Onlykashmir.in News Desk
In a heartfelt and strongly worded statement, Kashmir’s Chief Cleric and Hurriyat Conference Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has condemned the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed over two dozen lives, calling it a “chilling and shocking act of carnage.” Speaking on the 36th martyrdom anniversary of his father, Shaheed-e-Millat Mirwaiz Molvi Mohammad Farooq, the Mirwaiz expressed deep anguish and solidarity with the victims’ families.
“We had to witness a terrifying incident which has left our hearts bleeding,” he said. “The manner in which a carnage was carried out, more than two dozen people killed after ascertaining their identities and in front of their families, is shocking and chilling beyond belief. We strongly condemn it.”
Drawing parallels with the pain that Kashmiris have endured for decades, Mirwaiz added, “Who better can understand the grief of those families than a people who themselves have suffered it for generations and continue to suffer it even today?”
He acknowledged the martyrdom of pony operator Adil Hussain, who lost his life while helping tourists escape the attack. “We pay homage to this brave young Kashmiri who gave the ultimate sacrifice while saving the lives of others,” he said, adding that locals rushed to help the injured, some even carrying them on their backs for miles to reach hospitals.
Highlighting the resilience and humanity shown by the people of Kashmir, Mirwaiz said, “Kashmiris once again upheld the tradition of hospitality and compassion. Videos of tourists thanking locals for shelter, food, and free transport are testimony to the spirit of Kashmir.”
He noted that spontaneous shutdowns, silent protests, and candlelight vigils were held across the Valley to mourn the victims and denounce violence.
However, Mirwaiz expressed grave concern over the communal narrative emerging in parts of the Indian media. “Mainstream media’s rhetoric of hate has made Kashmiris across India vulnerable,” he said, pointing out that many Kashmiri students and professionals were being forced to leave cities amid growing insecurity. “I appeal to the concerned governments in different states to ensure the safety of our students and all Kashmiris.”
A one-minute silence was observed in solidarity of the Pahalagam Terrorist Attack victims
