Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has ignited fresh controversy after blaming the Indian Army for its alleged failure in preventing the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks, made during a televised interview, have drawn strong backlash from Indian citizens and media alike.
“Inefficient and Useless”: Afridi Targets Indian Forces for Pahalgam attack
During a discussion on Samaa TV, Afridi directly questioned the capabilities of the Indian armed forces stationed in Kashmir. Referring to the massive military presence in the region, he said:
“You have an 800,000-strong army in Kashmir and this still happened? It means you are inefficient and useless if you couldn’t provide security to the people.”
Afridi’s comments have sparked widespread condemnation across Indian social media platforms and news outlets, with many accusing him of being insensitive and politically provocative during a period of national mourning.
Media Criticism and Pakistan Denial
Afridi: “Indian Media Turned Into Bollywood”
Afridi also criticized the Indian media’s immediate coverage of the April 22 attack, suggesting that television networks dramatized the tragedy:
“It’s surprising that within an hour of the attack, their media turned into Bollywood. For God’s sake, don’t make everything Bollywood.”
He further accused Indian outlets of consistently blaming Pakistan without proper investigation or evidence, saying, “Even if a firecracker bursts there, they blame it on Pakistan.”
The Pahalgam Terror Attack: What Happened
Militant Strike in Baisaran Valley Kills 26
On April 22, 2025, five heavily armed militants attacked a group of tourists in Baisaran Valley, a scenic location in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region. The incident left 26 civilians dead and 20 others injured.
Initial Claim and Retraction by The Resistance Front
The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, initially claimed responsibility for the attack. However, the group later retracted the statement, leading to confusion and speculation regarding the true perpetrators. Security forces are continuing investigations into the matter.
Public and Political Response
India Condemns Afridi’s Remarks
Afridi’s comments have been widely condemned in India by former cricketers, politicians, and citizens who see them as inflammatory and disrespectful to the victims and armed forces. While the Indian government has yet to make an official response, many voices have labeled his statement a form of political provocation during a sensitive time.
Tensions Remain High Between India and Pakistan
As India continues to mourn the lives lost in the Pahalgam attack, Afridi’s remarks have added fuel to long-standing India-Pakistan tensions over Kashmir. With no diplomatic dialogue currently underway, such public statements from influential personalities threaten to deepen the divide between the two nations.
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