Abhishek Banerjee calls for 'reclaiming of PoK', slams 'politics' over terror attack

Tensions continue to simmer after the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, with political leaders stepping up their rhetoric. Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee took to social media to sharply criticize the Union Government and the mainstream media for their handling of the aftermath.

In a strongly worded tweet, Banerjee accused both the government and media houses of focusing more on political gains rather than investigating the serious lapses that led to the terror attack. “Instead of deeply investigating the lapses that led to this unprecedented terror attack in Pahalgam, they seem more focused on pushing a narrative that benefits a particular political party," he wrote.

Banerjee further stated that this is not the time for symbolic actions like surgical strikes or hollow threats. Instead, he called for decisive action, asserting that it is time to "teach them a lesson" and "reclaim Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK)." His message resonated with many on social media, while also igniting a fierce political debate.

Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions are rising on another front. The Indian government has tightened visa norms for Pakistani nationals following the Pahalgam incident. The deadline for SAARC visa holders expired on April 26, and other Pakistani nationals, except those with medical visas, must leave by April 27. Those on medical visas have until April 29.

Scenes at the Attari border reflected the human cost of these decisions. Many Pakistani nationals who had visited India after decades were now being forced into a sudden and emotional departure. Families were seen tearfully bidding goodbye, lamenting their shortened stays.