In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives on April 22, the Indian National Congress has called for a special session of Parliament to showcase national unity and a resolute stand against terrorism.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, urged the government to immediately convene both Houses of Parliament to deliberate on the attack and demonstrate a united front.

"In this moment, when unity and solidarity are essential, the Opposition believes it is important to convene a special session of Parliament at the earliest," Kharge wrote. He added, "This will be a powerful demonstration of our collective resolve and will to deal with the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on innocent citizens on April 22, 2025. It is our fond hope that the session will be accordingly convened."

The call for a special session comes amid heightened political attention on national security and India's response to terrorism. Widespread public mourning and growing demands for a firm political response have dominated the national discourse since the attack.

Earlier in the day, the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly held its own special session to formally condemn the Pahalgam terror incident. Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary moved a resolution condemning the attack, with Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather opening the proceedings by honoring the victims and emphasizing the need for national unity.

The assembly unanimously adopted the resolution, which also endorsed the diplomatic measures announced by the Union Government after its Cabinet Committee on Security meeting. Following the resolution’s adoption, the assembly session was adjourned sine die.

The terror attack in Pahalgam has once again put national security at the center of India's political agenda, with opposition and ruling parties both recognizing the need for a cohesive and swift response.