In wake of terror attack, Pahalgam rallies for peace

Srinagar, Apr 22:
In a powerful display of unity and solidarity, people across Kashmir held candlelight marches to mourn the victims of the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam, South Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The tragic attack on Tuesday, which claimed multiple lives, including that of tourists, has shocked the region, prompting a wave of protests condemning violence and expressing grief for the victims.
In Pahalgam itself, hundreds of locals, including shopkeepers, ponywalas, hoteliers, and youth, gathered for a peaceful candlelight march. The march, which began at the town square, passed through the bustling market and culminated at the serene Lidder River. Participants carried placards bearing messages such as “We Stand for Peace” and “Tourists Are Our Guests.” At the river, a moment of silence was observed for the victims.
A local hotel owner shared, “Tourism is the backbone of our economy. The attack has hurt us all deeply. We are here to show the world that we stand united against violence. Pahalgam has always been a peaceful place, and we want to keep it that way.” Another resident, a young man involved in the tourism sector, emphasied, “We want to reassure tourists that they are safe here in Pahalgam. This senseless act of violence will not deter us. We condemn it in the strongest terms.”
The protests spread throughout Kashmir, with candlelight vigils organised in Srinagar, Sopore, Baramulla, Handwara, Kupwara, and other parts of North and South Kashmir. In Srinagar, residents gathered near Makkah Market, raising slogans such as “Stop Terrorism” and “We Stand for Peace.” One participant remarked, “Kashmir has always been known for its hospitality. The people here welcome tourists with open arms, and this attack does not represent us. We want peace, and we will fight for it.”
In Handwara, residents voiced both anger and resilience. “Terrorism has no place here. The people of Kashmir will not be intimidated. We stand with the tourists, and we will make sure that our beautiful valley remains a place of peace,” said a local resident.
The protests in Baramulla were particularly vocal, with people expressing outrage over the loss of innocent lives. A shopkeeper from Baramulla said, “This attack is an assault on our culture and livelihood. We stand with the families of the victims and call for justice.”
In Kupwara, where tourism is a significant source of livelihood, a local youth added, “Our valley is known for its beauty and hospitality. This attack was meant to harm us, but we will not let it define us. We are united, and together, we will overcome this.”
Across the valley, protesters emphasized that the attack was an attempt to destabilize the region’s efforts toward peace and tarnish its image as a tourist destination. Many stressed the need for a collective effort to combat terrorism and ensure that Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming place for all.
In Pahalgam, local activists also gathered for a solemn vigil, lighting candles in honor of the victims. As the youth and activists marched silently through the streets, the air was filled with both sorrow and resolve. The gathering sent a clear message: Pahalgam stands united against terror.
“This gathering is our voice — a peaceful response to the horror unleashed on our soil,” said a local youth. “We denounce this barbaric act with every ounce of our being. Whoever committed this must know: Pahalgam rejects violence.”
Imaad Mir, a social activist from Pahalgam, emphasised the town’s longstanding reputation as a symbol of harmony. “This isn’t just an attack on innocent lives — it’s an attack on the spirit of our community,” he said. “Pahalgam has always been a land of peace and brotherhood. We won’t allow terror to shake that foundation.”
Sofi Araft, another activist present at the vigil, delivered a poignant message on the devastating consequences of violence. “Those who choose violence may feel powerful for a moment, but the pain they leave behind is lifelong. Entire families, generations even, are left shattered,” he said. “The cycle of violence must end. If it doesn’t, no one escapes — not even those who cause it.”