J&K Political Parties Unite to Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack, Back April 23 Kashmir Bandh
After the deadly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, political parties across Jammu and Kashmir have come together to support a shutdown and express solidarity with the victims' families.
Key Highlights:
Pahalgam Terror Attack has triggered a rare moment of political unity in Jammu and Kashmir, with all major parties condemning the brutal incident and extending full support to a Kashmir Bandh (shutdown) on April 24, 2025, to mourn the victims and protest against the violence. The terror attack in Anantnag’s Pahalgam area, which claimed the lives of five tourists from Maharashtra, has sparked outrage not only within the union territory but across the nation.
J&K Political Leadership Speaks in One Voice
The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) issued a strong appeal to the public to support the bandh. In a statement on X, the party said,
“On the instruction of the Party President, JKNC joins the collective call for a bandh in strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack. We appeal to the people of J&K to ensure the hartal called by religious and social leaders is a complete success.”
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti called the attack an “assault on all of us” and urged Kashmiris to join the shutdown in unity. She posted:
“This isn’t just an attack on a select few—it is an attack on all of us. We strongly support this shutdown to condemn the massacre of innocents.”
Pahalgam Terror Attack: United Call for Shutdown Across Religious, Political, and Civil Bodies
The All Parties Hurriyat Conference, through its Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also supported the bandh, quoting the Quran in his condemnation:
“Whoever kills an innocent soul… it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.”
He urged for peaceful protests and added that the Islamic fraternity must stand against such crimes.
The Jammu-Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) echoed similar sentiments, calling the terror incident “an assault on the very soul of Jammu & Kashmir” and publicly backing the Kashmir Bandh.
The Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) leader Abdul Majid Wani also demanded justice and urged both state and central governments to extend full support to victims’ families:
“No religion permits violence. The perpetrators must be brought to justice, and victims’ families supported unconditionally.”
Candlelight Marches and Public Mourning Across Kashmir
Beyond political statements, residents of Baramulla, Srinagar, Kupwara, and Poonch participated in candlelight marches to grieve the loss of innocent lives. Similar protests were seen in Jammu’s Khod village and outside government institutions where the public gathered to express anger and sorrow.
In Jammu, Bajrang Dal members staged demonstrations calling for decisive action against the perpetrators.
Government Response and Security Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the attack and promised justice:
“Our resolve to fight terrorism is unshakeable. Those behind this heinous act will not be spared.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired a high-level security review in Srinagar. The Indian Army and J&K Police launched a joint search operation in the Baisaran region of Pahalgam to track down the attackers.
Delhi Police was also placed on high alert, especially around tourist sites and sensitive locations.
What This Means for You
- Residents of J&K: Expect shutdowns and security checks on April 23. Stay informed via local administration updates.
- Tourists: Follow government advisories and avoid travel to volatile zones for the time being.
- Political Observers: This united response reflects the shifting narrative where regional parties condemn terror in one voice.
How to Take Action
- Join peaceful protests or candlelight vigils if organized in your area.
- Avoid spreading misinformation on social media—share verified updates only.
- Support local families and businesses affected by the shutdown.
Who Will Be Affected
- Tourism Sector: With the incident targeting visitors, there may be cancellations and heightened concern in the coming weeks.
- Security Forces: A heightened operational alert has been declared for Anantnag and adjoining districts.
- Political Establishments: Unified condemnation puts pressure on central and UT governments to swiftly act against the perpetrators.
Widespread Condemnation Signals Kashmir’s Pain and Unity
The Pahalgam terror attack has shaken the conscience of Jammu and Kashmir. For once, regional political lines have blurred, and civil society has united in grief and outrage. While the region continues to battle militancy, this incident may serve as a turning point—one that galvanizes public demand for peace and accountability.
As Kashmir braces for the April 23 Bandh, the message is loud and clear: terrorism has no place in society, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir will not be silenced in the face of brutality.
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