As I write this article, my heart is anguished by the inhuman terror attack that claimed the lives of innocent civilians in the Baisaran Valley, Kashmir. I offer my heartfelt homage to the victims and extend my deepest condolences to their families. No words can heal their pain, but as a nation, we stand united in mourning and in resolve.
This was not just an attack on civilians but was an assault on the soul of Bharat. The terrorists deliberately segregated and targeted unarmed Hindu tourists, reminding us of the painful price our civilisation continues to pay for standing by its pluralism and openness. The intention behind this attack was not merely to kill, but to terrorise. To frighten citizens away from visiting their own land. To create a psychological siege that keeps Kashmir emotionally and physically distant from the rest of the country.
In difficult times like these, we must remind ourselves that Kashmir, once known as ‘Rishi Vatika’, has been named after Sage Kashyapa. Kashmir is not merely a geographical region, but the very cradle of our spiritual and civilisational journey. From the sacred caves of Amarnath to the ancient Sharada Peeth, every stone in Kashmir resonates with the unyielding truth that Kashmir is, was, and shall forever remain an integral part of Bharat.
Bharat has always walked the path of peace, not out of weakness, but out of wisdom. Our culture teaches us the principle of सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः। (May all be happy; may all be free from suffering). We have always sought good relations with our neighbours, believing that a peaceful subcontinent is the surest path to shared prosperity, dignity and development. From Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s historic Lahore bus trip to Narendra Modi’s unprecedented goodwill visit to Lahore, every effort has been made in good faith. But every time, our trust has been met with betrayal. Kargil happened after Lahore. Pathankot followed Modi’s visit.
This time, the valley of Baisaran bears the scars. While Bharat extends the hand of peace, Pakistan answers with the fist of terror. At moments like this, I am reminded of Lord Krishna’s powerful words in the Mahabharat:
“शान्तिः परमो धर्मः क्षमा च परमा तपः।
यदि ते भवतः शक्तं शमं च कुरु पाण्डव॥
युद्धं चाप्यन्यथा कार्यं धर्म्यं युध्यस्व भारत॥”
(Peace is the highest form of dharma, and forgiveness the greatest virtue. But when peace is no longer possible, then O Pandav, rise and fight! For even war becomes dharma when righteousness is under threat).
Under the decisive leadership of Modi, Bharat has always chosen justice over vengeance. From the precision of surgical strikes to the boldness of Balakot airstrikes, we have shown to the world that we stand prepared, principled and resolute.
This time, too, Modi’s response reflects the same moral clarity and unwavering strength. The hunt for terrorists responsible for the attack has been swift and unrelenting. Diplomatically, the government has taken a calculated step by suspending the Indus Water Treaty, thereby striking at the heart of Pakistan’s predominantly agrarian economy.
Our message to the world is clear. We do not seek conflict, but will not submit to terrorism. Our hand is extended in peace, but it will not tremble when forced to act. We are a civilisation rooted in compassion, but we are also a republic forged in courage and resolve.
Bharat stands tall!
Bharat stands together!
And Bharat shall prevail!
Bansuri Swaraj is the Lok Sabha member from New Delhi.