Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], April 23 (ANI): A wave of grief and anger swept through Srinagar on Wednesday as citizens gathered outside the Police Control Room to protest the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, which left dozens dead and injured. The demonstrators denounced the violence, calling it not only a terrorist act but a deep wound to Kashmir’s ethos and humanity itself.
“This is mourning. All of Kashmir is mourning the death of humanity,” said one protester. “We love tourists. They are our life. If a bullet hits them, it strikes our hearts.”
Calling for unity and swift action, another demonstrator added, “Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Christian—this is about human life. Don’t point fingers. We have to fight this war together.”
Protesters emphasized that the attack was a direct blow to Kashmiriyat—the spirit of communal harmony and hospitality that has long defined the Valley. “In my sixty years, I have never seen such a black day. We haven’t eaten since yesterday. Our hearts are too heavy,” shared an elderly local.
Political leaders joined the voices of dissent and sorrow. Sunil Sharma, Leader of the Opposition in the J&K Legislative Assembly, condemned the assault as “a direct attack on humanity,” vowing that justice would be served. “People were here to enjoy, instead, they are being sent back in coffins,” he said.
Awami Ittehad Party leader Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh echoed the concern, warning that the attack aimed to destabilize Kashmir’s economy and fracture its fragile peace. “We want peace. We support the bandh in protest. We must ensure tourists continue to feel safe here,” he said.
Mehbooba Mufti, PDP chief and former J&K CM, joined the protest, holding a placard that read, “This is an attack on all of us.” She said, “This is not just an attack on tourists but on Kashmiriyat itself. We are ashamed, and we stand with the victims.”
The Dogra Front and various Hindu organizations, along with BJP leaders, also joined the protests, demanding justice and strict action.
In the meantime, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) continues to assist J&K Police in probing the incident. The attack, which occurred in the Baisaran valley near Pahalgam, is being called one of the deadliest on civilians since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019.
As Kashmir reels from the shock, the collective call from citizens, leaders, and officials is clear: unite for humanity, preserve peace, and hold the culprits accountable. (ANI)
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