Karnal (Haryana) [India], April 23 (HBTV): The grief-stricken grandfather of Indian Navy officer Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, who lost his life in the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, has appealed to the government to take decisive steps to eliminate terrorism.

‘We request that the government give such people (attackers) strict punishment and end terrorism by any means necessary,’ said Hawa Singh, Lieutenant Narwal’s grandfather, in a heavy voice.

Lt Narwal, who was posted in Kochi, had travelled to Jammu and Kashmir on leave and was in Pahalgam with his wife when terrorists opened fire. The young officer, a native of Haryana, had recently tied the knot, with his wedding reception held just days earlier on April 16.

‘He was married just a few days back; four days ago, it was his reception, and there was a celebration all over here. Today, we come to know that terrorists have killed him,’ said one of Narwal’s neighbours.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, in a statement shared by the Indian Navy, expressed deep sorrow over the officer’s death.

‘Adm Dinesh K Tripathi, CNS, and all personnel of the Indian Navy are shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Lt Vinay Narwal, who fell to the dastardly terror attack in Pahalgam. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family during this moment of unimaginable grief,’ read the Indian Navy’s post on X.

The Navy further stated: ‘The Indian Navy also stands in solemn solidarity with all others who lost their lives in this heinous act of violence. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, and we pray for the swift recovery of those injured.’

Haryana MLA Jagmohan Anand visited the bereaved family in Karnal to offer condolences and express solidarity.

‘This tragic incident cannot be condemned enough... I appeal to the Prime Minister that the time has come to teach a lesson to the land from which terrorism is flourishing. PoK should be made a part of India so that the country gets the message that there is a capable government in the country... Even God will not forgive them (attackers) for such brutal murders. The people of Kashmir will also have to come out on the streets and unite against this incident because their livelihood has also been affected,’ Anand said.

(ANI)