Srinagar April 23 (KNS): There is overwhelming resentment and grief in Kashmir against this heinous act. Terrorism has no religion or justification. We, the people of Kashmir, stand in solidarity with the entire country, united in grief and sympathy. These attacks are an assault on our collective humanity and cannot be allowed to divide us on religious or communal lines.

The terror attack at Baisaran, Pahalgam, which claimed 28 lives—including that of a local pony rider from Anantnag—is a deeply unfortunate and tragic incident that has shaken the entire region of Jammu and Kashmir.

Violence serves no purpose and must be unequivocally condemned. Terrorists can not dictate terms to us and Such cowardly acts targeting innocent civilians have no place in any civilized society. The perpetrators must be identified and brought to justice without delay.

A poor Kashmiri pony rider from Anantnag also lost his life—reportedly while trying to save the tourists. In the aftermath, many Kashmiris came forward to donate blood for the injured. This clearly illustrates that the ordinary people of Kashmir have refused to fall prey to any efforts to rouse communal feelings.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThe act of a pony owner who was killed because he reportedly tried to save a tourist is symbolic of this.

The people of Kashmir, cutting across party lines, have expressed deep anguish. A series of protests, candlelight vigils, and shutdowns have been observed. Traders, businessmen, taxi operators, and political leaders alike have condemned the attack in one voice.

I urge the central government to re examine the security measures viz a viz Jammu and kashmir and ensure that such inhuman acts are not allowed to repeat.
Meanwhile at this hour of crises,the people should remain united and not fall prey to devisive and deceptive agenda of terrorists.

I had also sought permission from the authorities to visit the hospital to inquire about the condition of the injured tourists, but unfortunately, my request was denied.

This attack strikes at the very core of the Kashmiri ethos and the livelihoods of thousands, particularly those involved in the tourism sector. Tourism had been witnessing a revival, generating hope and economic activity across the region. Such an act is not just an assault on tourists but an attack on all of us.(KNS)