West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her deep affection for Jammu and Kashmir and her intent to visit the state in October, following a meeting with Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at Nabanna in Kolkata on Thursday. The meeting, the first since the deadly Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, focused on strengthening ties and addressing security concerns.
"I extend my warm greetings and love with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He has taken the trouble to come and meet me even after the Pahalgam incident. I have accepted his invitation. After Puja, I will try to visit Kashmir," Banerjee said, signalling her plans to travel to the region in October post the Durga Puja festivities. She emphasised the region's appeal, stating, "Kashmir is such a beautiful place," and encouraged tourism, assuring, "I want our people to visit Kashmir, there’s no reason to worry. Omar Abdullah has said that he will take care of the security."
Banerjee highlighted her proactive support for Jammu and Kashmir, noting that after the Pahalgam attack and ‘Operation Sindoor’, she sent a delegation to meet victims in Poonch and other affected areas impacted by Pakistan’s shelling. "I am a great fan of Kashmir. I respect the women of Kashmir. I love Kashmir," she affirmed
Addressing security, Banerjee subtly pointed to the Centre’s responsibility, stating, "Government of India also must take care of the tourists. Because the law and order is not with the state government. The security forces come under the Centre. The government must ensure their security. It’s their responsibility. If need be, the Government of India must set a meeting with Omar Abdullah and fix things."
Banerjee’s party Trinamool Congress (TMC) had been consistently raising questions on alleged intelligence failures that potentially led to the dastardly attack. TMC national general secretary has time and again questions as how did the terrorists enter India and executed their attack without any resistance. Similarly Mamata Banerjee had previously slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi of using the military operation against Pakistan for politics and political gains.
