Historic shutdown and protests against Pahalgam massacre by Islamist terrorists
jj correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 23 – In an unprecedented show of unity and outrage, the Kashmir Valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday to mourn and condemn the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 28 civilians, including 27 tourists and a local resident. For the first time in over three decades of militancy, widespread civil, political, and religious consensus converged against terrorism in the Valley.
The attack, carried out in the picturesque Baisaran meadow of Anantnag district, triggered mass protests across Kashmir. Shops, schools, markets, and public transport shut down entirely in Srinagar and major towns, as people poured into the streets with placards and black flags demanding justice. Despite the large gatherings, the day passed peacefully, with no incidents of violence reported.
The shutdown was called by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, head of Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), and received wide support from trade bodies, civil society, transport unions, and mainstream political parties such as the National Conference (NC) and People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Voices of Conscience: Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti led a silent march to Ghanta Ghar, Lal Chowk, where she expressed deep remorse. “We are ashamed. This attack is against our culture, our values, and everything Kashmiriyat stands for,” she told reporters, urging the government to act swiftly and decisively against the perpetrators.
From the National Conference, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Wani, led a protest march with participation from Omar Abdullah’s sons, Zamir and Zahir, emphasizing the deep emotional and cultural impact of the attack. “Killing innocent guests is a stain on our identity of hospitality,” said NC spokesperson Imran Dar.
Unified Political Front: The BJP also joined the protests, with its J&K unit chief Sat Sharma and senior leader Ashok Koul leading a demonstration under the banners “Down with Terrorism” and “Stop Killing Innocents.” The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) observed a two-minute silence in their party headquarters, mourning the lives lost and calling for justice.
Candlelight vigils lit up the evening skies across towns and cities, symbolizing the collective grief of the region. Students, scholars, and journalists also added their voices-Kashmir University held a peaceful protest on campus, and several local newspapers printed black front pages as a mark of solidarity.
Jammu Echoes Kashmir’s Pain: Parallel to the Valley, Jammu observed a total shutdown. Massive anti-Pakistan protests erupted in various districts, with demonstrators expressing solidarity with the victims and demanding stern action against terrorism.
All-Party Call for Unity: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, describing the tragedy as a “wound on the soul of Jammu & Kashmir,” announced an all-party meeting scheduled for Thursday at SKICC, Srinagar. In personal letters to political leaders including his father, Farooq Abdullah, Omar called for collective deliberation to ensure peace and justice.
“This is not a tragedy confined to a region-it is a collective wound. Let us unite, beyond politics, to forge a response that reflects our shared strength,” the CM wrote.
Looking Ahead: The attack, which marks the deadliest such incident since the abrogation of Article 370, has shaken the conscience of the people and the leadership alike. The rare unity displayed across societal lines signals a shifting narrative in Kashmir-one that rejects violence, embraces peace, and demands accountability.
Security has been heightened across sensitive locations, and officials confirm a high-level investigation is underway to track down those responsible for the heinous act.
As Kashmir grieves, it also stands defiant-reclaiming its voice, values, and its long-lost peace.
