Mohd Irfan
In the aftermath of the recent terror attack that claimed the lives of innocent civilians in the scenic tourist destination of Pahalgam, a wave of grief, anger, and condemnation has swept through the valley. The usually vibrant resort town now wears a deserted look, as locals observed a complete shutdown to mourn the victims and express their solidarity with the bereaved families.
The bustling markets that teemed with tourists just days ago now lie silent. Hotels and businesses have voluntarily closed their doors, not under any pressure from security forces, but as a mark of collective mourning and protest.
Speaking to the media, locals expressed profound shock and sorrow over the barbaric incident that took place in Baisaran Valley—fondly referred to as “Mini Switzerland” for its breathtaking beauty. “This is a peaceful place that has always welcomed guests with open arms. Such violence has no place here,” said a local resident, his voice choked with emotion. “We’ve seen unrest in the past, but never something so brutal and inhumane.”
Several residents urged the tourists currently in Pahalgam to return home temporarily for their safety. “This attack is not just on tourists—it is an assault on Kashmiriyat, our culture of hospitality, and our livelihood,” said another local, lamenting the blow to Pahalgam’s tourism-driven economy. “Hotels that were fully booked until just a day before are now completely empty.”
Locals condemned the attack in the strongest terms, stressing that the perpetrators do not represent any religion or humanity. “The Holy Quran says: ‘If anyone kills an innocent person, it is as if he has killed all of humanity.’ Those responsible must face justice, and their identity must be revealed to the public,” a resident emphasized.
There were calls for intervention from the highest levels of government. Locals appealed to the Prime Minister, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and other leaders to ensure that justice is delivered swiftly and transparently. “We want the culprits punished publicly. Let the world see that Kashmiris reject terrorism and stand united for peace.”
In a particularly emotional moment, a local horseman who witnessed the incident shared how a fellow horse rider tried to intervene and protect tourists but tragically lost his life. “Our own were ready to die protecting guests. One of our brave horsemen even attempted to disarm the attacker,” he recounted.
Sketches of the suspected assailants have reportedly been released, and security forces are working diligently to track down those responsible. The identity and origin of the attackers remain under investigation, but the resolve among the people of Pahalgam is clear: they want peace, and they want justice. Across Kashmir, there has been widespread mourning and condemnation, with social media flooded with visuals of candlelight protests and tearful gatherings.
“This attack shook the very soul of Kashmir,” said another local. “But it has also united us in grief, in outrage, and in our commitment to stand against violence.” Despite the fear the incident may instill, locals sent a clear message to prospective visitors: “Don’t be afraid to come to Kashmir. We will protect you with our lives. This is your second home, and you are always welcome here.”
