Tributes pour in for Lt Vinay Narwal

People from all walks of life continue to visit the residence of Lt Vinay Narwal, the Navy officer killed in a brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, to offer their condolences. Visitors included political leaders from various parties, such as Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan, Congress MP from Sirsa Kumari Selja, INLD state president Rampal Majra, and INLD leader Sunaina Chautala. MS Bitta, chairman of the All India Anti-Terrorist Front, also offered his condolences.

Haryana Assembly Speaker Kalyan expressed his support for the grieving family, saying, “We stand by the family in their hour of grief.” He welcomed the state government’s decision to offer Rs 50 lakh in compensation and a government job to a family member, noting the seriousness of the attack had been recognised by the highest authorities, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. “Those responsible will not be spared,” Kalyan asserted.

Speaking about security lapses, Kalyan said the attack occurred at a tourist location, where security arrangements are tailored to local needs. However, he acknowledged the need for deeper concern over how the incident unfolded.

Congress MP Kumari Selja condemned the attack as “inhuman,” stating, “Those who committed this heinous crime cannot even be called human beings.” She praised the bravery of Lt Vinay’s family, adding, “The nation must learn from the courage shown by this family.” Avoiding political commentary, she called for calm and unity, emphasising India’s strength lies in its cultural diversity. “India is a vast nation where people of every religion, caste, and culture live together,” she said.

MS Bitta called for a national response united in strength. “The truest tribute today is not about raising slogans like ‘Take back PoK’. The time has come for all of us to become true Indians, like the spirit we see in Israel,” he stated, recalling emotional moments during the Israel conflict when citizens showed unwavering support for their nation.

INLD state president Rampal Majra, reflecting on the aftermath of Article 370’s abrogation, said there were expectations of peace in Kashmir, but terrorism continues to pose a threat. He welcomed the government’s financial assistance and job offer to the family.

INLD leader Sunaina Chautala paid tribute to Lt. Vinay’s sacrifice, saying, “It takes a lifetime of sacrifices for a mother to raise a son like Vinay Narwal, who brings pride to the nation.” She expressed sorrow over his death, particularly for his young wife, who had been married just six days before the tragedy. Chautala also criticised the security measures at the site of the attack and questioned whether lessons had been learned from incidents like Pulwama. She called for stronger security protocols in sensitive areas.

Haryana Tribune