Samajwadi Party Maharashtra President, Abu Asim Azmi, has raised serious doubts over the timing and credibility of the alleged encounter in which three youth were killed in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. His remarks come amid the heated debate over "Operation Sindoor" in Indian parliament. 

According to Kashmir Media Service, Azmi, in a media interview in Mumbai, questioned how all three alleged militants—accused in the April 22 Pahalgam attack—were “conveniently” neutralised on the very day when Indian Home Minister Amit Shah addressed parliament on the operation. “Did the militants know parliament would be discussing Operation Sindoor and decide to gather on the same day? This raises serious concerns,” Azmi said. 

He further criticised the prolonged silence of authorities since the attack, despite Kashmir being under intense surveillance and military presence. “It’s shocking how the attackers managed to escape unharmed in such a heavily guarded zone,” he added.  Azmi raised further concerns: “If these militants were truly Pakistani nationals, why weren’t they captured alive? That would have provided solid evidence. With all three dead, the government’s version remains unverified.” 

He pointed out contradictions in India’s response: “When the attack happened, the public stood behind the government. There was talk of war. Yet, instead of retaliation, a ceasefire was announced. Now, the government is preparing for cricket matches with the same country it accuses of terror?”  Azmi’s comments come as growing sections of civil society, rights activists, and opposition leaders accuse the Modi-led regime of politicising Indian security.

Former Indian Minister P. Chidambaram also expressed scepticism, saying the narrative that the attackers were from Pakistan remained unproven.  On the international front, Azmi voiced concern over India's muted response to the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza. “If we believe in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we must speak up against Israeli aggression. Starving children, bombed civilians – this is not the time for silence,” he said. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)