutal assault, India initiated a series of diplomatic countermeasures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan.

Source: News Agencies