The Congress Working Committee (CWC) paid tribute to the innocent lives lost in Pahalgam. (image-X/INCIndia)

New Delhi: Condemning the “cowardly and calculated” Pahalgam terror attack, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) on Thursday slammed the Modi-led central government for its “intelligence failures” and “security lapses” in the region in Jammu and Kashmir.

Describing the terrorist attack as a “direct assault on the values of our Republic”, the CWC extended its condolences to the bereaved families. In its statement, the CWC called the attack a “mastermind by Pakistan”, and appealed the public to remain calm in the face of “grave provocation.”

Also Read | “Terrorism Will Not Go Unpunished”: PM Modi On Pahalgam Terror Attack

“The deliberate targeting of Hindus was done to inflame passions across the country,” stated the CWC, the highest decision-making body of the party.

Accusing the government of ‘enabling’ the terror attack, the CWC highlighted that Pahalgam is known to be a heavily guarded area, secured by a three-tier security arrangement. The CWC demanded a comprehensive analysis of the “security lapses” in the Union Territory, which, it pointed out, was directly under the purview of the Union Home Ministry.

The Pahalgam terror attack is considered to be the deadliest attack on civilians since the Mumbai terror attack in 2008.

“These questions must be raised in the larger public interest. This is the only way justice can truly be seen to be served for the families whose lives have been so brutally devastated,” it stated.

It also brought attention to the upcoming Amarnath yatra, where lakhs of pilgrims from across the country participate. The CWC demanded the pilgrims’ safety to be considered as a national priority and proactive security arrangements to be deployed without delay.

The resolution also expressed shock that the BJP is “exploiting this grave tragedy through official and proxy social media platforms to sow further discord, mistrust, polarisation and division at a time when unity and solidarity is most needed.”

The CWC also paid tributes to the local ponywalas and tourist guides, one of whom was killed while trying to protect tourists.

Also Read | “Undemocratic”: Owaisi Criticises Centre’s All-Party Meeting Criteria

The meeting was attended by leaders, including Parliamentary Party leader Sonia Gandhi, former president Rahul Gandhi, and party general secretary KC Venugopal.

The Congress will hold candle marches across the country on April 25 to pay homage to the victims of the attack and protest against terrorist activities.