Silence observed at Jamia Masjid for Pahalgam victims

Worshippers at Kashmir’s historic Jamia Masjid on Friday observed a one-minute silence in solidarity with the families of the victims of this week’s Pahalgam terror attack, which left 26 people dead.

The tribute to the victims came as Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was allowed to deliver sermons and offer prayers at the mosque after a month.

During his Friday sermon, Mirwaiz condemned the brutal killings saying it was an “act beyond belief” and “totally unacceptable”.

“The killings have pierced our hearts. We heard that these people were first asked about their religious identities and then murdered in front of their families. This is an act beyond belief,” he said in his address to the congregation at the mosque.

He said the people of Jammu and Kashmir, irrespective of their religion, strongly condemn the killings. “Who understands the pain of losing their own better than the people of Kashmir? Who can feel the pain of the loved ones of those killed more than us? The incident has made our hearts bleed,” he said.

He said Kashmiris have always opened their hearts and homes to outsiders, especially tourists. “Known for our hospitality, people of Kashmir once again upheld the tradition of outreach, help and humanity in this distressing time. Locals helped tourists present at the spot to flee, even at the risk to their own lives, in which pony operator Adil Hussain lost his life,” said Mirwaiz.

“People of Jammu and Kashmir observed a complete shutdown and showed an example of solidarity and unity. They have sent a message that they oppose such cowardly acts and stand with the bereaved families,” he added.

Mirwaiz Farooq said it was unfortunate that a section of media was spreading hatred by giving a communal colour to the situation, resulting in “targeting of Kashmiris” in many states of the country. “Hundreds of students and businessmen are leaving those states. We appeal to the governments in other states of India to ensure to safeguard Kashmiris,” he said.

He also asked the authorities to allow him to visit the injured in hospitals and to the house of Adil Hussain to pay his condolences to the family of the braveheart.

J & K