Unified protest erupts in Chamba

In a remarkable display of unity and solidarity, residents of Chamba district transcended religious and community lines to stage massive protests against the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The gruesome attack has triggered widespread outrage across the nation, and Chamba too witnessed emotional and powerful expressions of grief and anger.

Shutters remained down in markets across the district from 9 am to 12 noon, as traders and shopkeepers voluntarily closed their establishments to mourn the victims and express their support to the bereaved families. The three-hour shutdown was observed peacefully, with local organisations urging citizens to stand united in the face of such inhuman brutality.

In Chamba, members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and several other Hindu organizations took to the streets in large numbers. Holding placards and chanting slogans, they condemned the barbaric assault on tourists, demanding strong and immediate action from the central government.

Protest in Churah particularly saw joint participation of large number of members from both Hindu and Muslim communities, who came together to denounce terrorism in all its forms. “Terror has no religion,” said one protester, emphasising the need for collective resilience and compassion in the face of such tragedies. “We mourn the deaths of innocent people. This attack is not just against a community, but against humanity,” said a protester.

Similar demonstrations were held in Dalhousie, Salooni, and other major centres of the district, where protesters carried banners demanding justice for the victims and a firm stance against terror outfits.

Protesters also raised slogans against Pakistan, accusing it of harboring and supporting the terrorist networks responsible for the attack. They demanded the Centre take immediate steps to prevent such attacks and dismantle the infrastructure of terror operating across the border. “Enough is enough. We cannot allow such cowardly acts to continue. The Centre must send a strong message — both to terrorists and their handlers,” said another protester.

Overall, the protests remained peaceful and that no untoward incidents were reported. The police were deployed in key areas as a precautionary measure, but the events remained marked by calm determination and communal harmony.

Himachal Tribune