Time to Teach Pakistan a Lesson, Reclaim PoK: Abhishek Banerjee

Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader and Member of Parliament Abhishek Banerjee has made a bold statement following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people. In the wake of this tragedy, Banerjee called for decisive action against Pakistan, advocating for the reclamation of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). His comments, which came after the brutal attack in Kashmir, have stirred political discourse, raising questions about India’s strategy in dealing with terrorism emanating from across the border.

Abhishek Banerjee

A Call for Stronger Action

Banerjee's remarks focused on the need for a shift in India's approach, emphasizing that it is "time to rise above petty politics and confront the issue decisively once and for all." He condemned what he sees as the media and government’s prioritization of political narratives over addressing security lapses, which he believes led to the devastating attack.

"It's time to teach Pakistan a lesson in the language they understand," Banerjee stated. He added that it is no longer the time for symbolic actions like surgical strikes, but for a more assertive step toward reclaiming PoK, a region India has long claimed but Pakistan administers. His call for reclaiming PoK resonates with some factions within India who view it as a necessary step to reclaim territory that has been under Pakistani control since the 1947 partition.

The Pahalgam Attack and its Aftermath

The Pahalgam terror attack, which took place on April 22, 2025, in Kashmir’s Baisaran area, was one of the deadliest in recent years. The attack targeted civilians, most of whom were tourists, and left the nation in shock. In his response, Banerjee emphasized that the investigation into the attack should not be sidelined by political considerations. "Instead of focusing on investigating the security lapses and the causes of the attack, the government and media seem to be pushing a political agenda," he stated.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a separate address, assured the nation that the perpetrators of the attack would face the harshest punishment. He reinforced that national unity and solidarity in the fight against terrorism would be the nation's strength. Modi also expressed his commitment to delivering justice for the victims of the attack.

A Divisive Debate

Banerjee's call to reclaim PoK has sparked a heated debate, with some supporting his stance on taking a stronger stand against Pakistan, while others caution against such a radical move, warning it could escalate tensions further. The political climate remains tense, with accusations of politicizing national security and calls for a united front against terrorism.

Banerjee’s comments reflect a growing frustration among certain political groups who feel that the government’s approach to national security is not aggressive enough. However, such statements also raise questions about the broader diplomatic implications of openly calling for territorial reclamation and what that might mean for future relations between the two countries.

The Road Ahead

As the investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack continues, and the country mourns the loss of innocent lives, it remains to be seen whether Banerjee’s call for reclaiming PoK will gain traction. What is certain, however, is that the issue of national security, particularly in Kashmir, will continue to be at the forefront of political discourse in India.

Prime Minister Modi’s strong message and the call for justice, coupled with Banerjee’s provocative comments, set the stage for a more intense political and diplomatic battle in the days ahead. Whether the Indian government will take steps to act on the TMC leader's suggestions or pursue a more measured response remains to be seen.