Protests over Pahalgam attack continue across Kashmir

Leaders appeal for safety of Kashmiri students

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 24: Protests against the recent Pahalgam terror attack continued across Kashmir for the second consecutive day today, with demonstrators strongly condemning what they called an “inhuman act against Kashmiris.”

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In Srinagar, the iconic clock tower at Lal Chowk once again became the focal point of protests. Several groups gathered at the site, raising slogans and carrying placards that read, “Attackers are not among us,” “We condemn the attack,” “United for Peace,” and “Pahalgam, we mourn.” Protesters paid tribute to the bravery of local residents who helped rescue injured tourists during the attack and urged people across the country to stop harassing Kashmiri students and businessmen.
The attack in Pahalgam left 26 tourists and a local tourist guide dead after militants opened fire on a group of tourists at Baisaran meadow.
Employees under the Prime Minister’s Employment Package also held a peaceful protest at Lal Chowk. “This is a peaceful demonstration to condemn the Pahalgam attack. Our Muslim brothers were among the first to help the injured tourists. We urge the Government to take strict measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” one protester said.
Another participant emphasized communal harmony. “People of all faiths are united in this moment of grief. We must collectively fight against such forces to ensure a peaceful society,” he said. Reacting to the Government’s recent advisory asking them to work from home for safety reasons, he added, “We want a safe and secure environment so we can work from our designated offices, not from home.”
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry thanked the public for observing a shutdown to protest what it called the “dastardly” attack. “This is not about economic losses. We are united in condemning this violence. It has no place in Kashmir,” KCCI president, Javeed Ahmad Tenga, said. He also appealed to the government to ensure the safety of Kashmiri students and businessmen across India.
The Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) also staged a protest at the Press Enclave in Srinagar against the Pahalgam attack. “We condemn the attack, and whoever has done this is the enemy of all humanity. They are portraying a wrong image of the Valley and should desist from it. For the first time, the entire valley has collectively condemned this attack. The Government must ensure the safety of Kashmiri students and businessmen across the country, as some unscrupulous elements are targeting them,” Sajjad Parray, president Casual Workers Association, said.
Similar protests erupted in other parts of the Valley. The Handwara Fruit Growers Association called the attack an act of terrorism that would damage the region’s economy. “The tourists came here for peace, and killing innocent people is against our religion,” a protester said, assuring tourists of support and protection.
Students from the Government Degree College for Women in Anantnag also held a protest, demanding stringent punishment for the perpetrators. “Why did this happen? Who is responsible? Everything must come to light. We Kashmiris are completely against such violence,” a student said.
The political leaders across party lines in Jammu and Kashmir united to condemn the violence and appeal for the safety of Kashmiri students and traders living elsewhere in the country.
Mehbooba Mufti also urged the Home Minister to intervene without delay to ensure the safety and protection of these vulnerable communities, wherever such incidents are being reported. “The Kashmiri diaspora should not have to bear the brunt of this tragedy through threats and harassment. I have requested Amit Shah to take immediate action to safeguard our students and traders, ensuring they can live and work without fear,” she said.
CPI(M) leader Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami expressed grief over the killings, calling the incident “an assault on Kashmir’s culture and identity.” He said Kashmiris have historically been known for their hospitality and that those responsible for the attack do not represent the local population. “This is not just an attack on innocent tourists; it is also an attack on the livelihood of our people – hoteliers, drivers, and shopkeepers,” Tarigami said, urging the nation to differentiate between terrorists and ordinary Kashmiris.
PDP leader Iltija Mufti, while visiting injured survivors at GMC Anantnag, strongly condemned the attack and appealed for unity. “We want peace in Jammu and Kashmir and in the rest of India. This is Gandhi’s India. There is no place for such barbarity,” she said.
Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma, who visited an injured from Gujarat, called the incident “Black Monday” and warned of “hidden forces” trying to disrupt India’s peace. “We must stand united. We are one nation. These efforts to create communal tension will not succeed,” he said.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed deep concern over reports and videos showing Kashmiri students being attacked outside Jammu and Kashmir in the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident. Terming the attacks “deeply disturbing,” Mirwaiz said the fear and distress among Kashmiris, especially students, is alarming. He urged the concerned authorities to intervene immediately and ensure the safety and protection of all Kashmiris outside.

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