Himachal BJP leader & Kargil war hero Khushal Thakur demands second surgical strike to avenge Pahalgam

Mandi: The Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir on tourists has sparked a wave of national outrage, with demands growing louder for a strong response against Pakistan.
Among those advocating for a firm retaliation is BJP leader and retired Brigadier Khushal Thakur, a decorated war hero of the 1999 Kargil War.

Brig Thakur, a resident of Nagwain in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, described the attack as “deeply saddening” and a “cowardly act” by Pakistan.
Speaking on the incident, he said, “After the abrogation of Article 370 and 35A, Jammu and Kashmir was finally witnessing peaceful tourism and economic revival. This attack is not just on tourists, but on the livelihood of countless locals who depend on tourism.”

Calling for a second surgical strike, similar to the 2019 Balakot operation, he said, “The Indian Army must respond firmly. This was a planned attack targeting innocent civilians in remote areas and is completely unacceptable.”

Attack timed with US dignitary’s visit

Brigadier Thakur also pointed out the suspicious timing of the attack, which coincided with the visit of US Vice-President JD Vance to India.

“This is no coincidence. Pakistan wants to send a message through these acts of terror,” he claimed.
He further alleged that Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir orchestrated the operation. “This is not just another terror strike. It’s a larger geopolitical signal and India must not take it lightly,” he warned.

Decorated soldier’s legacy and continued patriotism

Khushal Thakur is a celebrated military veteran known for leading the 18 Grenadiers during the Kargil War, where his unit captured the strategic Tololing peak.
His battalion received the highest number of gallantry awards during the conflict and he himself was honoured with the Yudh Seva Medal.

Though he entered politics and contested the Mandi Lok Sabha by-election on the BJP ticket, he was defeated by Congress leader Pratibha Singh, who is now the Himachal Pradesh Congress president.

TNR News Network