Congressional Statements

Wilson Condemns Terrorist Attack in Kashmir

Statement in House of Representatives
May 16, 2002

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to condemn the recent terrorist attack in Kashmir that killed 30 innocent civilians, including two dozen women and children, and which injured nearly 50 more. This terrorist attack is yet another aimed at civilians, specifically Hindus, in Kashmir. Just last month, the suicide squad attacked and killed innocent worshipers at one of the largest Hindu temples in Kashmir.

Innocent Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims have been targeted by terrorists in Kashmir. An editorial in yesterday´s Washington Post entitled "The General´s Broken Promise" states that Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has not done enough to rein in these terrorists who attack Kashmiri civilians. While President Musharraf has taken steps to assist the American war on terrorism, he must do more to stop these terrorist attacks from occurring in Kashmir and in Indian.

Once Pakistan moves away from the path of supporting terrorism, a real peace initiative can begin between India and Pakistan. After more than 50 years of hostility, it is time for India and Pakistan to live in peace as neighbors. This can only begin after Pakistan stops supporting terrorism in India.