Karnal (Haryana) – The grieving family of Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, an Indian Navy officer killed in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday, has urged the government to take firm and uncompromising action to eradicate terrorism.
The Aryavarth Express
Lt Narwal, who was recently married and had been posted in Kochi, was on leave and vacationing with his wife in Pahalgam when terrorists opened fire. The young officer, a native of Haryana, had celebrated his wedding reception just four days before the attack.
Speaking through tears, his grandfather Hawa Singh made a passionate plea: “We request the government to give the attackers the strictest punishment and end terrorism by any means necessary.”
Neighbours described the shock and sorrow that swept through their community, recalling the recent celebrations. “Just a few days ago, there was joy all around. Today, we are mourning,” said a neighbour.
Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R. Hari Kumar, in a statement issued by the Indian Navy, expressed profound sorrow over the loss. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Navy wrote, “Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, CNS, and all personnel of the Indian Navy are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Lt Vinay Narwal, who fell to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this moment of unimaginable grief.”
The post further added, “The Indian Navy stands in solemn solidarity with all others who lost their lives in this heinous act of violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, and we pray for the swift recovery of those injured.”
Haryana MLA Jagmohan Anand visited the bereaved family to offer condolences, strongly condemning the attack. “This incident must serve as a wake-up call. I urge the Prime Minister to take bold action. PoK should be brought under India’s control so that the world sees the strength of this government,” he said. “Even God will not forgive such brutality. The people of Kashmir must rise against this terrorism—it is hurting their future as well.”
Chief Minister of Haryana, Nayab Singh Saini, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “This attack is deeply unfortunate. The government stands firmly with the families of the victims. Those behind this barbaric act must face strict consequences.”
The tragic incident is one of the deadliest since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. Security has been intensified across the region, with search operations underway to track down those responsible. Visuals from Pahalgam show deserted streets in what is typically a bustling tourist destination.
State authorities have also stepped in to support the return of victims and tourists to their home states, with coffins of the deceased brought to Srinagar airport. Several state leaders have arrived in Srinagar to assist in the process.
Many local organisations have called for a bandh in Jammu in response to the attack, as the nation collectively mourns the loss of innocent lives.